Fourth Beer Of Christmas

The 12 Beers of Christmas is a little tradition I started last year in which I treated myself to 12 different beers, one each day. It celebrates the incredible taste and variety that can be found in beers around the world and just a few klicks from my doorstep.

The fourth beer of Christmas is Blanche De Chambly from Unibroue in Quebec, 5% ABV. This beer is described as "Ale on lees".

What is Ale on lees? Also known as "trub", lees are the deposit of yeast and sediments at the bottom of the tank after fermentation. Blanche de Chambly is re-fermented in the bottle on a yeast base.

It pours pale, golden, and cloudy with plenty of suspended yeast, which is tangy. Vegemite anyone?

The abundant carbonation produces clear, tight bubbles, champagne like. From the bottle there is o lasting head, and minimal lacing on the glass.

The nose is fruity and spicy, a preview of this Belgian Witbier.

The Chambly taste is bright, tart, and fruity.  Lemon and orange peel imbue this light wheat and adds spicy coriander to the mix. With a medium body and a medium finish, Blanche de Chambly is a fine Belgian white beer. Great with fish, fruit, or light cheese.