United Nations of Beer

New Belgium La Folie 2004

by UtahSteve
(Ogden, Utah USA)

New Belgium
La Folie 2004
Bottle Number 04-2214
Ft. Collins, CO USA
750 ml bottle
6% ABV
Cellar Temperature
Tasted on 7/28/2008

Immediate aroma of slightly sour apple cider on uncorking the bottle. There is also a slightly sour cherry quality and some spice/pepper as well as a hint of cabernet/shiraz and alcohol.

A very large fizzy head diminishes rapidly to a firm lasting half inch head and there are still numerous fine bubbles even after four years in my cellar, though the carbonation is not really evident in the mouthfeel.

The appearance is clear and a lovely copper/orange color. The first sip is very sour and vinous. Some residual sweetness is also apparent as well as a very faint hint of oak and bubble gum?

The initial flavor is mildly acidic and the finish is mildly acidic and sweet. The body is medium and the texture seems slightly drying, but that is nicely balanced by the sourness that makes my mouth water. There is very little lace.

The second glass is slightly cloudy as it appears I have disturbed the sediment from the bottom of the bottle. The aroma is also changed slightly to more doughy/yeasty. The flavor is also a little less sweet and more vinous and slightly less sour. The lace has also improved.

My third glass is significantly less sour; getting used to it? and much more sweet and oaky.

I had not tasted La Folie until I opened this bottle but I would definitely add this one to my cellar again. Unfortunately this requires a 700-mile trip to Colorado.

Aroma Score 9/10
Appearance Score 4.5/5
Flavor Score 11/15
Body Score 4/5
Impression Score 12/15
Overall Score 40.5/50