Grande Barbe

The Grande Barbe “Great beard” is a wheat beer 5.5 % alc./vol. created in honor of Nicolas Denys (1598?-1688).

Appearance

Pale straw in color. A very thick, foamy, long-lasting white head. The high protein content of wheat impairs clarity as it is an unfiltered beer.

 

Aroma

Moderate phenols (usually clove) and fruity esters (usually banana). The phenol and ester components are reasonably balanced and fairly prominent. Noble hop character is low. A moderate wheat aroma (which might be perceived as bready or grainy) is present.

 

Flavor

Low banana and clove flavor. The phenol and ester components are reasonably balanced and fairly prominent. There is a somewhat bready or grainy flavor of wheat. Hop flavor is very low, and hop bitterness is very low.

 

Mouthfeel

Medium body. Suspended yeasts may increase the perception of body. The texture of wheat imparts the sensation of a fluffy, creamy fullness that may progress to a light, finish aided by high carbonation. It is effervescent. Very refreshing during the summer, especially with a slice of orange.

History

Nicolas Denys (1598?-1688) inaugurated wheat harvesting in Acadia and made plans for a flour mill and a microbrewery, as he wanted beer to substitute imported wine. We do not know a lot of what he looked like, except that he had a full white beard, reason why Micmacs referred to him as “La Grande Barbe.”