Brouwerij De Glazen Toren is a tiny brewery in the Flemish portion of northern Belgium. What makes this brewery so unique is that they’re brewing authentic Farmhouse Saison-style beers. Traditionally Saisons are a Walloon specialty. De Glazen Toren’s Saison d’Erpe-Mere is an amazing interpretation of this classic style.
De Glazen Toren Lentebier is a special Easter version of their standard Saison d’Erpe-Mere. Traditionally a lent beer, “lentebier,” would have been brewed by monks as a stronger beer to provide some extra nutrition during the 40 day fasting period between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday. This special version of their standard Saison is double hopped in the boil and has a late addition of hop flowers grown locally in the Aalst region of Belgium.
Appearance: Hazy blond with a white head. Great retention.
Aroma: Spicy, floral hops (possibly lilac), clove, mossy/grassy hop notes, white pepper, pineapple, mango.
Taste: Slight grainy notes, touches of sugar (from the added liquid sugar), balancing acidity with a nice hop finish that lingers.
Overall Impression: This is a very effervescent beer. The high level of carbonation is refreshing and lends the beer a very creamy, velvety mouthfeel. All the various factors make this beer an ideal beer for just about any food match you can think of. The high carbonation will cut through fat on any rich dish while its lighter flavors will not overwhelm a delicate item. This is another phenomenally tasty Saison from De Glazen Toren. It is rather limited in its availability as a small production seasonal; I’d jump on it if you find a bottle.
Availability: Limited seasonal in small quantities. It’s imported by B. United, check with a store that carries their other products to see if they have this one.
6.9% or 9% ABV (The label says 6.9% but the paper wrapper says 9%. B. United lists its ABV at around 8.4%. I’m inclined to believe it’s closer to 8.4%/9% realm, so be warned.)
You can check out more of my De Glazen Toren reviews on my page dedicated to the brewery.