Your humble GearCrave editor first tasted heaven-in-a-bottle in 1999 at the Hop Leaf in Chicago, Illinois. A 19-year-old at the time (don’t tell the cops), I plucked a ten spot down on the bar and asked the ‘tender for the absolute best beer in the business. Without thinking, he quickly brandished a bottle of Duchesse De Bourgogne. At first sip, my taste buds were humbled, knowing they had finally found love…

Duchesse De Bourgogne is a distinctive Flemish red ale with deep hints of raspberry, chocolate, and a bit of raisin before the standard long acidic finish of a classic red. While the essence of fruit is strong in this one, Duchesse (pronounced “D00-shay”) is not a lambic, nor is it a fruity beer for the faint of heart. This magnificent Flemish red ale is for those who truly know beer, who understand its complexity, and have the taste buds for one hell of a lasting taste adventure- one sip at a time.

This lover of the Duchesse has a tip- while it is normally served cold, don’t be afraid to try this one at room temperature. You’ll thank me later!

Buy at your local boutique beer market (can occasionally be found at Whole Foods, Binny’s, ABC, etc).