Brewery Ommegang is one of the original US breweries that specialized in Belgian-style ale. Now they’re owned by the Moorgat familybrewery of Belgium, which makes Duvel. Ommegang is still making amazing, traditional Belgian beer styles to this day.
Named after a famous Brussels area cafe, Rare Vos translates as “Sly Fox.” This beer would fall in the category of Belgian Amber or a Belge Speciale. This style was designed to be an easy drinking but still Belgian yeast flavored beer that would counter the rising popularity of European Pilsners at the beginning of the 20th Century. In Ommegang’s case, they’ve brewed this beer with coriander, orange peel, and grains of paradise.
Appearance: Amber, beige head, great retention.
Aroma: Caramel, malt, cloves, plantains, light pepper notes, touch of citrus.
Taste: Bready, caramel, spicy yeast.
Overall Impressions: Rare Vos is a very clean and drinkable beer with a nice, velvety mouthfeel. It’s very balanced with a nice mix of flavors and a solid undercurrent of “Belgian yeast.” It’s both easy drinking and flavorful, perfect for a nice spring day or for when you’re wanting something with Belgian flavor but you’re not looking for something with high alcohol.
Availability: Year round where Ommegang beers are carried.
6.5% ABV