Rince Cochon Blonde Ale -- n.v. Roman s.a. (Oudenaarde, Belgium)

I picked up this big brew (750 ml) at my local grocery store based largely on the strength of its label... I was well familiar with the "pink elephants" of Delirium Tremens, but the happy pink pig was a new one for me.

Characteristics: Slightly cloudy straw gold color, medium weight, plenty of sugar throughout with a little malt body and then a yeasty tang in the finish. 8.5% ABV is hidden in the sugar, no real burn to be found.

Minor Gripes: A touch too sweet -- it could actually use a little hop bitterness to cut the sugar rush.

Bottom Line: As Belgian golden/blonde ales go, this one just doesn't get the job done. I would probably look to La Chouffe or Delirium Tremens or something else next time around.

Rating: 5.5 / 10