There’s some serious brewing happening across Belgium. Along the edge of brewing that captures old spirit with new technique is the De Ranke group. Started as a bottling and Lemonade concern, post-world war two the family decides to kick the beer making into high gear. The lemonade gets shuttered and after experimenting for a few years the lone brother gets De Ranke producing nearly 9,000 litres per year. This family brewing concern continues gonzo moves in brewing levels, but based on solid brewing history. Now half a dozen brewers pump nearly half a million litres out of their facility, putting beer on tap in 20 countries around the world.
Taste of the Back to Black - De Ranke’s maniacal take on old export Porter. Literally made to be undrinkable and then aged for nearly a year in barrels. Bitter and Sour, stronger than a mule kick. Serve at 10°C and can cellar for years.
Pours a deep, dark amber colour with a cloudy body and high carbonation. A thin layer of brown foam rides the top.
The smell is completely dominated by an ionized metal scent and you need to snarf deep to catch the roasted malt hiding underneath. Deep inhalation catches a boozy, dried fruit scent.
One of the more bizarre things to describe in terms of taste - totally different from the nose. A fruit sweet and salty flavour comes forward, which turns quickly to a more bitter and sour taste. It’s reminiscent of sharp grape juice but with a sour pop. Some acidity lingers along with cherry and salt. The taste leaves a stinging, metallic taste in the mouth after the rest has gone away. By far one of the most interesting combinations of scent and flavour.
With a bitterness this high and an ABV like a dump-truck, food might not help you. But New York strip with roasted potatoes is strong enough to counter this dark force.