Score: 87/100 – Very Good
From a 750ml bottle served cool into a stemless wine glass. No date information on the bottle but this is a fresh release.
I picked this up from a local specialty store last night knowing the beer was part of that day’s shipment. I’ve never had beers from Albion so my expectations are average. However, there’s something in the air that makes me think this won’t disappoint. Let’s find out.
Appearance 4/6
The beer pours an opaque (almost murky) deep gold with 3.5cm of dense, creamy, off-white head which dissipates into a craggy cap within 3+ minutes. Exceptional lacing and good head retention.
Aroma 19/24
Moderate intensity with sharp-ish balance. The aroma is uncommon and strangely reminiscent of a needle-covered forest floor.
Sharp and perfumy coniferous tree note – like this was conditioned on juniper needles or something similar. Prominent grapefruit oil and low unripe mango character. A hint of melon and moss.
The dry nose is mild with notes of crackery malt, low fresh yeast, and a resinous quality. Wow that’s unique.
Flavour 35/40
Medium-strong intensity with bitter balance and assertive perceived bitterness.
The unusual palate opens up with resinous tree needles, citrus, nectarines, and minerals making way for a brisk center where the outdoorsy, woodsy notes harmonize with the oily citrus character and are supported by low malt-sweetness and a hint of tropical fruit.
The long finish is bitter and of moderate strength with notes of crushed juniper needles, grapefruit oil, and low crackery malt. I struggle to find the words…
Mouthfeel 10/10
Medium body with moderate carbonation. The mouthfeel is crisp yet creamy and mouth-coating with restrained alcohol warming and a medium-dry finish. No astringency or harshness on the palate even if the bitterness builds over time.
Overall 19/20
Brasserie Artisanale Albion’s Lacustre is a rustic and distinctive beer.
The appearance is ok – I’m not a fan of the colour or clarity but the foam attributes are spot-on. The aroma takes you off-guard with special ingredients bombarding your senses and just as you gather yourself for the sip, the palate throws you for a loop. The mouthfeel is great – it’s refreshing yet it has some real weight while leaving your palate cleansed.
I was very confused at first – maybe I still am. Lacustre deserves a very high overall score because it’s unique, it takes me on a journey, and there are no clear off-flavours. I can visualize a damp, earthy, and solitary forest with each sip and that alone is worth a lot of points.
This is the equivalent of an off-kilter wine in a fancy restaurant – “what the f**k am I drinking? I think I like it!” I’d love to know how this was brewed and what ingredients were used – do send me a message if you happen to know.
If you’re sensitive to perfumy characteristics and soapy notes – this beer may rub you the wrong way. For the rest of you, it’s an interesting brew to try.
My expectations were exceeded and I’m now looking forward to Forêt Blanche which is waiting for its turn in the fridge.
Beerfection | Craft Beer Reviews | Montreal, Canada 