Robin Shepard
When pairing food with drink, most people will start by selecting the entrée and then choose a beer or wine to match. But Belgian red beers, especially those with sour tones, almost cry for inverse logic. One selects these first and then thinks about a wonderful seafood dish as a "grand" companion. The best match will have some assertive citrus or even dill flavors to match with the premium beer known as Grand Cru.
What is it? Grand Cru from Celis Grand Cru (from Michigan Brewing in Webberville, Michigan,) than the oaky background of the Rodenbach.
When the 2008 version of Becker's Grand Cru was first released a few months ago, it had a touch more caramel or maltiness. Now it has reached its prime with a solid citrus, even hints of dry orange within its finish. Whitney's Grand Cru is served in goblets at the west side brewpub for $4.
Tasting notes:
- Aroma: Light fruitiness.
- Appearance: Hazy, reddish amber with a bubbly off-white head.
- Texture: Light to medium, very bubbly.
- Taste: Begins with a hint of caramel malt, but the light fruitiness builds.
- Finish/Aftertaste: Light, dry citrus with hints or orange. Overall, sourness stands out.
Glassware: A great beer for a goblet or even a wine glass/flute.
Pairs well with: The citrus and sour flavors of this Grand Cru will pair wonderfully well with the JT Whitney's citrus jalapeno glazed boneless wings, or the chicken quesadillas dressed in salsa.
Rating: Three Bottle Openers (out of four)
The Consensus: B+ (very good, but only one rating) from Beer Advocate and a 46 from
