Let’s talk about lagers—not just any lager, but a French farmhouse-style lager brewed right here in Puerto Rico. Say hello to Calé Bière de Garde, Cervecería del Callejón’s only bottled beer and the brewery’s sole lager. It’s a tribute to both Old World brewing traditions and Puerto Rico’s evolving culinary scene.
Brewed in collaboration with Bohemia Cocina en Movimiento, this special release was crafted to pair beautifully with the immersive dining experience at Finca Siempre Viva in Cayey. Think of it as a love letter to thoughtful craftsmanship—in both beer and cuisine.
What is a Bière de Garde, Anyway?
Hailing from northern France, Bière de Garde translates to “beer for keeping.” It’s the elegant cousin of the Belgian Saison—a malt-forward farmhouse beer with a dry finish and a touch of noble bitterness. While farmhouse in origin, today’s versions are often fermented with lager yeast, giving them a crisp character and refined fizz. stays true to the style, but adds its own Caribbean swagger.
What’s Inside the Bottle
The base? A clean combo of Pilsner, Munich, and wheat malts. The result? A smooth, malty backbone with hints of roasted grain and toasted bread. But what really turns heads here are the French hops. Strisselspalt and Mistral lend a soft lemon zest aroma, lifting the beer into refreshing, slightly fruity territory.
You get that farmhouse depth—but with finesse. It pours a glowing amber, has medium body, and brings just enough bitterness to balance the sweetness.
Flavor Notes: Rustic Meets Refined
- Nose: Bright lemon, wild herbs, fresh bread
- Taste: Toasted malt, hints of stone fruit, mellow bitterness
- Mouthfeel: Crisp, lightly effervescent, clean finish
Calé Bière de Garde is Made for the Table
Clocking in at 4.5% ABV and 20 IBUs, Calé Bière de Garde is smooth, crisp, and incredibly drinkable. The restrained bitterness and clean finish make it a refreshing companion to rich, savory dishes—exactly what you’d want at a long-table feast at Finca Siempre Viva.
Final Sips
Calé Bière de Garde isn’t just another beer release. It’s a celebration of slow-crafted beer, shared meals, and the rich intersection of Puerto Rican terroir and European tradition. Bottled and limited, this is one to savor—or cellaring if you’ve got the patience. But honestly? We’re popping ours open tonight.
Graphics by @localghostpr
Photo: Cervecería del Callejón
