Tuesday, December 18, 2012

New Belgium Frambozen Raspberry Brown Ale

Here's one I'm having for the first time since the brewery has been distributed here in MN, and looking back at my first bottle, from way back in November, 2003. Here it is, the raspberry brown ale from New Belgium, Frambozen:


Appearance: lovely dark garnet hued, with a fine, dun-colored head atop, settling swiftly down.

Aroma: wonderful! Sweet, yet tart, like chocolate-covered berries, beautiful, complex, and brilliant.
Taste: bright and tangy, full of gorgeous fruity flavor and lush texture. Tasrtness first, then sweet, and very, very mellow.

Frombozen here has the distinct advantage over raspberry lambics of having this brown ale base to it, making it sturdier, tastier. The raspberries blend well with the ale, doesn't stick out so terribly much, aiding drinkability. A remarkable notion, excellently executed!

Here's the info from the label: New Belgium Frambozen, Raspberry Brown Ale, Ale brewed with real raspberries: "Flemish for "raspberry", is our big, luscious celebration of the ruby red fruit found in Belgium's Framoise ales, Our version is brewed with real northwestern raspberries. Gaze upon Frambozen's deep warming color and infuse your ensue with berry goodness. This Colorado holiday tradition should be served cool in a worthy glass for the best sensory experience." 6.5% ABV. Best BEfore: 17 Feb 13.

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