Always The Critic

Beer review: Ciney Brune

This Belgian number really surprised me. It has a hint of lambic sourness, that makes it fresh and interesting and for me separates it from most other standard brunes. It seems that many people don't rate it, but I find it to be an interesting diversion, if only for its subtle sweet and sour novelty. I don't think I'd have more than one of an evening though - it's not that great overall.

Beer review: Leffe Ruby

This beer is a fruity revelation! At least if you like that sort of thing. Officially described as being flavoured with red fruits, with a hint of spice and wood, even a touch of sourness, the result is very impressive. Like most fruity beers it's not strong at 5% but it really does taste wonderful. To me the main fruit flavour is raspberry with maybe a drop of cherry.

I will be seeking out more of this stuff, and if I don't my wife may not forgive me for drinking most of this one.

Beer review: Affligem Blonde

When I left a job recently, my Belgian colleagues presented me with a basket filled with a vast and varied array of beers. My arms having recovered from carrying it home, it's now time to sample these fine wares.

First up Affligem Blonde, at 6.8% a relative lightweight in the Belgian canon, but I was impressed by the overall result. A bit like Leffe, but more subtle and probably less cloying if you were to drain a few. It's really smooth and well-balanced, just edging only slightly into the treacly tendencies of classic Belgian brews, but definitely going beyond "straightforward lager". I really liked it - it's a great beer to start an evening of lowland delicacies or for general consumption if you're not feeling like the heavy stuff.

Expect more over the coming weeks, and expect them to be mostly in entirely the wong glasses, as above.