Judge's Review: 93 Rating - Éphémère Pomme by Unibroue

Éphémère Pomme by Unibroue is being evaluated as a Fruit Beer (2015 BJCP Category 29A). It pours a deep amber color with a dense, tall stand of beige foam that is fairly persistent.

The intense aroma reminds me of the caramel apples of the fall. There’s a bit of wheat and grain that mingle with red delicious apples, both skins and flesh. Hops are completely absent.  As it warms, cinnamon, crystallized ginger and nutmeg emerge.

The flavor follows the aroma but with additional complexity.  Moderate grainy, wheat malt is present and complements the cinnamon and clove-like spiciness well. A variety of caramel apples are still at the forefront but far more balanced than the aroma would’ve indicated. Semi-sweet finish with lingering bread, caramel, spice and apple. Medium-full body, moderate carbonation and a bit of creaminess hits the mark for mouthfeel.

Éphémère Pomme showcases apples but elevates them beyond their humble beginnings. Although the base beer is slightly lost in relation to the fruit, this offering is none-the-less tasty and approachable. If you’re looking for apple pie in a glass sans the whipped cream, then this should be on your drinking list.