Lindemans

Lindemans Oude Gueuze Cuvée René 375ml

Oude Gueuze Cuvée René.

Often overlooked in favor of more prominent producers, Lindemans Oude Gueuze Cuvée René is a liquid testament to the raw beauty and complexity of traditional Belgian brewing. While the Lindemans name is more commonly associated with approachable, fruit-infused lambics, this Cuvée René is a world apart—a true Oude Gueuze that stands proudly on its own. It is a masterpiece that is often missed by those who seek out the more celebrated names in the gueuze world, but for the discerning palate, it is a rewarding discovery, a pure expression of a style that is more akin to a fine wine or a complex cider than a conventional beer. For those who appreciate history and the unbridled spirit of wild fermentation, this is a bold beer that demands to be savored.

Pouring a slightly hazy, deep golden color, the Cuvée releases a vibrant, effervescent foam that crackles with the rhythm of life. The aroma is a rustic symphony, with notes of tart green apple, pear, and lemon zest, underscored by a characteristic "barnyard" or "horse blanket" notes that are the hallmark of Brettanomyces yeast. I also find subtle hints of aged oak from the wooden barrels in which the lambic was matured.

On the palate, this beer is bone dry and intensely sour, with a searing acidity that is both challenging and exhilarating. Layers of flavor unfold, from sharp lemon and sour apple to a deep, earthy funk and a hint of white wine. The carbonation is lively and champagne-like, creating a crisp, cleansing finish that leaves you eager for another sip. While it may be a bit demanding of an experience for those new to the style, but for me, it is a reminder that the greatest beers are often those that push boundaries and defy expectations. Lindemans Oude Gueuze Cuvée René is a true gem, a beer that embodies the patience, skill, and tradition that make Belgian brewing so extraordinary. And at a much more appreciable price.