Have you already discovered Celtus, an Estonian beer and Spinning Plates, from Tiny Rebel Brewery. Today, we’re introducing Delicatessen, a distinctive smoked beer from the innovative French brewery Sainte Cru.

Delicatessen – Sainte Cru Smoked Beer

Sainte Cru Brewery

Sainte Cru is 1/3 madness, 1/3 inspiration, and 1/3 non-conformism — delivering 100% flavour and creativity.

The story began in 2007, when three friends had the bold idea of drinking and eventually brewing craft beers that would truly surprise people. Over time, they refined their palates bottle after bottle, becoming increasingly demanding beer enthusiasts. Yet something was still missing — until the day they discovered IPA. This intensely hoppy beer revolutionised their vision of brewing.

From then on, they explored a wide range of styles, from Pale Ales and Black IPAs to India Pale Ales and DIPAs, moving away from more conventional beers. Inspired by American hops, they made them a central element of their brewing philosophy. Their first experimental 20-litre tank was soon followed by 100-litre batches, producing over 60 different brews. Production quickly increased to 600 litres, leading to the release of the first official beer from the Sainte Cru Brewery, “Tempête du Désert” (Desert Storm), a pale ale brewed with Columbus and Cascade hops delivering vibrant fruity and hoppy aromas.

Today, the brewery offers a wide and creative range of craft beers and has earned a strong reputation among beer lovers, including recognition in renowned beer selections such as Beery Christmas.

Rauchbier Style

Rauchbier is a traditional smoked beer brewed using malt dried and smoked over beechwood. This unique beer style has been a speciality of the famous Schlenkerla tavern in Bamberg, Germany, since 1678. Historically, many beers developed smoky characteristics during malt drying. When sunshine was insufficient, large wood fires were used to dry the malt, allowing smoke to pass through and infuse it with its distinctive flavour.

The smoky taste of Rauchbier differs significantly from roasted malt, which produces toasted notes rather than smoky ones. The intensity of the smoke varies depending on the type and quantity of smoked malt used, giving each smoked beer its own personality and complexity.

Delicatessen

Delicatessen by Sainte Cru is a refined interpretation of smoked beer. Behind its light amber colour lies a delicate and complex aromatic profile featuring woody and smoky notes. On the nose, the dominant aroma is smoke, enhanced by the use of oak chips. This distinctive woody character gradually gives way to lightly toasted malts, creating a harmonious balance.

On the palate, the beer reveals surprising smoothness and drinkability. Smoky notes take centre stage from the first sip, evoking subtle hints of smoked ham and gently accompanying the tasting experience. The smokiness then fades to reveal a round, slightly caramelised finish that lingers pleasantly on the palate.

Food Pairing

Delicatessen pairs perfectly with grilled or smoked red meats, barbecue dishes, and crispy fries. Serve in a tulip glass at a temperature between 6 and 8°C to fully appreciate its smoky aromas and balanced flavours.

Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health. Please drink responsibly.