Grand Cru Edition 2023

This is a Dangerous Beer (in the best way).

I hear the strains of summer jazz; of beer gardens in my ears upon smelling this. Summer has come again; there is light descending through my window panes. Yet wait…why am I still wearing my winter woolies?... Wait, are those hailstones? How can it feel so right to drink such a sun-drenched beer and experience such a vibe through such a damp Dutch March?

This 2023 Edition Grand Cru is to blame. A beautiful Weizenbock aged on Mestrazat (Bordeaux) barrels has made me lose my bearings, but I’m not sure I’d have it any other way.

It smells light, with caramel and I have no trouble believing it was a red wine barrel-aged beer before tasting. Then the experience begins; a surprisingly light body with all the creaminess, hazy brightness and mild banana flavour I’d expect of a Weizenbock- every note just a little deeper than it would be in a Weizen. Intermingled is the tannin sweetness and body of a beautiful red wine, with sherry-like notes hitting at the finish, though still with an enchanting lightness. The wine barrels and beer play off each other beautifully- each introducing a little bitterness, sweetness, body, and lightness exactly where the other lacks and creating an enchanting brew. It’s in this sweet spot that normal mix drinks (kalimotxo or sangria, even Weinschorles and kirs) play, and to have abeer play along with some beautiful barrels and reach the same space in terms of taste- it’s a treat to behold for beer lovers who have rarely seen such concoctions.

Why do I say this is a dangerous beer?.It is superbly drinkable and effervescent, not to mention subtle, and has a light body which makes it easily drinkable and more-ish, while still having a satisfying weight. I would honestly barely notice it’s 10%. To this, with some olives and bread, in a rainy March or in a sunny July, I can only say: yes please!

Cheers!