Sunday 27 May 2012

Pius X

Created in 2003 by the son of "local Bruges history" chairman Chris Weymeys - Pius X is still brewed 3 times a year, a co-operation between brewmaster Wim Saeyens from De Graal and locals Kristof and Nicholas.

This magnificent and mighty beer pours a really attractive murky deep amber, topped by a dense, thick, rich and creamy white head that ever so slowly fades to thin covering.

Beautiful sweet caramel aroma coupled with biscuity malts, warming spices and fresh aromatic herbal notes.

Taste follows the aroma with full bodied sweet caramel malts, honey, a nice alcohol warmth, a good dose of  spicing is also evident (ginger and clove) also present are balanced, aromatic earthy hops in the finish.

An outstanding beer and one that will reward the hunt......a massive thank-you to Filip.

Saturday 26 May 2012

Bitter Sweet Symphony

Now for a beer with an American influence, Bitter Sweet Symphony is a collaboration between Belgian brewers Gaverhopke and from the States, Tired Hands Brewing Company - the recipe American, the brewing Belgian.

Pours a bright hazy amber, topped by a huge creamy, fluffy white head that slowly fades to a thin cap - from the start this is one great looking beer.

Lovely aroma of sweet caramel malts, bready Belgian yeast, light floral hops and a sweet citrus (grapefruit) finish.

Tasting only confirms just how much this beer lives up to its name - bitterness comes in the shape of dry grassy - straw like hops, biting citrus notes combined with a fruity (peach) edge.
Sweet malts with touches of caramel provide the perfect symphony.