Back again with another offering, this time from Belgium specifically from the Ardenne. www.achouffe.be (check out the theme song... yes the beer has a theme song!) La Chouffe (better known as "the gnome" in English) is a strong, 8% ABV golden blonde that is re-fermented in the bottle, and crown cap sealed in a "Champagne style" bottle (including a punt!). The beer pours pale gold with a crisp white head, which later gives way to a delicate lacing down the inside of the glass. The first sniff brings an herbaceousness, plenty of herbs and grasses. There is also a grapey and wine note that makes me wonder if the beer was made or finished with a champagne yeast. Sipping reveals coriander with a smooth transition into bread and grains. Aeration enhances the wine and brandy notes with a slight woody texture reminiscent of a whiskey. A touch of vanilla is evident in the background.
Taste: Pass
Cost: Pass ($6.95 per 750ml bottle)
Colour: Pass (a tad light for a golden blonde)
Beer Style: Pass
Re-order: Exceptional (easy drinking, light, and refreshing just watch out the 8% doesn't sneak up on you. The bottles are big for SHARING... we remember sharing don't we?)
Experience: Pass
Next up 16 year old Ola Dubh!
Cheers
CJT
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