effervescent refractions

It was a common summer evening. A cool breeze whispered from the forest alleviating the afternoon heat as the cork sealing my single bottle of Drie Fontein Oude Kriek gently slid out with a thwop. Poured, the liquid radiated of a beautiful scarlet hue, effervescing to a rosy foam before it reduced to a lasting creamy pink layer. A very natural cherry aroma emerges immediately; juicy, luscious fruit dominates the nose while the classic lambic base provides ample complexity in the form of rustic scents. Champagne mingles with wet straw, soap, grass, Emmental, oak and moss while mild raspberry yoghurt and almondy tones appear on the sweet side. The flavor, in all respects, is much softer than Cantillon’s counterpart. The sourness is lessened, and the cherries subdued, but Drie Fonteinen’s character is nonetheless distinct. Subtle apple and cherries contribute the light fruity notes, while a dusty wood tone adds to the terroir character. On the palate this lambic seems surprisingly smooth though it is not without a slight puckering touch. Delicate carbonation matches the mellifluous attitude of this kriek, imparting a very refreshing, rather mild and thoroughly enjoyable quality to this beer.