Moen, Belgium - 10% abv

What to say about this beer? Better to dive right in.

It is clearly alive, crackling and popping in the bottle after removing its substantial crown top. Pour it carefully and admire the huge, fluffy head that has staying power—rare for a sour beer. Try to keep the yeast in the bottom of the bottle exactly where it is. Retention is the reason for that oddly-shaped neck on this classic, bottle-fermented Belgian strong sour ale. The aroma is enticing, all quince and lemon marmalade, stewed apricots, and a mild barnyard influence.

The first sip will shock you with its freshness, and the second sip may too. Soon, fruit sweetness appears on your palate, encouraged by the peppy carbonation evident in this wonderfully composed brew. The savory finish, however, is arguably the real winner here, lingering for minutes, and begging for rich foods to accompany the tart and sweet symphony already playing in this bottle.

Sip easy! This one can sneak up on you.