Fieldwork Brewing ‘Chloe’ Belgian Pale Ale

Rating:

Our first foray into the realm of classic Belgian beers is Chloe, a crisp ester-driven ale with a prickly carbonation and complex flavor profile that is far too drinkable and well worth the wait. The Belgian yeast we chose is a blend of two different classic strains that have a track record of making some of the best beers in the world longer than we have been alive, and luckily for us they work flawlessly together in fermentation matrimony. An all-Belgian malt grain bill lays the foundation for a delicately complex combination of new world hops and yeast-derived flavors.

Glassware: Tulip.

Appearance: Bold amber with a mild haze. It forms a short white head which quickly retreats to the rim. Lovely cascading lace as we imbibe.

Aroma: Far from what we’d usually expect from Fieldwork. It displays a very classic European hop profile i.e florals, fresh cut grass, herbals and mild earthy-ness. Picking up the delicate yeast esters too…slight musky, rosewater and Angostura bitters. As she warms the orange citrus and candied lemon begin to open up. Subtle yet tonnes of character.

Flavour: Spruiking the musky and floral yeast esters here, big time. To the point where it almost comes off as a Saison. Kinda spicy, funky, barnyard and herbals then the pithy citrus arriving late. Somewhat dry and grainy/husky with a grassy and mildly bitter finish.

Mouthfeel: Crisp and a little dry. Some tartness also creeping in. Light-moderate body, finely carbonated. The 6.2% ABV is nicely placed.

Overall: It’s certainly out of the left field but we tell ya what.. they’ve done a magnificent job balancing everything together while keeping the beer – as a whole – light on and somewhat restrained. Very pleasant though.