Beer Review: Bloed, Zweet & Tranen [Bruichladdich version] (De Molen)

This is another beer from our early session with Giles Tuffin. As mentioned, Giles is a favourite bartender of mine and has worked in bars around the world for many years. He also writes; you can find his work here. 

De Molen Bloed, Zweet & Tranen

Brewery: De Molen
Origin: Bodegraven, The Netherlands
Style: Smoked Beer (Imperial Smoked Stout)
Format: 750ml (agglomerated cork and wirehood seal)
ABV: 8.1%
Guest reviewer: Giles Tuffin

The satisfying ‘pop’ of the cork helped build anticipation for this beer – one that we were all looking forward to. A reasonably tight, crema-coloured head, and a classic espresso look sat elegantly and attractively in the glass. Giles described it as “a very tanned Jessica Alba”. The carbonation was perhaps a tiny bit lower than we expected, but nothing to complain about. The aroma was powerful, with burnt toffee, strong malt notes, and – of course! – the hint of peat we expected, with maybe just a touch of wood ash. The flavour profile was less complex than we had anticipated, and a little too much residual sweetness crept through the delicious malted notes that drove it. Berries, dried fruit, and a little chocolate fill your mouth on first sip. Thankfully, just-sharp-enough hops kick in after a second or two, and the beer finishes quite dry, and is not too cloying on the palate. Whilst it wasn’t all we had hoped for, it was still a well-made, enjoyable drop.

Nic: Whilst a little too sweet for my general preference, the BZT manages to maintain a reasonably balanced flavour profile by incorporating a savoury toastiness and  of course the tang of the fantastic Bruichladdich peat-smoked malt. 

Simon: This is light-bodied for a stout, but shows an interesting flavour progression nonetheless. A sweet start gradually turns to a hop-driven set of middle flavours, and a surprisingly dry finish. Definitely one to try. 

Giles: This would be a good introductory stout for the new enthusiast with a slightly sweeter tooth. Not as peaty as one would expect, but still packed with intense and lasting flavour.        

Packaging: Simple, clear, and informative. Good stuff.
Serve with: Smoked foods, pickles, medium-sharp cheeses.
Drink this if you like: Rogue Shakespeare Oatmeal Stout, Nøgne Ø Imperial Stout