Saturday, January 31, 2015

Van Steenberge - Monk's Cafe 6.5 (8 oz)


I'm very excited to add this fantastic sour to Contigo's tap list. Exported and labeled for Monk's Cafe in Philadelphia, Van Steenberge brews and sells this beer as "Bios Vlaamse Bourgogne" in the rest of the world. This is a perfect introduction to sours in the same way that Firemans #4 is a great introduction to craft beer. Although the lactobacillus (souring wild yeast) is apparent,  sweet, woody, and tart cherry notes balance very nicely on the palate. I would describe this beer as complex and inviting, a beveridge to be enjoyed with spice and fats.

Style: Sour Red/Brown   Oud Bruin

ABV: 5.5%

Description:Brewed for Monk's Café in Philadelphia, but also available for retail purchase elsewhere. Oud Bruin in style; a traditional blend of young and old beers. Light bodied with a lactic/sour nose and a bit of sweet at the finish.

Review:
A- Dark maroon/brown/red color. Lots of sediment! Khaki head. Was big when poured down the center of the glass, but died to one fingers worth.
S- Vinegar and lactic sourness. Dark raisin, plum, or fig type smell. Yeasty, earthy, funkiness. Light biscuit notes as well.
T- Great beginner sour ale for sure. Tart and lightly sour. It does have that yeasty, earthy funk. Not over the top at all. Dark fruits as well. Everything is done very lightly (as light as a sour beer can be).
M- Medium towards light bodied. Slight oily slickness is detected, but it mellows out a great deal in the finish.

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