A taste of… Sofie 2010 (Belgian Style Ale)

Goose Island Beer Co. 1800 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60612-2512 (312) 226-1119Preface: Again these beers were sent to me gratis. Less than a month after Goose Island Beer Company was acquired by InBev-AB their public-relations folks sent out their selection of Belgian style ales brewed late last year. Previously we sampled Pere Jacques, and Matilda and so it’s only fitting that we include sister Sofie. She was kept refrigerated from the time she arrived, hand-delivered, from the public relations agency in New York City.  As you can see from illustration it was poured into a wine glass as suggested on the back label. A notation on the back label also indicates that this brew was bottled on December 21, 2010, that the brew in the bottle is 6.5% alcohol by volume and that it “Develops in the bottle for up to five years.”

Appearance: This is a brilliant light colored golden brew with just a slight haze. It is emphatically effervescent with bubbles that are small to medium size and form an immediate thick white head that diminishes rather rapidly.

Aroma: The first impression reveals aromas traditionally associated with week beer. A second visit revealed a citrus undertone with the touch of lavender. The third nosedive detected a touch of grapefruit as well as the previously mentioned flavor factors.

Flavor: Immediately after the very refreshing sensation of beer poured at the proper temperature, intense citrus experience accompanied by a brisk metallic tang refreshed to taste receptors. The second sip revealed an almost champagne sensation. The third swallow that we still searching for malt amidst an increasingly emphatic flavor profile that pointed to the grape rather than the grain.

Mouth feel: There is an exuberant carbonation to this beverage that increases the mouth feel substantially.

Finish: As noted in the flavor notes the similarity to sparkling wine is also noted here. The flavors are particularly reminiscent of sparkling wine from Italy.

Comments: The moment I sensed the aromas and tastes of the flavors of this beer I was mentally transported to a beach house on a hot summer day waiting for the sun to sink below the yardarm and a lobster pot on the boil. Lobster… Steamed, broiled, baked, grilled… And the bottle or two of this beer. I wouldn’t even bother with the butter.

The Brewery: Goose Island Beer Co.

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