Het Anker Gouden Carolus Grand Cru 2011

Gouden Carolus is a Belgian brewery dating back to the middle ages – we’re talking about the 1300′s here – so they’ve had some time to figure out a few things about brewing good beer. This beer, “Cuvee Van de Keizer Blauw,” is brewed once a year on the birthday of Charles V. Why exactly that is, I do not know or particularly care. The beer is good. Very good.

What’s it like? It pours a dark brown color with a thin beige head. The aroma and flavor is sweet and wine-like. If you are a fan of port wine or dopplebocks, you will like this. The alcohol content is high, 11%, but it’s well hidden under complex layers of sweet wood, fruit and caramel malty goodness. The typical Belgian “funk” is present, but refreshingly subtle compared to other flavors. The brew is fresher and sweeter than many Belgians. Very much to my liking and perfect for a dessert pairing, or on its own.