Kriek Lambic -- Brouwerij Lindemans (Vlezenbeek, Belgium)

Another anniversary, another lambic instead of champagne.  It's the one time a year we use the Waterford crystal flutes received as a wedding present from my godmother.  And this time I was successful in finding the kriek (cherry) instead of the framboise (raspberry), which was far too sweet for my liking (review). 

Characteristics: Ruby red color, thin body, high carbonation, sharp tart cherry start and some sweetness surging up from middle through the finish.

Minor Gripes: As with any Lindemans beverage, the Kriek can get a little sweet at times. And I'm not sure how much of the tartness comes from cherry and how much is a shot of citric acid.

Bottom Line: If you don't like champagne, kriek biers are a fine, stylish alternative.  I'd encourage you to look for a brand other than Lindemans, but the Kriek is far better than the Framboise in terms of what's most commonly available.

Rating: 5.5 / 10