New Belgium Biere de Mars
With New Belgium’s presence still relatively nascent in the state of Virginia, I’ve only had the opportunity to have one other release from the company’s Lips of Faith series — Super Cru. So, needless to say, I was a tad bit excited to run across this bottle of Biere de Mars the other day.
Brewed with lemon peel and lemon verbena, this 6.2% ABV bier de garde has also been bottle conditioned with Brettanomyces, giving the beer a wonderfully funky presence. Add in a crisp, lively mouthfeel and you have yourself one fine drinking and refreshing Spring time beverage.
Appearance
Biere de Mars pours an orangish amber in color with a large, slowly dropping off-white head.
Aroma
The nose is full of lemon zest, light wheat, a barnyard funk and spices. It certainly has an aroma that mingles nicely with the blooming flowers in the yard.
Taste
For the most part the flavor profile follows the aroma, though the beer isn’t as funky as the nose may have hinted at. There is a welcome touch of sourness to the beer that compliments the lemon and spice presence nicely. There is a latent bit of tartness in the lingering finish that’s a nice touch. A lively carbonation helps push the beer across the palate making sure its flavors are experienced throughout the mouth, as the it finishes with a hint of alcohol.
Overall
So far, my experience with the Lips of Faith series has been quite enjoyable. I would have loved a touch more Brettanomyces within this beer’s depths, but as it stands, Biere de Mars is still a tasty treat that was ideal for a warm afternoon.
Rating:3.75/5