This brewery is known for the exotic and hits its mark with a classic. A Classique, even. How much cooler can you get?
So much more, when taking into consideration that Stillwater Artisanal's Head Brewer is a former world renowned techno DJ. Baltimore native Brian Strumke determined that his odd and innovative concoctions of home brew should be shared with the world, and decided to open the doors to Stillwater in 2010. But to keep the mystique, and due to the fact that he was "wary of startup costs for a full-blown brewery," Strumke began his nomadic quest to create great beer, journeying to breweries around the world to make delicious small-batch beers. He has been lauded by critics and beer-snobs alike for his amazing takes on beer; and in that same year of his opening, Stillwater garnered the number two rank of "Best New Brewer in the World" from Ratebeer.com. Since then, they have continuously picked up awards and accolades wherever their beer travels.
So stepping into taste Classique would make one assume there would be some revolutionary new twist on the classic Belgian style. But what we have instead is a perfection of the craft. The nose is perfect--exactly what you'd hope for in a Belgian. The taste is spot on as well, and somehow still betters the recipe by making the mouth feel less abrasive. The flavors hit all of those quality Belgian notes, bringing in the lemony citrus, and the sweetness of the malt. What we're left with is a stunning example of a brewer who loves his trade, and loves his craft. There is also a sharpish aftertaste, which somehow compliments the beer.
Stillwater is currently working on a collaboration with Bluejacket Brewing in Washington DC. This reviewer can say he's truly excited for the outcome.
