NEW: Kasteel Rubus Framboise

Seasons aren’t what they used to be. But thanks to the Kasteel Vanhonsebrouck brewery, summer vibes can be enjoyed all year round. With all new Kasteel Rubus Framboise (7%) – made from real raspberries – the Izegem family brewery is introducing a brand new taste sensation.

Describing his latest innovation as the ‘beer of eternal summer’, brewery CEO Xavier Vanhonsebrouck explains that ‘like many people, I feel my best in summertime. The blazing sun and warm temperatures give your energy levels that extra boost. That’s why I wanted to create a beer that tastes like summer’.

In Rubus, with its bold, raspberry-driven flavour profile, Xavier and his brewing team have identified the true taste of summer. ‘For many, raspberries are their favourite red fruit. What’s more, raspberries grow best in sun-drenched climates, making it a true sun worshiper’.

Real raspberries

With its use of actual fresh raspberries, Kasteel Rubus Framboise is an incredibly beautiful beer, crowned with a lightly foaming, light pink head. When pouring, it’s like staring directly into a beautiful sunrise, while the aroma immediately transports you to summer. With a slight malty undertones on the nose, the ripe raspberries manage to stimulate all the senses.

When it comes to flavour, Kasteel Rubus Framboise screams summer. The flavour profile is a perfect balance of sweet, ripe fruit with subtle bitter undertones. The finish offers a fruity, dry note, giving the beer a smooth, easy-drinking quality.

Next big thing

It’s long been proven that the summer raspberry flavour is a hit. In early February, the sales team travelled to the Horecabeurs trade fair in Bredene. In addition to the established Kasteel beers, the team also served the new Kasteel Rubus Framboise. And, as Xavier can tell you, those kegs were empty in no time.

‘The response has exceeded our wildest expectations. That’s why we’ll soon start organising numerous launch events for the hospitality industry, as well as for beverage retailers across Belgium. We want to completely immerse our customers in the summery vibes of our Kasteel Rubus Framboise. As for our neighbouring countries, they’re also eager to get a taste of the next big thing.’

In Belgium, the Netherlands and France, the retail and hospitality sectors are eager to make Kasteel Rubus Framboise the next big thing.

Xavier Vanhonsebrouck

Constantly innovating

‘With Kasteel Rubus Framboise, the Vanhonsebrouck brewery is reasserting its authority on the strong fruit beer scene. ‘When Kasteel Rouge was launched in 2007, it was met with derision. Today, other breweries are trying to emulate the original Rouge flavour, while we have continued innovating’, says Xavier.

The brewery is now using its reputation, built on the original Kasteel Rouge, to offer consumers an all new taste experience. ‘Innovation is deep-rooted in our brewery’s DNA. We never stop brewing, and we never shy away from bringing something new to the market. This is how we’re able to keep the beer landscape vibrant, continuing to offer consumers the best possible beer experience.’

Today, the brew kettle in Izegem has been filled to the brim with raspberries, and we can’t wait to see what concoctions the future may bring.