Review: Delirium Tremens
My favorite beer is Delirium Tremens. It’s branding is dead-on - an obviously Belgian pale ale with a rich history of over 20 years under the Delirium name, rooted in the beer-making tradition of past generations that also manages to exist as perfectly modern and provocative.
The name of the brew comes from the withdrawal symptoms experienced by alcoholics - a charming mix of hallucinations and uncontrollable shaking. One of the most storied hallucinations experienced by these unfortunately-circumstanced drinkers is a vision of pink elephants - and thus Delirium Tremens found its mascot and logo. The brand’s name was so offensive that it broke liquor laws prohibiting the promotion of binge-drinking and had to be sold under the name “Mateen Triple” when first imported to the USA and Canada. Delirium further differentiates itself with a ceramic-coated bottle and champagne-like cork opening system - adding class and intrigue to the already-controversial product’s image.
Despite getting away with a brand position that most hard-liquor companies (especially those based out of the USA) would still have quite a difficult time executing - Delirium also delivers on the product front. It has been noted as the best beer in the world by several different panels since its inception in 1989 and it stands out from the crowd with its high alcohol content (8%-9%, nearly twice as much as the pale beer we’re used to drinking here in the states) and living-yeast fermentation process. This unique form of beer-making allows the ale to continue to ferment once bottled in its signature ceramic-coated casing - adding an additional depth of flavor and complexity.
When served cold out of the bottle and into one of its signature pink-elephant balloon glasses or, if you’re lucky enough to find it, on draught - Delirium is arguably one of the best and most refreshing beers on the market today.
Imbibe responsibly.
