United Nations of Beer

Delirium Noel

by Bret
(Las Vegas, NV)

Delirium Noel (10% ABV)
Huyghe Brewery, Melle/Ghent, Belgium
Visit the UNOB's Belgium beer guide

This is by far the most interesting Christmas beer I have had all season. It came in am 11.2oz. bottle which was pewter colored and speckled, which looked very festive but did not allow me to see the beer until poured.

There is a load of yeast sediment at the bottom of this Belgian and it floats around the glass like you tipped a snow globe. Don't worry though, those little particles of yeasty goodness added a ton of texture and flavor to this beer.

There is an aroma of roasted malt and yeast that overwhelm any hop scents, with a spicy back note from all the sediment floating in the glass after poured. Subtle spiciness associated with the flavors of the season which are apparent from start to finish.

Delirium Noel is deep copper, amber to brown in color with slight cloudiness and lots of yeast floating around in the glass as previously mentioned. There is a light foamy head which lingers and traps the seasonings and yeast floating to the top. Laces the glass while being consumed and leaves little ringlets of the yeast that are not consumed.

The taste of this beer is something else because of all the esters in the yeast, sweetness coupled with a strong malt and roasted flavor, and a spicy aftertaste which stays on the coats the palate for a few seconds. there is a mild bitterness which blends with the powerful maltiness and makes this an excellent Belgian Dark Ale. There was an unfortunate slightly metallic aftertaste when I burped, but it too was not unpleasant.

Although there are a few floaties, this beer had a smooth texture which coats your mouth with malt and yeast. This is a very refreshing beer with moderate carbonation, lots of body because of the yeast sediments and a pleasure to drink.

Overall this beer was fantastic except for the small portion.