Jun 9, 2010

Unibroue Quelque Chose

Unibroue Quelque Chose

Unibroue’s Quelque Chose, a 50/50 blend of two Belgians ales (strong dark and brown) that is then steeped with cherries for several months, is just about unlike any other beer I’ve had in the past.

First off, it’s completely flat. No carbonation. Zero. Second, the brewery recommends either serving it on ice or heated in a mug — I opted for cellar temperature in a wine glass.

Normally with something as unique as this and as potent (9% ABV), I’d save it for after dinner sipping slowly. Since I was grilling a couple of steaks a couple of nights ago this one seemed like it might prove an interesting pair. While it wasn’t perfect, it did complement the grilled char and the steak’s meatiness with a sweet tartness.

Appearance

Quelque Chose pours a clear ruby in color with no sign of any carbonation.

Aroma

Man, this smells yummy. There’s a truck load of cherries and sweetness in the nose that’s quickly followed with a welcome tartness and a slight Belgian yeast funkiness. The higher ABV makes it’s presence known, but isn’t overbearing.

Taste

Wow. Let’s start off with the obvious. The mouthfeel on this beer is slightly syrupy and quite smooth a result of zero carbonation. The flavor profile is all natural cherries backed with the blend of Belgian ales. The sweetness balances perfectly with the cherry tartness, spices and slight funk brought on by the yeast. The finish lingers wonderfully with a hint of alcohol.

Overall

After the wife and I finished the bottle with dinner, we both could see why the brewery recommends warming this one in a mug. It would be great on a cold winter afternoon as a mulled wine. I’m not sure that I would be able to drink the full 750ml bottle myself — the flavors do get to be a bit much for me — but this beer is dangerously drinkable and smooth.

Rating: 3.5/5

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