(Picture from globalbeer.com)

The Petrus line of beers was created by the Bavik Brewery in the mid-1980′s to celebrate their 100 year anniversary in 1984.  To this day, Bavik is a family owned brewery and because of their success, one of the largest independent breweries in Belgium.  This line includes the Oud Bruin, a Wood-Aged Pale Ale, Tripel, a Winter Ale, and a Belgian Speciale.  Brouwerij Bavik also brews Bavik, a pilsner, and Wittekerke, a Belgian wit.  The Bavik link above leads to their Belgian website which is available in Flemish or French.  Their US importer, Global Beers, has a solid translation of their materials at globalbeer.com.

Like Flemish Reds, Flemish Oud Bruins are a blend of old wood-aged beer and young beer, which is added to help balance the sourness and flavor.  While the beer styles are similar, they aren’t the same.  The Reds have a much more intense brettanomyces character and are a bit lighter in color.  The bruins are darker with more caramel like flavors and lack the barnyard character that is typical of brett.

Appearance: Brown with ruby highlights.  Tan head with solid retention.

Aroma: Bing cherries, plums, prunes, brown sugar with light notes of toffee.

Taste: Dried dark fruits with just a hint of roasted grains or coffee.  A nice, but light bit of tartness and a really velvety mouthfeel.

Overall Impression: This is a very enjoyable beer, especially at the friendly price point.  It’s a very nice example of a Flemish Oud Bruin.  If  you get a chance, open it side by side with a bottle of Rodenbach Original so you can truly test the differences between the Red and the Bruin.

Availability: Nationally at shops that carry good Belgian beers.

5.5% ABV