Duchesse De Bourgogne Recipe

Chill glass (optional)

If you prefer a colder serving, place a tulip or goblet-style glass in the freezer for 10–15 minutes or fill it with ice cubes and cold water while you prepare the beer. Discard ice/water before pouring.

Pour base beer

Hold the glass at a 45° angle and gently pour 330 ml (0.33 l) of the Flemish red ale down the side to minimize aggressive foaming. Aim for a smooth pour that fills most of the glass but leaves room for the lambic.

Add lambic

Slowly pour 170 ml (0.17 l) of the sweet lambic (framboise or similar) down the center of the glass. Pour gently so the lambic mixes slightly with the base beer but still preserves a layered, balanced appearance and effervescence. The traditional ratio is about 2:1 red ale to lambic.

Settle and top

Allow the beers to settle for 15–30 seconds. If excessive foam develops, wait for it to subside rather than forcing it down. The resulting cocktail should have a pinkish, deep garnet hue and a modest head.

Garnish and serve

Express an orange twist over the surface to release oils, rub the rim lightly with the peel if desired, then drop the twist into the glass. Serve immediately while effervescent and cool.