Snow is beginning to engulf the northeastern United States, so needless to say I'm thrilled (THRILLED!) to be back home from a business trip to Washington D.C.
Travel always presents a number of challenges for us. Probably the toughest is holding true to our food values (eating locally, organically, and humanely). We usually opt for vegetarian, but will shove philosophy aside for the right temptation (how virtuous are we?!?). And while I was in D.C. this is all it took (photo credit):
Dr. Granville Moore’s has a fascinating history , but it was the many excellent Belgian beers and the moules that sold me and my friends Jerry and Rachel, who know a thing or two about beer and good food. Jerry sampled the Bleu moules, and we had to practically rip the bowl from his hands at the end of the meal.
"Moules?", you say. What the heck is a moule? Check it out... you can make them yourself at home! Just be sure you know how to buy them.
Now, on to the beers we tried:
2008 Schlafly Biere De Garde (as described by the brewery) is a bottle-conditioned, French farmhouse-style ale. The name refers to the beer's ability to improve with age and if you choose to age this ale, the tart fruitiness from the yeast and the sweet maltiness from the grains will meld together nicely for several years at cellar temperatures.
Schlafly Grand Cru (again, described by the brewery) has fruity, spicy aromas and flavors that contribute to the complexity of this golden-colored Belgian ale. Medium body and effervescence contribute to a light, dry impression, despite its strength and sweet, smooth finish.
Duchesse De Bourgogne is brewed by Verhaeghe, which was established in 1875 in a castle-farm in Vichte, West Flanders. Today it's still a family owned & run company. This traditional Flemish red ail is fermented in oak barrels for 18 months and blended with 8 months old ale before being bottled.
Each was extremely good and paired nicely with the food. My personal favorite was the Biere De Garde – it was vey smooth and went well with the flank steak and frites I had for dinner.
Okay, I may be happy to come home... but I certainly wouldn't turn up my nose at another trip to Dr. Granville Moore's!
Sounds delicious, and I too listen when Jerry recommends food and beer!
ReplyDeleteCarla Jean - It was a great time with good friends. Jerry seems to have a knack for pairing beer and food. Can't wait for the next beer dinner at the J Clyde.
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