Apple Wit -- Brouwerij Corsendonk (Oud Turnhout, Belgium)

Oh my goodness. This is one special beer -- take whatever you know about apple cider and toss it in the trash bin. Honestly, it's akin to a drinkable apple pie filling. I've even had dreams about trying this beverage as the base for a vanilla (or dulce de leche) ice cream float.

Characteristics: Gold-straw cloudy color; light-to-medium carbonation; thin body; consistent mix of apple and cinnamon and nutmeg with the spices lingering in the finish.

Minor Gripes: it's a little thin, even watery at times (though that could also be the tap from which I was served). And at 3.1% ABV, this Apple Wit could stand a little more alcohol to add some heft.

Bottom Line: The wheat/wit base provides some depth that's missing from the standard apple ciders (Strongbow, Magners/Bulmers, Woodpecker, Woodchuck). If you like the idea of a lambic, hate Lindemann's, and are burdened with wheat/gluten allergies, then this is an excellent choice.

Rating: 6.75 / 10