La Chouffe: Review

Artisanal Belgian Golden Ale Brewed with Spice

8% abv

1pt 9.4oz bottle

$12.00 a bottle

Brasserie D’Achouffe

Belgium

Appearance: I’ll tell you it is hard not to pour a two finger head with a Belgian beer.  A beautiful two finger white shaving cream head and this baby has staying power.  A nice fuzzy golden body color.  When I got to the bottom of the glass there was still a thin layer of head and tons of lacing on the glass. 

Aroma: Belgian yeast, touch of coriander spice, fairly pleasing bouquet.

Flavors: the coriander is soft and pleasing, the English Golding and Saaz hops are rich and mild, the pilsner malts are sweet yet well balanced, sweet herbal likeness.

Halfway through the bottle the sweet spices seem like a touch of cinnamon and a hint of clove.  The nose of coriander is maintained but as the glass is moved away there seems to be some other sweet spices on the palate. 

Mouthfeel: the acidity and bitterness is low, sweet grassy linger note, light, smooth and oily texture.  The ale seems to have a flat champagne carbonation feel.  Come to think of it … it has a flat champagne like taste at times.  Since it is not champagne that is okay. 

My Strength Rating: 4/3.5 – I have never had this ale before but, I find it very pleasing and interesting. 

To the Point: I don’t think I can give it an A but, an A- or B+, let’s call it 90%, right on the edge.  This would be perfect for a hot summer day … if summer ever gets here this year. 

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