Lambic: beer for real connoisseurs
The world of beer lovers is divided into two camps: some believe that there is no better beer than lambic, others are never ready to try it again. It's all due to a specific taste, which appears due to a special production technology. What is it all about?
The secrets of making
Lambic is a generalized name for a whole family of foamy drinks that are produced by spontaneous fermentation. The mash of unfermented wheat and barley malt is placed in an open vat and left to ferment in this form. Yeast is not used in this fermentation, as it is carried out by micro-organisms on the walls of the vessel and in the environment. They get into the ready mixture and cause fermentation - usually this process lasts no more than a week. But there is one thing: not all wild bacteria are good for making lambic, only the ones from the Senna Valley. That's where the special microflora has developed, which ultimately gives the product its unique flavor.
Experts love lambic for its uniqueness-as nature is impossible to fully control, the proportion of microorganisms that cause fermentation may vary from batch to batch. This means that each brewed batch of beer will be at least slightly different from the previous one.
But you should not expect any unpleasant surprises: despite the "wild" brewing process, brewers control it thoroughly at all stages. Only certain bacteria affect wort, which gives the finished product a characteristic taste: tart and sour, without obvious bitterness, with recognizable aroma notes - old leather, wet hay, horse blanket, which are in harmony with the smell of fresh fruit, wine vinegar and freshly baked pie.
What is it?
The lambic family varieties range from dry gueuze to faro, which has caramelized sugar added to it. Some varieties may also include fruits and berries. The most popular variety is kriek, made with the addition of fresh cherries with a bone, which gives the drink a unique fruit and nut flavor.
Also lambics can be raspberry, peach, strawberry, and currant - if the taste of the traditional drink seems too specific, fruits and berries will help smooth it out.
Even if the first acquaintance with lambic is not a success, it is worth trying it again, because it is like a cheese with a noble mold, which does not reveal all the richness of its flavor right away. It is important to have the right serving and the right appetizer - then you have a chance to join the army of connoisseurs of this unique drink once and for all. Come to Lambic Beer Restaurant - we will choose the right kind of beer for you and provide all the necessary conditions for you to get maximum enjoyment!
Japanese beer Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager
It is tacitly believed that the best beer is brewed in Europe — Belgium, Germany and the Czech Republic. However, there are other countries which produce high-quality foam, it is just that it is not so popular in Russia. For example, Japan. Connoisseurs will confirm: it is almost impossible to find tasteless beer in the land of the rising sun. On the shelves of Japanese stores there are both classic varieties and unusual labels. A bright representative of the latter is Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager. Let’s find out what exactly it is good for. Freshness and harmony The original Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager is brewed on the basis of Hitachino Nest Lager light lager, but with a secret ingredient. Yuzu juice, or Japanese citron, is added to the drink. Thanks to this fruit, the taste and aroma of the beer acquires characteristic citrus notes, refreshing sourness and piquant bitterness. In addition to yuzu itself, the flavor of Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager has notes of tangerine, grapefruit, malt and hops. And in addition to the citrus sourness, the full-bodied flavor also shows light malt notes. Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager is so refreshing and drinkable that it is often consumed without gastronomic accompaniment, as an aperitif. It is the perfect drink for hot weather or to quench thirst. This beer can also be served with light appetizers, salads and seafood. A bit of history If you want to delve more into Japanese beer culture, it’s also worth learning more about the maker of Hitachino Nest Yuzu Lager. This is a Kiuchi company founded by Kiuchi Nihei in the city of Naka in 1823. Initially, the company only produced sake, and later switched to other alcohols such as wine, liqueurs, and beer. In 1996, Kiuchi put beer production on stream by opening its own mini-brewery, Hitachino Nest. Hitachino is the old name of the province, which in ancient times was known for its fertile soils and abundant crops of grains from which excellent beer was brewed. Kiuchi products have repeatedly received prestigious awards at beer competitions and festivals, not only in Japan, but also abroad. The beer is appreciated for its excellent taste and quality, and the company itself is appreciated for its loyalty to tradition: since its foundation, for almost two centuries, it has been owned by the same family. Looking for a place to try Japanese beer in Moscow? Come to any Lambic beer restaurant. We have many interesting varieties that will pleasantly surprise you!
24 March 2025
Summer lambics: refresh yourself with a fruity beer from Belgium
When the thermometer is high, nothing is as refreshing as a cold beer. Especially if it’s lambics — a traditional Belgian sour beer with natural juice, which not only gives a pleasant coolness, but also pleases with deep flavor. Why fruit beer saves you in the heat Light sourness, sparkling «character» and juicy fruit notes make lambics an ideal drink for summer. Unlike heavy ales or bitter IPAs, fruit beers are easy to drink, almost like lemonade, but with a distinctive beer depth. It stimulates the appetite, quenches thirst and gives a feeling of freshness thanks to the natural juices in the composition — cherry, raspberry, peach or other fruits and berries. What to choose The best option for hot weather — sour lambics, which do not leave an unpleasant feeling of lusciousness, like a sweeter beer or soda. For example, the classic cherry Kriek MAX. The bright flavor of ripe berries and pleasant sourness make it perfect for a hot day. «Kriek» is not too sweet, with a slight tartness and a long aftertaste. If you like softer, sweeter options, Lindemans Pecheresse is your choice. This peach lambic has a honeyed and fruity bouquet, a light sparkle and velvety texture, and a slight acidity and refreshing note in the finish. A variant for cider lovers, but it’s still a lambic — Lindemans Apple. The drink has a bright rich taste, which perfectly balances the sweetness of red and sourness of green apples, pleasant aroma and refreshing aftertaste. Perfect for a hot day! How to drink lambics in the heat For a beer to be truly refreshing, proper serving is important. Lambics should be: — Cool down to 6-8°C — this will reveal all the nuances of flavor, but will not lose the freshness.— Serve in tall glasses — the flavor will «play». If desired, you can add ice to the drink, but do not get carried away — there is a chance to «dilute» the deep flavor of Lambic. And it is better to just have to go to Lambic! In our beer restaurants — a large selection of varieties from Belgium and other countries of the world. Proper serving of drinks, delicious food, cozy atmosphere and excellent service are guaranteed!
21 June 2025