Review: Leffe Brune

[rec]

Die-hard beer-snobs will tell you no decent Belgian ale isn't bottle-conditioned, which only one of the Leffe range are. The fact of the matter is, the Leffe range is a mass-produced product. It's actually brewed by Interbrew, "for the abbey".

If you can accept that, and drink the beer for the beer it is, I'm going to tell you without hesitation that it's one of the few great mass-produced Belgian brews widely available.

My Leffe glasses arrived today, and tonight marks a special moment for me; I've now tried their entire export range... Brune, Blonde, Radieuse, Tripel and Vieille Cuvee. I've come to the conclusion that my favourite, without doubt, is the Brune. Funnily enough, the Brune and Blonde are the two most accessible from your average liquor superstore import section.

Many travellers who have spent time in the region even believe Leffe Brune is the best beer on offer there. I have even seen testimonials from people who have lived in Belgium for as long as a decade who agree, and others who say it's the best mass-produced brune in the world.

Based on what I've tried and read however, I'd still say try Rochefort 8, Westvleteren and Westmalle Dubbel before making such a call yourself. Keep in mind Rochefort will set you back around AUD $12 a stubby and Westvleteren as well as Westmalle are almost impossible to find here in Australia.

I personally love the caramel malt sweetness of Leffe Brune, and its accompanying mild fruity spice. It has a dry yeasty finish, and isn't as complex as you might expect, but is well rounded. The texture is just brilliant which is soft and bordering on thick, but not syrupy.

It's quite simply one of the best beers I've ever had, and if you haven't tired it get down to your 1st Choice Liquor, Dan Murphy's or other import-stocking bottle shop and pick yourself up a couple. Just recognise that if you're a fan of less-full lagers and the like, you're probably going to need a few to warm up to it.

Edit for swamp rat: Price per stubby is $4.49 at 1st Choice Liqor/Dan Murphy's

[rec]

Well I couldn't find Westmalle Dubbel, but I did find Westmalle Tripel.

It's in the freezer chilling at the moment, and I'll report back with my findings once I've had it.

[ResLo]

I agree, the Brune is a fantastic drop... time for a lunch at the Belgian Beer Bar me thinks... NisMo, Nytcrawler.... you up for it this Thursday?

[rec]

I'm definately in! Need to catch up with Nyt! Send me a PM with details if you do it and I'll meet ya there...

[ResLo]

Looks like its on... I'll contact Nyt (cause he never reads these forums no more) and get back to you.... any other takers welcome.

[rec]

Westmalle Tripel reviewed

Also; I've sent you a PM with my mobile re: this Thursday.

[ResLo]

rec Die-hard beer-snobs will tell you no decent Belgian ale isn't bottle-conditioned, which none of the Leffe range are.

The double negative is doing my head in....an edit may be required

[Nightcrawler]

yep consider me there - I will ring my P.A. in the morning and book me out for the arvo and arrange a lift home with the wife

Will be good to catch up with you Jamie

Do you still speak with the likes of Mentasm etc? I am sure he and the other lads would be keen on joining us?!

**edit** I just realised we have dinner at the Greedy Goose (restaurant that won "My Restaurant Rules") Thursday night too - this could turn into a huge day/night!

[ResLo]

Nightcrawler **edit** I just realised we have dinner at the Greedy Goose (restaurant that won "My Restaurant Rules") Thursday night too - this could turn into a huge day/night!

My thoughts exactly.... Belgian Beer - Cas - Dinner... a nice combo and good practice for St Patricks day

[rec]

That sentence makes perfect sence. If you're confused blame your education.