Spent most of the day in anticipation of sampling 5 recent new-comers from what is certainly one of the top importers of beer in our time, the Shelton Brothers. Look for this name on the back, or side of a bottle and you are sure to get something special, or often epiphanal. They rarely pick anything that is less that very interesting, and most buyers love tasting these beers, buying them, and then proudly selling them with the same passion that went into the very making of the products themselves. A labor of love down the line and into the very last drop. I’ll spill these 5 beers out nightly, one or two at a time, so as you, the reader can savor them slowly as intended! Here are a couple to look at and by all means to go out and find. If in the Boston area, please drop me a line here and I can connect you up with where to find these beers. Quantities of all the Shelton stuff is limited however, so search em out, get them, and enjoy!
-Brasserie de Blaugies “Darbyste” (Belgium) A Saison like, Pale ale with figs. Stunning deep apricot color here. Creamy head with good retention. Aromas are fruity with nicely sour notes emerging. The fig character on the palate is somewhat meaty and if one could describe a fruit as “gamey” this would be the standard bearer. The carbonation is mild and the mouth feel is generous and pleasant. The fig notes are both assertive and elegant. This is what I would have to call a disturbingly interesting brew. I think I’d pair it with pork, or better yet, wild boar if you happen to have some lying around. Pork and fruit-classic.
-Les Trois Mousquetaires 2009 Weizen Imperial “Grand Cuvee” (Quebec) Ahh! Sweet malty aromas emerge from the glass along with fresh baked banana bread steaming on a counter top awaiting a dollop of cream. The lovely sweetness to the nose is warming and inviting. Welcome, especially in the cooler months of the year. The finish continues on and on with warming blasts of banana and burnt sugars. It is powerful and very long. A meal in a glass. Drink this on its own or with a warm buttery bread and a hunk of creamy stinky cheese of your choice.
These are two very nice offerings that should be considered and sought out for their uniqueness. More Shelton 5 to follow.
