Ale
Brasserie Trois Dames

Pours with a very minimal head even after a fairly aggressive attempt; lightly hazy marigold orange color that's a bit light for a brew that labels itself an ESB.

Aroma is distinctly hoppy with citrus fruits, some floral notes, light candy sweetness. Flavor follows the aroma quite closely, with more a malt presence to balance out the hops that come through. Slightly hop forward, which was nice, but very mellow and balanced. Some earthiness at points. Thinner MF that is slightly viscous somehow, with very soft carbonation. Pretty easy drinking, nice low ABV, balance, flavorful hop profile....what's not to like? Actually reminds me of a tamer version of their IPA. Nice brew.

Nice, slightly opaque, reddish appearance. Wonderful smell of strawberries, and maybe apricots. Taste is very fresh and fruity, with nice, hoppy bitterness in the aftertaste. Rather dry, and very little sweetness/maltiness. Reminds me of Red Seal Ale, but is a bit drier. Some might think it to be a bit unbalanced or thin, because of the abcense of maltiness, but I like its driness. I also bought this one in Bern, together with an IPA from the same brewery, which I now very much look forward to trying!

<i>re-rate 1/2008; courtesy of Raphaël Mettler</i> - hazy blond coloured with a little unregular white foam but a nice lacing; gentle flowery hoppiness showing notes of cream and honey; medium-bodied, rounded and with a decent bitterness; long flowery and bitter hoppy finish - a nice session beer<p><i>may 2005</i>cloudy dark amber colour, fine head, nutty, buttery aroma, medium rounded body, long dry hoppy and nutty finish - good balance

Pours dark orange with very small head, which disappears quickly, also there is almost no lacing. Aroma is malty, very gentle, with flowery hops, some hints of grapefruit, maybe orange. Flavour is quite similar to aroma, at first spicy, but then mild honey sets in with long a perfect bittery and warm afetrtaste. Smooth mouthfeel.

I bough it in Drinks of the World in Bern, I liked the label. But now I know this beer is magnificent, for sure I will drink it again (and again)