Duchesse De Bourgogne, A Lovely Taste
May 10, 2009
Each and every time I stroll through the many isles of Total Wine & Spirits, I cannot help but taste a new Belgium beer. There are so many unique single bottle options available, though I love my classics I always love to indulge in new tastes.
During my last visit, a new bottle caught my eye called “Duchesse De Bourgogne” which is also known as “The Burgundies of Belgium”. It fed into my curiosity and so a taste was needed.
Immediately upon opening and pouring, the first smell is strong of dark molasses. It reminded me of childhood when I would wander into the kitchen and smell the delicious spices of freshly baked dark gingerbread. Rarely do I get to indulge in such a wonderful smell, and with this beer the tone was perfect. So beautiful and reminiscent, I longed for my first taste.
Duchesse de Bourgogne is a reddish-brown ale from the West Flanders region of Belgium, top fermented, and carefully matured in oak casts.
It is purely natural and unpasteurized, leaving a full clean and beautiful taste. The aroma and tastes returned me to my loves of childhood, but in a grown up and matured fashion. It is so lovely and pure, and elegantly presented. The texture is light to medium and balances well against the fragrance of the nose.
I purchased a small bottle here for a first taste, but am anxious to try it again in it’s full bottle- cork included, naturally. I love the stylings of a Belgium beer, and this one is a lovely discovery.
If you have a love for dark and rich freshly baked gingerbread- this beer will take you back and reward your taste buds lovingly. I definitely recommend it and look forward to another taste!
Foamy & Creamy Tastes of Belgium
March 11, 2009
Although my favorite beers are dark beers (especially the black ones like Kostritzer), occasionally I will want something on the lighter side that is only slightly crisp, but still rich with texture and flavor. When I first tasted the St. Sebastiaan Dark I was in love- the bottle is so charming and the taste did not disappoint. It was rich and reminded me of gingerbread (which I love) and is one I will definitely be having again.
I noticed St. Sebastiaan also offered a Grand Cru in a similar ceramic bottle; naturally I chose to indulge. I was very curious to see what else they could provide as the dark bottle was so wonderful.
Wow, what a creamy and foamy head on a slightly pale pour. I could bathe in those bubbles, I love how rich they look. And it is indeed very creamy in texture - not like anything I’ve really had before, and as unexpected as it was it made for a lovely drink. Perfect for that in-between mood when dark and heavy isn’t what you are craving but light is just too light. And the bottle it comes in is an absolute delight.
I’d recommend both for a lovely tasting, beginning with the grand cru and following with the dark for the full experience to see what you like best, if not both. I like to keep different tastes, styles, and textures in mind for the different moods of an evening or occasion, and both of these make for a yummy treat.
Winter Ale Love, Christmas With St. Berardus
March 3, 2009
Maybe it’s the cool weather outside that has me thinking of Christmas all over again, but I had a lovely evening with St. Berardus the other night.
And I always do, but this was my first taste of the Christmas Ale. I purchased the bottle over the holiday season and never got around to opening it. Most Belgian ales do well to age like wine, so part of me thought to keep it for later on in the year. Well, with these cool temperatures outside I felt inspired to give it a go.
Delighted I did, too! Just look at this pour… I love the little bits of texture found in this bottle- so yummy and a special treat.
Isn’t it beautiful? Oh, I love it!
So dreamy, and the taste is wonderful- very much like Christmas. The blend of spices are rich and cozy, you could even see a few specs in the foam once it poured. The label makes me smile every time, too. It is marvelous.
St. Bernardus makes fabulous ales, and I am enjoying this special treat. When Christmas comes again, you know what will be on my list.
Champagne Ale, Anyone?
February 5, 2009
Or should I say Bierre Brut? Might sound a bit more glamorous, haha. What an interesting find, hope you didn’t think all beer was the same (how could you!) because you are about to be surprised.
When I first saw the bottle in the store, I thought it was on the wrong shelf. There were only two of them in all and the bottle looked like your traditional champagne bottle. Deifnitely stands out among the much smaller beer bottles.
Belgian? Ale? Champagne? YES, it definitely qualifies for a taste. Besides, I always love an extra special reason to celebrate, and what better way than with a drink. Cheers.
I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect, but I must say it definitely is a balance of both. Brewed with Barley, Deus is fermented and matured in Belgium, refermented in the bottle and then is followed by the traditional “remuage” and “degorgement” in Champagne, France.
It pours with a very light golden color- has the bubbly action of a champagne and the head of a belgian beer- even breaks up in the same manner. What a marvelous thing!
It is very sweet- much sweeter than I was expecting and so makes for quite the dessert! Though it is sweeter than my usual liking, I must admit it starts to grow on you making you want more. A little is honestly all you need with with this flavorful concoction, also making it a perfect dessert for a celebration. I used my chimay chalice glasses, which I felt was appropriate for the occasion, though a flute would also be suitable. The texture is lovely and a fun experience over all. Champagne and beer- how can you not have fun?
It tastes of pears, honey, and spice most prominently for me, with hints of an apple tartness as well. I love the hint of tart in the finish, adds that bite I love to round out the sweetness.
Fun, love a new drink for a fabulous toast!
Vuuve, A Bottle With Spice & Charm
January 31, 2009
In the search of more delicious beers made in Belgium, every so often there will be something that catches my eye hidden amongs the many bottles of the store. Just look at this little bottle, it is so charming!
It was hidden behind the post that divides the shelves, and there were only a few. The label is quite simple as its description. Looking through the bottle- and seeing that I very well could not look through it, I was sold. It is just asking for a tasting, so I will bite.
Beautiful! The texture is smooth and lovely and the spice is quite welcoming- nothing overbearing either. Very nice balance, just melts in your mouth delicious.
Ingredients are simple: barley malt, wheat malt hops, coriander and fresh orange peel- also known as the spice of this beer. Goes lovely together without anything else getting in the way. Am delighted with this purchase and will definitely seek it out again, such a grand treat!
See if you can find this charming little bottle, you will be pleased you did.
The Latest Belgian Beauty
January 16, 2009
What could be more wonderful than a luxurious abbey ale? I love my Belgian beers, and with good reason seeing as they are the best, in my opinion of course. Last night I finally was able to taste one in particular I have had an eye on for quite a while. And this one is making my favorite’s list without question.
It is the bottle that caught my attention this time- I love it. So cool to the touch with that unique texture, makes me feel at home. When I was a child, I remember actually having a water bottle of this same material. Keeps the contents extra cool and at just the right temperature. So now I have moved from a water bottle to beer, it is good to have both most likely. It does make things quite fun.
St. Sebastiaan Dark is a dark top-fermented abbey ale brewed according to the purity law of 1516. Old and true like so many of its Belgian brothers. They all have this velvety malty sort of texture that is filled with a luscious flavor- each beer having its own distinct taste.
This one, with a smell of spice and caramel has a slightly bitter sweet bite to it that is marvelous. Honestly, when I first tasted it, Gingerbread came instantly to mind. And I do love gingerbread. It works wonderfully in this form- so delicious! I cannot wait to purchase another.
Seriously, like dark gingerbread- so heavenly.
They have some other styles and tastes I will have to try from them; dark is usually my favorite so I grabbed it first naturally. I think the Grand Cru will be next on my list.
A gorgeous bottle with the contents to match- so fabulous. I would have been disappointed if it wasn’t anything other than great. My Belgian beers never let me down though, so all is well and better than ever.
This is a must try- loves! And what perfect timing, a taste right before my birthday. May have to try the other tomorrow in celebration, who knows.
Fabulous Framboise Lambic Belgium Beer
January 3, 2009
MMmmm, simply marvelous! From its rich velvety texture to its luscious fruit flavors, sometimes I just have to indulge into my Lambic cravings.
Now, I’ll admit I am a bit bias in my admiration for Belgium Beers, it is in my family name after all. But this one is a love even for the non beer drinker.
I was craving dessert this evening, something in a beverage but not quite a martini- when suddenly I ran into it and remembered the lambics. Seen here in raspberry, this malty beverage comes in many fruit filled flavors (Lindemans carries cassis/black currant, pomme/apple, kriek/cherry, peche/peach, you name it and they are all quite wonderful).
It is a good balance that comes together beautifully.
I don’t know what it is with me and beers with corks, but somehow it seems to be a recurring theme! This one in particular actually has a cap on top of the cork which is quite rare. It is all covered with a richly colored foil that best matches its fruit flavor.
It is made from local barley, unmalted wheat, and wild yeast. Raspberries are added after spontaneous fermentation creating a secondary fermentation which yields exceptional flavor and complexity in this beer.
It is a must try for anyone!
A Seasonal Pretty Delight For A Happy Repeal Day
December 5, 2008
First off- I like my beers one of two ways, either like my coffee- black, or simply Belgium. Though you probably know this from me by now, haha.
I was only recently introduced to this one, and it is unique in every way- in fact, it isn’t even available for most of the year. This is Delirium’s seasonal Noel Belgium beer, and it is just as lovely as Christmas!
The pink elephant on ski’s (and even pulling Santa’s sleigh) is perfect- so charming and matches the slight pink shade of the beer itself. Do not be alarmed, it is extremely lovely. It has a nice crisp spiciness to it that you want in a winter beverage, but still the solid quality you want in a beer.
And how cute is that bottle- looks even lovelier in the glass! It was too dark to get the color anywhere near noticeable in the photos, so you will have to see this one for yourself.
What a joy and special holiday treat to indulge in! And today being repeal day makes it all the more wonderful and appreciated taste.
Happy Repeal Day, everyone! What are you doing to celebrate?
Grand Cru Lambic Cuvee Rene Yumminess
December 4, 2008
To me, it is like the Brussels Champagne- almost like a raw champagne even. I’ve written to you about Belgium Lambic beer in the past, but this one is especially unique.
It goes through a second fermentation in the bottle, and the yeast factor is definitely present. I personally like that taste and texture, though it isn’t for everyone. It is all about drinking what you like, and for me it is heavenly.
This one is nothing like the usual fruit filled Lindemans Lambics, this one is completely raw- like a raw champagne. It is not so much like a beer than it is a wine almost, it even does better with age. It is not uncommon to store Belgium beers for several years to appreciate at a later time- they age extremely well.
They are generally served in the tall thin glasses as in the photo below (most bars that serve lambics have the specially designed glasses) but at home the best I have at the moment are my chimay glasses which I think works lovely with this one- it is almost like a champagne goblet and this being a Brussels champagne like beverage, it does beautifully.
P.S. What are you doing for Repeal Day? Am getting ready for it myself with a very special drink! I’ll show it to you tomorrow 
Find Your Number, Imbibers One Hundred
November 28, 2008
I discovered this list first from Cigar Smoking Man and had to do the same. This is a list originally posted by ART OF DRINK and is really quite a fun little list! I encourage you to compare your own experiences to this list thus far.
This list isn’t all encompassing, nor is it a “good stuff only” list. There are a few things that may make you pause. In most cases the list is not brand specific, but for certain things it is, because of the world wide popularity. Feel free to participate, or not, but it is a good exercise to see what you are missing in life.
Remember, this is just a list of things you should try, not the “best of the world” list. The list is about contrast and variation of flavour. I’m sure a few scotch addict’s, vodkaphiles and beeroholics will recommend a particular brand, but in most cases, this list is style specific, instead of brand specific. But please feel free to make recommendations.
Instructions:
1) Copy this list into your blog, with instructions.
2) Bold all the drinks you’ve imbibed.
3) Cross out any items that you won’t touch
4) Post a comment at Art of Drink, and link to your results.
OR
If you don’t have a blog, just count the ones you’ve tried and post the number in the comments section.
List of Drinks You Must Try Before You Expire
1. Manhattan Cocktail
2. Kopi Luwak (Weasle Coffee)
3. French / Swiss Absinthe
4. Rootbeer
5. Gin Martini
6. Sauternes
7. Whole Milk
8. Tequila (100% Agave)
9. XO Cognac
10. Espresso
11. Spring Water (directly from the spring)
12. Gin & Tonic
13. Mead
14. Westvleteren 12 (Yellow Cap) Trappist Ale (I’ve had many Trappist Ales, love them- have not had this one yet!)
15. Chateau d’Yquem
16. Budwieser
17. Maraschino Liqueur
18. Mojito
19. Orgeat
20. Grand Marnier
21. Mai Tai (original)
22. Ice Wine (Canadian) (and eiswein German)
23. Red Bull
24. Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice
25. Bubble Tea
26. Tokaji
27. Chicory
28. Islay Scotch
29. Pusser’s Navy Rum
30. Fernet Branca
31. Fresh Pressed Apple Cider
32. Bourbon
33. Australian Shiraz
34. Buckley’s Cough Syrup
35. Orange Bitters
36. Margarita (classic recipe)
37. Molasses & Milk
38. Chimay Blue
39. Wine of Pines (Tepache)
40. Green Tea
41. Daiginjo Sake
42. Chai Tea
43. Vodka (chilled, straight)
44. Coca-Cola
45. Zombie (Beachcomber recipe)
46. Barley Wine
47. Brewed Choclate (Xocolatl)
48. Pisco Sour
49. Lemonade
50. Speyside Single Malt
51. Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee
52. Champagne (Vintage)
53. Rosé (French)
54. Bellini
55. Caipirinha
56. White Zinfandel (Blush)
57. Coconut Water
58. Cerveza
59. Cafe au Lait
60. Ice Tea
61. Pedro Ximenez Sherry
62. Vintage Port
63. Hot Chocolate
64. German Riesling
65. Pina Colada
66. El Dorado 15 Year Rum
67. Chartreuse
68. Greek Wine
69. Negroni
70. Jägermeister
71. Chicha
72. Guiness
73. Rhum Agricole
74. Palm Wine
75. Soju
76. Ceylon Tea (High Grown)
77. Belgian Lambic
78. Mongolian Airag
79. Doogh, Lassi or Ayran
80. Sugarcane Juice
81. Ramos Gin Fizz
82. Singapore Sling
83. Mint Julep
84. Old Fashioned
85. Perique
86. Jenever (Holland Gin)
87. Chocolate Milkshake
88. Traditional Italian Barolo
89. Pulque
90. Natural Sparkling Water
91. Cuban Rum
92. Asti Spumante
93. Irish Whiskey
94. Château Margaux
95. Two Buck Chuck
96. Screech
97. Akvavit
98. Rye Whisky
99. German Weissbier
100. Daiquiri (classic)
Hmmm, about 59/100. There is much more to be done, how exciting!
Kostritzer, Mmm I like my beer like my coffee: BLACK
August 26, 2008
I am quite particular when it comes to my beers, though I often find myself rewarded for it. By far, Black lager is a favorite of mine. Kostritzer is everything I love in a black lager in one convenient and pretty bottle.
Don’t think me a snob- I will try any beer at least once (usually a sip of another person’s so I am not dedicated to it) and am open to other styles. Belgium ales are consistent choice for me as I love my Blue Label Chimay. The Trappists know what they are doing. But that is another entry altogether. More on that one later.
Ooh, the Kostritzer though! Look how lovely it looks on its own- so delicious.
For its rich and dark appearance, it has a surprisingly light and clean finish (nothing like a loaf of bread others may offer). It has a delicious malty texture to it as well, but again quite surprisingly light in body. It certainly has body, don’t be misinformed- it is such a nice balance.
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This is a special treat for me, as I have only been able to find it at this restaurant we go to in Sarasota when we visit my fiance’s father. It makes it that much more of a treat to enjoy it in great company.
If you see this one around let me know and try it for yourself. Even if you *think* it may not be your thing, it is always worth a taste to see for sure. Who knows, it could be your new favorite, too!
Much love and divine tastes, xx
