This is the second time I have had this beer, and each time I fall more deeply, deeply in love with Rodenbach Grand Cru, a Flanders Sour style beer. I first sampled the Grand Cru at The Crest Gastropub in Columbus, OH. The main reason for trying the beer was that it was the most expensive on the menu ($10 for a 10 oz. pour), so I wanted to see what the buzz was about. 

The appearance of Rodenbach Grand Cru is a dark nutty brown/deep burgundy, with an inch of tan head. At first sip, the beer is extremely tart and malty, but then quickly turns acidic and sweet, with hints of dark cherries, citrus, apricots and warm caramel. The majority of my friends trying this beer were too overwhelmed by the sourness, but that was my favorite quality of Rodenbach Grand Cru.  The term “Grand Cru” is given to any Belgian style beer that the brewer feels is their masterpiece.  This beer lives up to its name and proves to be one of the best sour beers in the world.  It is only sold in 750 ml bottles from stores, at around $10-12 each, but in my opinion, it is well worth the cost.