Malbec BA Cassis

The portrait

Malbec BA Cassis is a bold creation that combines the world of craft beer with that of characterful wine. This brown ale aged in Malbec red wine barrels stands out for its hybrid approach, enriched by the addition of blackcurrant which amplifies the fruity dimension naturally present in this emblematic grape variety.

Visually, the beer likely has a coppery brown color with mahogany highlights, reflecting both the malting of the brown ale and the influence of the red wine. On the nose, as tasters describe it, we discover "a beautiful nose of marinated blackcurrant" that blends with the characteristic notes of Malbec - those aromas of "wild strawberries" typical of the grape variety. The visual aspect is described as "velvet ale, well-puréed fruit" according to one enlightened connoisseur.

On the palate, the experience is marked by "fruit and a nice acidity" . The well-marked acidity of the blackcurrant is skillfully counterbalanced by the smoothness of the brown ale, creating a subtle balance between liveliness and roundness. Black fruits dominate the aromatic profile, with that characteristic blackcurrant acidity bringing freshness and dynamism to the whole. One enthusiastic taster even exclaimed: "Fruit, no god!" , testifying to the fruity intensity of this creation.

With only 15 IBUs, Malbec BA Cassis clearly prioritizes fruitiness and the complexity brought by barrel aging over bitterness. This beer represents a beautiful exploration of the boundaries between brewing and winemaking.

The story

Malbec BA Cassis is part of the tradition of barrel aging , a technique that allows beers to acquire additional complexity by absorbing the aromas of the wood and the spirits or wines that previously occupied it. The choice of Malbec is not insignificant: this grape variety originating from Cahors, France, is renowned for its deep, almost black color and its intense aromas of black fruits such as plum, blackberry and – of course – blackcurrant.

By choosing to amplify these natural dark fruit notes of Malbec with the addition of blackcurrant, La Nébuleuse has created an aromatic resonance that enhances both the grape variety and the fruit. This approach demonstrates a keen understanding of aromatic profiles and a desire to build bridges between two fermented worlds: beer and wine.

Malbec BA Cassis is one of those ephemeral creations that marked the beginning of 2018, a period when the brewery multiplied its experiments with barrel aging. Presented notably at events like Paris Beer City (#PBC), it seduced enthusiasts in search of original taste experiences.

Food and beer pairings

With its intense fruity profile, its marked acidity and its complexity brought by aging in Malbec barrels, the Malbec BA Cassis called for creative pairings:

Red and Black Fruit Desserts : A red fruit tart (raspberry, blackcurrant, blackberry) or a cherry clafoutis would perfectly complement the fruity notes of the beer. A dark chocolate fondant with a blackcurrant coulis would also be divine.

Game : As brown ales and fruit beers traditionally pair well with strong meats, a wild boar stew or duck breast with red fruits would go wonderfully with this beer.

Cheeses : A mature Comté with notes of dried fruit or a blue cheese (Roquefort, Fourme d'Ambert) whose strength would stand up to the fruity intensity of the beer.

Charcuterie : A country terrine or a pâté en croûte, whose rustic side would harmonize with the tannins provided by the Malbec barrel.

Dishes in red wine sauce : Beef bourguignon or beef cheeks braised in red wine would create a nice complement to the wine notes of the beer.

The final word

Malbec BA Cassis will be remembered as one of those daring creations that transcended the boundaries between beer and wine. By marrying the character of a brown ale, the complexity of a Malbec cask, and the intensity of blackcurrant, La Nébuleuse has created a unique taste experience that demonstrates its technical mastery and boundless spirit of exploration. For those lucky enough to taste it during its brief appearance in 2018, it remains a fruity and velvety memory, proof that in craft brewing, the best creations often arise from the audacity to cross traditions.

Cheers! 🍻

The recipe