Cantillon 50 Degrees North-4 Degrees East

This beer is named after the geographical location of the Cantillon brewery in the central of Brussels, Belgium. Cantillon is arguably the best traditional lambic brewer operating in the world today. Their history, tradition and brewing techniques all work in unison. This particular beer was aged in used cognac barrels from France that Cantillon acquired in 2005. The lambic sat in the barrels for 2 years. I was very excited to try this.....

Been waiting to crack this one. Bottled in 2007, probably the youngest Cantillon I've had. Cork pops and pours into my glass a brilliant sunshine yellow with a hint of orange and a small bubbly white head. Bubbles rise up. Aromas of sun dried grains bathed in a farmhouse funk. Light mixed fruit, lemon juice and oak barrel scents alongside a nice hit of cognac. A touch of acidity. It all comes together brilliantly with an elegance unlike many other lambics.



First sip brings a bright mix of sweet and tart flavors with some fruit and lemon zest. Brett and cheesy barnyard funk take hold alongside woody tannins. Flows down with a mellow kiss of cognac and a lightly puckering sourness on the finish. Dry overall with a great mix of fruit flavors and light vinegar acidity. Well balanced and utterly delicious.

Mouthfeel is light and smooth with great carbonation. It goes down smooth and being that it is not overly puckering or acidic makes it refreshing and easy to drink. I think the cognac sweetness really rounds it out nicely. Overall, I wish I had a case of this beer as it is worth every penny. The lambic masters at Cantillon have done it again.

Overall this earns a rating of Amazing from me. Top notch stuff!

Check out the whole world of Cantillon beers and tradition by surfing over to http://www.cantillon.be/br/3_1