Lord of the manor, larger powers, or independent.  All of these words could be used to describe Unibroue’s position in the Canadian market.  Really, I gave you the definition of what the word Seigneuriale means, although it could be what this brewery is.  Unibroue is located in French Quebec Canada and is a fairly sizable operation that makes several millions in sales (close to the area of ten million).  Unfortunately, they are now owned by Sleeman, the lackluster beer maker of Canada, which is actually owned by Sapporo.  But don’t assume guilt by association.  They are, in fact, a very independently minded brewery.

If you have ever had or seen any of Unibroue’s beers, you will notice that they use pretty thick bottles.  The reason is because they are firmly Belgian in their brewing tradition, using Belgian candy sugar and putting their beer on lees (fresh yeast in the bottle).  Everything they make is, at the minimum, worth a try. Seigneruriale is 7.5% ABV and is considered a strong amber ale.  Unibroue suggests pairing their beer with carved ham, apricot glazed duck or squab, thai shrimp curry or holiday fruit cake.  Maybe give it a try with one of these things.  Personally, I think that this would go well with thick chops with a a cinnamon spiced rub cooked in some of the beer (make a reduction with the liquid when the chops are out).  That sounds really good.  On to this beer.

The Pour: I would describe the pour as a reddish-orange maple that had a slight haze to it.  Typical of Belgian style beers, it was very effervescent and finely carbonated.  In addition, also characteristic of Belgians, there was a nice fluffy head on the brew.

The Nose: If you don’t smell touches of candy on a beer brewed in Belgian style, walk away from the thing. Gladly, this beer made the cut.  Hints of a powdery yeast strain were also fairly prominent on the nose.  Also like most Unibroue offerings, there were some vinous (wine like) qualities, along with hints of apple fruitiness.

The Taste: Very slight apple fruits, which paired well with the residual sweetness (the candy sugar tastes), came through during the tasting.  That powdery yeast became a noticeable spicy bite. The alcohol level was fairly well hidden but detectable.  I want to note, contrary to the normal Unibroue beer experience, that this offering had a bit of a hop bite, especially on the finish.  I detected a cooked vegetable touch on the end, which is never good in my book, but it wasn’t overpowering.

Overall, this beer is good but not the pinnacle of Unibroue’s selection.  I am still convinced that Trois Pistoles is the best beer they make.  At any rate, the vegetable quality on the end lost some points, and I also think that beer could have been a little more robust.  Still, their owner, Sleemans, does not hold a candle to even this beer.

Mike’s Rating:

Overall Satisfaction: ★★★½☆ 

 

Among other Unibroue products: ★★★¼☆ 

 

Among other Belgian Styles: ★★★☆☆