This is one of these places that doesn’t get enough attention, in my opinion. Pretty much everything they do is spot on. This Double IPA was a limited-edition release for the DBSQ (an association for retail stores selling craft beers in Quebec). I had it first when it came out in April 2018 and it was really good. What a surprise it was when I heard they were going to brew another batch! I couldn’t help myself but to buy it again.
“…a near perfect mouthfeel and plenty of new-world hop aromas.”
Le P’tit Prince
Brewed by: Les Grands Bois
Type: Double India Pale Ale
Region: Saint-Casimir, Quebec, Canada
ABV: 8.0%
IBU: N/A
Hops: N/A
Cereals: N/A
Appearance: 8/10
The can comes with a beautiful label design although very little information is available on the beer itself except for the style, the ABV & a brief description. I have a weakness for cans because, in my opinion, it’s the ultimate vessel for hoppy beer in order to prevent skunky aromas brought by UV rays. The liquid is deep gold, moderately hazy with a large cloudy white head that lasts all through the tasting, sticking to the glass and forming a beautiful lacing.
Nose: /15
First off, I get floral aromas such as rose petals, dried chamomile & orange blossoms. Then various fruits make their way through, lending notes of sour cherries, peach juice, tangerine & overripe cantaloupes as well as candied lemons & pineapple. A greener profile is also quite noticeable with cedar wood & pine needles. A subtle spicy bouquet of cumin, ginger & cloves appears every now and then. I get a faint malt presence reminiscent of caramel & white bread crumbs.
Mouth: /15
The high ABV as well as the hop residue & the cereals’ proteins make a thick oily texture & a full-bodied beer. The mild effervescence, the moderate sweetness, not to mention the sticky & powerful bitterness are all pretty typical for DIPAs. However, what matters is the harmony between these elements & Le P’tit Prince is a good example of great balance in intense beers. I detect a faint acidity that is barely perceptible, which is rather uncommon trait, yet it comes in quite nicely & sorts of blend in with the citrus & tropical flavours.
Finish: /10
I always expect an everlasting finish in strong beers due to either the sweetness, the bitterness or the powerful aromas. I wasn’t disappointed with this DIPA as it lasts for several minutes with intense bitterness & a complex fruit salad flavour.
Overall: /100
I really liked this beer last year when it was released & I have to admit, although this year’s batch was more than good, I do remember having a better experience the first time. All in all, it is still an amazing DIPA with a near perfect mouthfeel and plenty of new-world hop aromas.
3-word Description:
Aromatic, Sweet & Heavy.
The Reference:
More Information @lesgrandsbois.com
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