HORAL Oude Geuze Mega Blend (2015) Gueuze at 7% ABV (C$21.59 at Willow Park Wine & Spirits, 750 ml, best before 31-Oct-2034, acquired 28-Jul-2015, reviewed 20-Feb-2018)
Appearance: clear pale amber with one fat finger of rocky ivory head, excellent retention and moderate lacing. (5/5) Aroma: citrus zest, pome fruit, mild earthy funk. (9/10) Taste: moderate sweet, moderate tart, low bitter. (8/10) Palate: medium-light body, moderate-high carbonation, dry crisp lightly funky finish. (4/5)
Stellar example of the style, but that’s hardly surprising, given that it’s a product of the HORAL consortium (Hoge Raad voor Ambachtelijke Lambikbieren – “High Council for Traditional Lambic Beers”, though Cantillon’s non-involvement in the group continues to be cause for concern). Restrained tartness with lovely complexity and a well-balanced funk on a bone-dry more-ish finish. Glad I’ve got a second one to cellar further – it’ll be interesting to see whether the funk, in particular, continues to develop with a couple more years on it. (17/20)
8.5/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
