A Fermented Orchard in a Bottle: Cellador Chenille (Farmhouse Ale with Apple Cider Must)
The latest release from the collaborative minds at Cellador, Chenille is a captivating and unique Farmhouse Ale fermented with fresh-pressed apple cider must. This intriguing blend results in a beer that bridges the gap between traditional Belgian ales and crisp American ciders, creating a truly unique flavor profile.
Appearance
Chenille pours with a beautiful, deep amber hue, reminiscent of a crisp autumn afternoon. A persistent, fluffy white head sits atop the liquid, releasing tantalizing aromas with every burst of foam. The slight haze hints at its unfiltered, artisanal nature. The simple, elegant label on the bottle, featuring a stylized apple, perfectly reflects the nature of the beer within.
Aroma
The nose is a delightful medley of orchard and field. Prominent notes of freshly pressed apples dominate the foreground, subtly balanced by the earthy, spicy character typical of a well-crafted Farmhouse Ale. Hints of clove, white pepper, and a touch of barnyard funk mingle with a gentle caramel sweetness from the malt. The overall impression is one of rustic, sun-kissed fruits and fields.
Flavor Profile
On the palate, Chenille delivers a complex and satisfying experience. The attack is bright and lively, with a distinct tartness from the cider must that immediately grabs your attention. As the beer moves across the tongue, flavors of juicy, slightly caramelized apples unfurl, supported by a sturdy malt backbone. The farmhouse yeast contributes a layer of rustic complexity, with subtle phenolic spice and a dry, peppery finish. The finish is clean and crisp, with a lingering hint of apple skin and a gentle, warming sweetness.
Mouthfeel
Chenille has a medium body and lively carbonation, keeping it refreshing. The cider must add a subtle silkiness to the texture, balancing the inherent crispness. It’s a well-balanced beer that feels both substantial and drinkable, with a pleasingly dry finish.
Pairing Suggestions
Chenille’s versatility makes it a fantastic food companion. It would be excellent with hearty fall dishes like roast pork or butternut squash ravioli. Its crisp acidity and apple flavors also make it a natural pairing for a cheese board, particularly sharp cheddars and goat cheeses. For dessert, it would beautifully complement an apple crisp or a slice of warm peach cobbler.
Chenille is a highly successful and innovative Farmhouse Ale that showcases the potential of blending unexpected ingredients. It’s a perfect beer for autumn, offering a unique twist on a classic style. Whether you’re a fan of farmhouse ales, ciders, or just looking for something new and exciting, Chenille is well worth seeking out. Cellador has truly created a fermented orchard in a bottle.
Cellador Chenille is a limited-release beer, so be sure to track down a bottle (or two) before it disappears!