Schell's Snowstorm 2014: Grand Cru

Schell's Snowstorm 2014: Grand Cru, Ale Brewed With Spices. August Schell Brewing Company, New Ulm, MN.

Appearance: clear, deep amber, nearly crimson, under a dotted, white head, leaving some lace.

Aroma: sweetness and spice, fruity esters and Belgian yeast character aplenty. Just my style.

Taste: First sip: bright malty flavors, apple, cherry, maybe grape in the flavor. nice sweetness, just delightful spices on the side. Warm malt, mild hops, hits the right notes as an interpretation of many of the Belgian brews calling themselves Grand Cru.

I love a good Grand Cru, if brewed to style, …and here are my top 5, in ascending order by closeness to style:

Not exactly. There are no specific guidelines you need to follow when you make a Grand Cru, because the style name basically means "our best", (it's French for "Best Growth") and different versions can vary quite a bit. But, Schell's has made a valid attempt to replicate the flavor profiles of the best from Belgium. And it is delicious.

This is bottle 5 of 6. I'm going to have to go back for more.