Blacklist Or de Belgique

Blacklist Brewing Or de Belgique. Brewed and bottled by Dubrue Brewing, LLC, Duluth, MN for Blacklist Brewing, Duluth, MN. 9.5% alc./vol.

Based on the name, I think we have a Belgian Golden Strong on our hands. Looking at it, smelling it, we may have a bit of a funky, rustic version to contend with. But, let's go in for a closer look…

Very clouded, bright golden appearance, slim white head on top.

Aroma: Belgian yeast is all over this one, with other elements of spices, citrus fruit, and a whiff of the ol' horse blanket. Intriguing.

Taste: Once more, the Belgian yeast is foremost on the palate, with the spark of the Belgian golden ale swift on it's heels. More citrus zest and peppery spice spank the tongue. Just enough sweet to match the spice. Crisp, lush maltiness. Medium bodied, fully flavored. This is an unfiltered ale, perhaps bottle conditioned. I'm enjoying it, that's for sure.

Now's the time I want to read the label and find out more. The type is so tiny, and I'm only getting older, but I'm giving it a go. "Honoring traditional Belgian processes, Or de Belgique is the "Gold of Belgium" made here in Minnesota. Bursting with tropical fruit flavors and rich aromas, this sophisticated and balanced beer is the perfect beverage to accompany a special night out. Lending a touch of sweetness to acidic or bitter dishes and cleansing the palate between bites of rich meats and desserts, Or de Belgique sparkles with food."

The spice and acidity is growing and growing as the alcohol rise, too, as it grows larger and larger in the mouth. It's ending dry on the palate, but this rich blend of flavors continues to delight.

This is my second Blacklist beer, and if they're all this good, I'm just going to keep on drinking them. You should, too.

We're bursting with breweries around here, and I've got no problems with a few more of them devoting themselves to Belgian styles. We've got Olvalde Farms, Borealis Fermentery, Boom Island, Harriet, and now Blacklist. Keep 'em coming, guys, and I'll keep drinking 'em.