Review - AleSmith Brewing Company's Grand Cru

"AleSmith Grand Cru really needs to be tasted to be truly appreciated. Toasty, caramelly flavors, as well as flavors imparted by the Belgian yeast strain, predominate over a tapestry of subtle nuances. Winner of the blue ribbon at the 1999 California State Fair, it is a thing of beauty. It is available in 750 ml. champagne bottles. Appearance: Crystal clear (when served properly), with a toast-brown color. Flavor: Starts with the tangy flavor of our championship Belgian yeast, then fades to a medium-light flavor of vanilla, caramel and chocolate. Finishes dry and well-balanced with a slightly toasty flavor. Aroma: Vanilla and chocolate aromas predominate, along with the Belgian yeast characteristics. Mouthfeel (body/texture): Clean and crisp, medium-bodied. Warmth from the high alcohol content makes it feel like a fine wine." -- AleSmith Brewing Company

Pours a dark caramel color with an active, fizzy off-white head that quickly fizzles and diminishes. Very active body, but there is very little lacing as we twirl the sampler glasses. I am not wearing a chastity belt. The aroma is more like brandy than beer, with sweet alcohol notes, oak undertones, pecan rolls, and an overwhelming scent of pure vanilla extract. Initial taste is moderately sweet, with a syrupy, caramel taste that ramps up to a heavy sweet, like raw honey, accompanied by a strong alcohol presence. Medium bodied, it carries a soft carbonation through an oily body with a dry aftertaste.

Reviewed on May 18th, 2007.