Monday 4 June 2012

Delirium Tremens

Launched in 1989 Delirium Tremens is one of many beers from brewery Huyghe, located in Melle on the outskirts of Ghent.
Instantly recognisable it is packaged in a bottle that is painted to resemble Cologne ceramics and wears a label that features pink elephants, dancing crocodiles and performing dragons - DT stands out on any shelf.

With an exterior like that the contents must stand up...and indeed they do as in 2008 it was named "Best beer in the World" at the World Beer Championships in the USA.

This mighty beer pours a hazy, golden yellow, topped with a crowning , thick, white, rocky head - beneath the beer is effervescent, alive with tiny yeast particles.

Aroma is full of bready / yeasty notes, crisp orchard fruits (apples and pears) coupled with tropical banana, hints of pepper spice and fragrant floral hops in the finish.

Taste follows with sweet, doughy / bready yeast, floral grassy hops, crisp orchard fruits (but also peaches) and a clean lemon barley bitterness on the finish.

No doubt a beer that stands up to the crazy packaging and one with a word of caution - Delirium Tremens is Latin for shaking frenzy (often referred to as the DT's) and is caused by an acute withdrawal from alcohol.

2 comments:

  1. Jay, I am looking for what I am assuming is a Belgian brew from the mid 80's. It came in a similar light colored ceramic bottle. I believe it had a green and white, or black and white label. Any chance you could be of assistance? I have not seen it in quite some time, but would love to find it again.

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  2. Hi Georgene,

    There are very few Belgian beers that come in painted ceramic bottles, another by Huyghe is La Guillotine

    http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/180/3976

    you mentioned though a green label, this one springs to mind

    http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/183/806

    I'll ask around to see if there are any other possibilities.

    Regards,
    Jay.

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