The Forbidden Fruit

My recommendation for pre-Xmas is De Verboden Vrucht (Dutch) or Le Fruit Défendu (French) ['the forbidden fruit' for the ones who do not speak either language]. It's a strong Belgian ale (8.8%). But let's listen to the experts:

Dark red-brown in colour with a loose, bubbly head, this well-known strong ale from Hoegaarden (now owned by Interbrew) has a delicate, fruity, malty nose with lots of red berries present, along with estery pear-drop aromas and a touch of sherbet. In the mouth it is initially lively and malty, but the malt soon develops more complex fruity notes, again with red berries predominant, although there is only a little sweetness. It is also worth noting that the strength is exceptionally well disguised, even for a Belgian ale. Finish becomes chocolatey and warming, though, leaving a chocolatey, fruity aftertaste. A stunning beer, somewhere near the dubbel style, but difficult to categorise comfortably. Fruity and complex, with a hidden kick. (Source: The Oxford Bottled Beer Database)

Cheers