Biere De Garde – 6.2%
Literally meaning “Beer to keep”, this is a stronger cousin to Saison in some ways, but has quite a different character. It was brewed traditionally in northern French farmhouses and given a maltier and more complex flavour edging more towards a Belgian Dubel. As the name implies, it will mellow and soften with age, gaining more subtle complexities. When drunk younger it’s got caramel malt, spicy yeast and a hint of savoury dryness. Keep it for 6 months or so for even more of a treat!
MUSIC PAIRING
Late 90s French House & Lounge Vibes
Back in the late 90s there was a bit of an explosion of loungy French house, electronica and downtempo music. Artists like Air, Daft Punk, Étienne De Crécy and St.Germain were making a big impression in the post-trip-hop underground. Before long Daft Punk and Air had crossed over in the UK with hits like Da Funk, Around the World and Sexy Boy. They brought a retro groovy muted tinge of easy listening that fitted the premillennial times.
This vibes fits beautifully with the mellow complexity of Biere de Garde, bringing a soft fuzzy warmth and subtle strength.
Therefore suggested listening to go with Avante Garde bold would be….
Moon Safari by Air – their full debut LP. More polished that their early downtempo instrumentals Modular Mix and Cassanova 70 but still with an underlying retro warmth. Highlights include the beautiful opening intrumental La Femme d’Argent and iconic Kelly Watch the Stars.
Super Discount by Étienne De Crécy – including contributions and mixes by Air and Alex Gopher. This ranges from epic downtempo atmospherics to banging psychedelic French house. A great summation of what was on offer from the French scene at the time.
Tourist by St.German – a slightly later jazz infused masterpiece. Sampling from classic Blue note recordings and bringing talented jazz musicians in to fuse them with house music.