While browsing my local distributor this weekend I came across a variety pack that was just shrink wrapped six packs for a reasonable price. After checking out the pack ,it turned out it was a Belgian variety of beers now produced by the craft brewer, Michigan Brewing Company.

Today, I decided to go for the Raspberry Fruit Beer, in keeping with the Spring feeling. Personally, I don’t mind a nice balance of fruit in my beer as it can accent food really well. The Celis brand of beer was originally developed and brewed by the same gentleman that created Hoegardden. He later sold the brand of Celis to Miller Brewing Company. Miller in turn ended up selling Celis to Michigan Brewing Company as it was not very profitable.

After opening the beer and taking the initial smell, it is apparent that raspberry is the main focus of the beer. I was a little taken back by the smell as it was pretty overwhelming. After getting past the fruit smell, there was a slight hint of maltyness to it. I poured the bottle into my pint glass to examine the color. The beer poured a golden orange color with very little head.

The taste alone was a sharp, bitter raspberry. The aftertaste ended with a slight hint of vanilla. I was not overwhelmingly impressed after just having the Red and White from Dogfish Head yesterday. Not entirely what I expected from the fruit beer but satisfied nonetheless.

I was content with the Celis Raspberry overall. If you need a raspberry malt brew, I would recommend this; however, if you have a choice to select another microbrew over this, may I suggest the later. The raspberry tasted forced. I am hopeful that the Celis White will improve my impression of the brews, as it is their flagship brew (review to follow). I just felt that this brew missed that traditional “beer” flavor.

Overall: 6/10