Le Trou du Diable Le Coq Sour / Wild Ale at 6.5% ABV (C$21.49 at Willow Park Wine & Spirits, 750 ml, bottle date 26-May-2016, acquired 23-Jul-2016, reviewed 23-Jul-2016)
Appearance: cloudy ruby red with one finger of rocky pink head, good retention and patchy lacing. (4/5) Aroma: sour cherry, mild horseblankety funk, light balsamic vinegar. (8/10) Taste: moderate sweet, moderate tart, light funk. (9/10) Medium-light body, moderate carbonation, crisp tart and lightly funky finish. (4/5)
I was caught bit flat-footed by the explosive decapping, but grabbed the glass in time to save most of the subsequent gusher. Thankfully – because I will now impart pretty much the highest compliment I could give: in a blind tasting, you might be able to convince me this was a Cantillon Kriek. Well… y’know… if I had already been drinking… or had a cold… OK, fine, it smells like a Cantillon Kriek, OK? …sort of… The flavours don’t quite have the depth and complexity, and it’s not quite so bone-dry and champagne-like, nor is it the same crystal-clear ruby – but man, still very, very good. Call it 90% of a Cantillon for 60% of the (domestic) price? Totally worth it. (17/20)
8.5/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
