De Molen Barrel Aged Calvados Edition 2023 Strong Saison Craft Beer 33 cl 13.1%

Calvados and Saison sound like an odd couple - Normandy apple brandy meeting Belgian farmhouse ale. At De Molen, it becomes something else entirely.

Expert description of De Molen Barrel Aged Calvados Edition 2023 Strong Saison

Calvados Edition 2023 is a powerful Strong Saison at 13.1% from the Dutch brewery De Molen, aged in barrels that previously held Calvados - French apple brandy from Normandy. The barrel ageing adds distinct apple and pear notes plus a warm, brandy-like depth on top of the Saison style's characteristic spice and dry, yeasty freshness.

De Molen is a Dutch brewery from Bodegraven, founded in 2004 by Menno Olivier and named after the historic windmill "De Arkduif" from 1697, where the brewery is based. De Molen is known internationally for intense, boundary-pushing specialty beers and an ambitious barrel-ageing programme - but the brewery ceased production on 1 October 2025, making these bottles part of the last vintages it will ever brew.

Tasting Notes

Aroma

Ripe apples, pear and a hint of brandy warmth, with spiced yeast notes in the background.

Taste

Dry and spiced with distinct apple and pear character from the Calvados barrel, carried by the Saison yeast's peppery complexity.

Finish

Long, dry and warm with a lingering hint of apple brandy.

Specifications

Name: Calvados Edition 2023
Brewery: De Molen
Country/Region: Netherlands
Beer style: Strong Saison (Barrel Aged)
ABV: 13.1%
Size: 33 CL
Cask type: Calvados barrels
Malt: Barley malt, wheat malt
Ingredients: Barley malt, wheat malt, oat flakes, hops, yeast, water
Allergens: Gluten (barley, wheat, oats)
Best before: 15/12/2027
EAN: 8717624425974
Serving suggestion: 10-14°C in a wide tulip glass or snifter

Flavour Profile

Spiced · Fruity · Barrel-aged · Dry

Did You Know?

De Molen ceased all production on 1 October 2025, making Calvados Edition 2023 one of the last experimental barrel ageings the brewery ever released.

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Frequently Asked Questions about De Molen Calvados Edition 2023 Strong Saison

Is Calvados Edition 2023 worth the money?

Yes, both for the flavour and the rarity. The combination of Saison and Calvados barrel ageing is unusual, and with De Molen's closure it only becomes rarer over time.

How rare is this beer?

Very. De Molen has ceased all production, so this batch is part of the brewery's very last releases.

What does Calvados Edition 2023 taste like?

It tastes of apple, pear and spiced yeast notes, with a dry, warm finish marked by the Calvados barrel.

What food pairs well with Calvados Edition 2023?

It pairs well with mature cheeses, apple-based desserts, or works as a digestif on its own after a meal.

What temperature should it be served at?

Serve it at 10-14°C in a wide beer glass or tulip glass, ideally in small pours.

Can Calvados Edition 2023 be stored for a long time?

Yes, this batch is best before 15/12/2027, and at 13.1% ABV it can easily be cellared for several years when stored cool and dark.