Kriek is a traditional Belgian fruit beer crafted from lambic and fermented with cherries. Its origins trace back to the Pajottenland region of Belgium, where lambic is brewed and aged in oak barrels. By adding cherries, the beer develops a vibrant fruity character and a rich red hue. Lambic, the base for kriek, is one of the oldest beer styles, renowned for its method of spontaneous fermentation. Unlike most modern beers, which rely on cultivated yeast strains, lambic is exposed to wild yeast and bacteria naturally present in the region's air. This process imparts a signature tartness and complex aroma.
The creation of kriek begins with brewing lambic. Once the lambic is brewed, it is aged in oak barrels, where spontaneous fermentation occurs. When the lambic reaches the desired maturity, cherries—often with their pits—are added to the barrels. The fruit interacts with the beer, introducing natural sugars that trigger secondary fermentation. This process can take anywhere from several months to a few years, depending on the desired flavor and aroma profile.
The result is a beer with a deep red color and a vibrant, fruity taste. Kriek strikes a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, with distinctive notes of cherry and almond derived from the fruit's pits.