The Serine Grand Réserve
de Garde Brewing

 

Bottle.

An inky deep red with a rapidly receding head, this looks good. The nose is insane. Rich, tannic vinous, inky, jammy blackberries, dried blueberry, soft oak, a mildly sweaty funk, earth, a light, dusty mushroom character. Really richly saturated fruit character but tastefully done. As it warms, the vinous character really grows, with the alcohol adding a light baker's spice accent.

The palate opens with lots of grape character, a blend of blackberry, blueberry and a rich, anthocyananin character of black raspberry. This is followed by earthy, dusty, mushroom funk with a touch of lemony acidity to brighten the palate. A mild fruity sweetness is present as well, initially hidden by the funk , tannins and acid. The finish is long, tannic, fruity and drying. Wish I could decant this. Lovely, lush mouthfeel, intense but nimble. Piquant tartaric acid also lends a brightness. A touch of warmth appears as it warms. Lovely.