Belle-Vue, Framboise, 5.7% ABV
Like Kriek, Framboise seems to have altered its alcohol strength over the years, changing from 5.2, to 5.8, then 5.7. Regardless, 5.7abv is pretty strong for a Framboise, which are normally only about 4abv. This fruit beer is very fruity, also with a slight sourness (but less so than Kriek). Ironically it has a slight flavour of cherries, as well as strawberries. The aftertaste is curranty, slightly sour, with traces of caramel. A tart, fruit juice texture is preceded by an aroma of dark fruits and caramel, as well as somewhat reminiscent of a lambic. This is a medium-bodied golden-red beer, not too fizzy, with high to moderate levels of sugar. It has a persistent creamy had, with spotty lacing around the glass. I prefer this one to Kriek – it just seems smoother.
As well as Belgium's Belle-Vue Kriek and Belle-Vue Framboise, check out the other Belgian beers, or browse the world beers section.