‘t IJ Vlo #
My first encounter with Vlo was actually with Vlo himself, the manager of De Bierkoning in Amsterdam. When I asked him about the beer he joyfully exclaimed: “Flo? Flo is me!” patting his chest. He went on to explain how the word ‘vlo’ is Dutch for flea, the nickname he earned working at the flea market selling “Eh… Stuff.” as he put it. My friend and I followed our visit of the store by the brewery ‘t IJ itself where we met one of the brewers who also works at de Bierkoning. He noted that IJ (also Amsterdam’s waterfront) sounds like the Dutch word for egg which explains the ubiquitous logo. After some talk, our new friend mentioned that any self-respecting Vlo lover, would know to get it on tap at Café Belgique. So that’s what I did. I had stolen a few sips from my friend at ‘t Arendsnest when he had the bottled version, so I was ready to find out what made the tap version better.
In appearance the body seemed to vascillate between pinkish orangish yellow hues depending on my angle, much like a ripe apricot that displays on one side its prime rosy skin and on the other a golden youth. The plump creamy head produces multiple tenacious rings of lace as the level descends - an elegant effect. Apricot, peach, mango, coriander, orange peel and pepper emanate from the glass. The clement complexity allows a distinctive aroma to form without it seeming facile. So far, all appeared to be similar to the bottled alternative, though the slight spiciness in the nose felt more discernible. This sentiment became conspicuous in the flavor which had previously been much fruitier. A delicate hop flavor was also unveiled on tap, a toasty blend of sweetened grapefruit, orange peel and pine contributing to the gentle bitter finish. Vanilla, cinnamon and hazelnut are prominent and overshadow some of the peach and apricot flavors that seemed to dominate the bottled variant. Surprisingly the complexity was nearly not affected by the colder temperature, in fact I would highly recommend drinking Vlo between 5 and 7°C where its refreshing qualities give the beer more than just a good taste. On the tongue, the tickling carbonation is above average but accompanies the spicy character appropriately. Quite a remarkable product, all things considered. I wish I had purchased a case from De Bierkoning as I could easily see myself succumb to its soft yet intriguing complexion on a regular basis.
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