3 Fonteinen Brouwerij Ambachtelijke Geuzestekerij Beersel Blonde Belgian Strong Pale Ale at 7% ABV (C$6.02 at Willow Park Wine & Spirits, 330 ml, best before 11-Apr-2018, acquired 1-Apr-2017, reviewed 1-May-2017)
Appearance: clear pale gold with two fat fingers of rocky white head, excellent retention and well-defined lacing. (5/5) Aroma: bready malt, honey, floral, banana, hint of white pepper. (6/10) Taste: moderate sweet, moderate-low bitter, light peppery spice. (6/10) Palate: medium body, moderate carbonation, off-dry moderate bitter and mildly spicy finish. (3/5)
I was really puzzled by the naming of this: 3 Fonteinen calls their BSPA “Beersel” Blonde, when it has no association whatsoever with Oud Beersel? But then, I figured it out: Beersel is the name of the town. The two breweries are literally a fifteen minute walk from each other. Still, gotta say, seems like a little bit of a dick move – if it confused a fairly hardcore beer geek like me, then you gotta think the possibility for consumer confusion is pretty high. Anyway. On to the beer. And, well, hrm. It’s not actually bad, y’know? But when you consider they make one of the best Gueuzes in the world, perhaps it might be better sticking with that? Really. It’s a very, very pretty beer. And that’s pretty much the best I can say about it. Stick to Gueuze and don’t bother contract brewing at the De Proefbrouwerij. (12/20)
6.5/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
