Spirit Cruises January 2023 Leaderboard

Beer Review: De Struise Brouwers Pannepot

A close-to-perfect dark Belgian
by Mike Lorenz on Oct 4, 2011 in Beer
Beer Review: De Struise Brouwers Pannepot

De Struise Brouwers of the Belgium’s West Flanders region has stirred up a significant amount of attention in the Belgian craft beer scene. Loosely translated as “the sturdy brewers,” De Struise creates beer that stands out amidst a community with a deeply rooted and widespread malted grain culture. Pannepøt has been the microbrewery’s signature label since 2003. The beer’s name is an homage to the village of De Panne, known for its fishing community and the unique, dark brew enjoyed by the fisherman.

Poured into a small chalice from its 11.2-oz. bottle, Pannepøt emits a deep, dark brown color with a thin white head. As with many dark Belgian beers, rich fruits dominate the nose and taste of this brew. Subtle hints of spice tease at the front and, as you savor the contents of the bottle, reveal themselves fully towards the end of each sip.  Cherry, chocolate, licorice, coffee, figs and raisins all balance perfectly on the palate.

The panoply of sweet, sugary and spicy flavors might scare some away, but a refreshing hop bitterness balances out these flavors and keeps them from becoming too sweet or cloying. At 10% ABV, Pannepøt’s alcohol content is apparent in the taste, but never to the point of being obtrusive. For a heavier, dark beer, this brew is surprisingly refreshing, with a light amount of carbonation and a slightly creamy texture.

Pannepøt is a truly fantastic beer and a wonderful example of Belgian craft brewing. As with many stronger dark ales, it is bottle-conditioned and a great brew for aging. For this tasting I had a fresh, 2010 version of the beer but many different vintages are available at establishments offering aged brews. This beer is highly recommended and should be found at any bar dedicated to European craft beer.

Bonus: the company website doesn’t seem to be working anymore, but you can check out De Struise on Facebook (in English).

Recent Articles
spacer

Feedback

How are we doing? Tell us what you like or don't like and how we can improve. We would love to hear your thoughts!

*Name:
*E-mail:
*Suggestions:
 
Rittenhouse Goes Car-Free Every Sunday in September: Here are the Best Bars to Hit

Rittenhouse Goes Car-Free Every Sunday in September: Here are the Best Bars to Hit

Center City District will close the streets allowing pedestrians to enjoy outdoor seating, music, and activiti...read more ›

by Michelle Cryder Sep 6, 2024
Best Cocktail Bars at the Jersey Shore

Best Cocktail Bars at the Jersey Shore

We've rounded up all of the must-stop spots for sipping spirits by the beach, whether your vibe is dark and sexy or vibrant and divey....read more ›

by Drink Philly Aug 26, 2024
The Drink Nation Presents: The Home Bar Project

The Drink Nation Presents: The Home Bar Project

Have you ever dreamed of having an amazing home bar, filled with bottles you actually use and the tools you need to execute a fine crafted cocktail? E...read more ›

by The Drink Nation Nov 14, 2014
SPONSORED
Spirit Cruises January 2023 Desktop Bottom Rectangle 1
Behind the Bar: Jillian Moore of My Loup

Behind the Bar: Jillian Moore of My Loup

This time on Behind the Bar, we interview bartender and bar manager Jillian Moore of My Loup. We chat with her about her cocktail menu, the effects of...read more ›

by Drink Philly May 13, 2024
Oltremare: Inside Look at their Amalfi Coast Inspired Cocktails

Oltremare: Inside Look at their Amalfi Coast Inspired Cocktails

Oltremare is the newest endeavor by Chef Townsend Wentz, located at 2121 Walnut Street, near Rittenhouse Square...read more ›

by Drink Philly Apr 22, 2024
Best Bars for Outdoor Drinking in Philadelphia, 2024

Best Bars for Outdoor Drinking in Philadelphia, 2024

We've got your definitive list of where to drink outside in Philadelphia...read more ›

by Drink Philly Apr 9, 2024
Philadelphia Distilling Launching Secret Pop-Up Cocktail Garden for Earth Day, April 11-21

Philadelphia Distilling Launching Secret Pop-Up Cocktail Garden for Earth Day, April 11-21

Philadelphia Distilling is transforming their fourth floor space into a secret garden to celebrate Earth Day, ...read more ›

by Drink Philly Apr 9, 2024
Dizengoff: Inside Look at the New Reimagined Restaurant, Bar, & Cocktails

Dizengoff: Inside Look at the New Reimagined Restaurant, Bar, & Cocktails

Last year, Dizengoff and Abe Fisher decided to join forces and embark on an exciting new chapter. After closin...read more ›

by Drink Philly Mar 5, 2024
Behind the Bar: Tom Foy of Butcher Bar

Behind the Bar: Tom Foy of Butcher Bar

In this installment of Behind the Bar, we sit down with bartender Tom Foy of Butcher Bar...read more ›

by Drink Philly Feb 19, 2024
48 Record Bar: An Inside Look at an Audiophile's Listening Room & Cocktail Bar

48 Record Bar: An Inside Look at an Audiophile's Listening Room & Cocktail Bar

48 Record Bar is the newest addition to the growing Listening Room trend in Philadelphia...read more ›

by Drink Philly Feb 19, 2024
SPONSORED
Spirit Cruises January 2023 Desktop Bottom Rectangle 2
View all Articles

Sign up to get weekly drinking news, bar reviews, events and more sent directly to your inbox!

Close