Pineapple Basil

The portrait

Pineapple Basil represents a bold foray by La Nébuleuse into the world of flavored wheat beers. This original creation revisits the classic witbier style by incorporating two ingredients as surprising as they are harmonious: tropical pineapple and aromatic basil.

This wheat beer stands out for its immediate freshness and thirst-quenching character. The fruity notes of pineapple bring an exotic sweetness that is evident from the first sips, while basil adds refreshing herbaceous touches. The balance between these two ingredients creates a beer that is both approachable and enjoyable, perfect for sunny days.

With its moderate alcohol content of 4.5%, Ananas Basilique is the perfect session beer, light in body yet rich in flavor. Served chilled, it offers an invigorating taste experience where tropical and herbaceous aromas dance in harmony.

History & Innovation

Pineapple Basilique reflects the creative and sometimes audacious spirit that has characterized La Nébuleuse since its inception. This beer is part of a tradition of experimentation that has always been central to the philosophy of the brewery founded in 2014 by Arthur, Kouros, and Jeremy.

The pineapple-basil combination may seem surprising at first, but it reveals a subtle understanding of aromatic pairings. Basil, with its notes of eugenol (an aromatic molecule also found in cloves), finds a natural partner in pineapple, creating a synergy that goes beyond a simple juxtaposition of flavors.

This beer was primarily served on tap during 2018, notably in establishments such as the WhiteFrontier Taproom, La Cantine de Sauvabelin, and Le Pibar. It was part of a range of experimental creations that didn't hesitate to challenge conventions, to the point that some commentators at the time humorously mentioned the potential return of other audacious creations from the brewery.

Food and beer pairings

Pineapple Basil, with its fruity, herbaceous and refreshing profile, lends itself wonderfully to summer and exotic combinations:

Asian cuisine : This beer finds its ideal partner in Thai and Vietnamese cuisine. Thai chicken with basil, spring rolls with fresh herbs, or a shrimp bo bun create pairings where the beer's herbaceous flavors resonate with those of the dish. Mild, unspiced curries also benefit from this beer's tropical freshness.

Mixed salads : Summer salads topped with tropical fruits (mango, pineapple), fresh goat cheese and aromatic herbs (mint, basil, coriander) harmonize perfectly with the profile of this white beer.

Seafood and fish : Grilled shrimp, citrus ceviche, or white fish tartare find in Pineapple Basil a refreshing accompaniment that respects the delicacy of their flavors while bringing an exotic dimension.

Tapas and aperitifs : An assortment of lightly spiced tapas, chicken satay skewers, or vegetarian samosas make excellent companions for this thirst-quenching beer.

Light desserts : A panna cotta with exotic fruits, a tropical fruit salad, or a pineapple and basil sorbet harmoniously extend the taste experience.

The final word

Pineapple Basil remains in our memories as one of those bold creations that characterize La Nébuleuse's DNA. Although it's no longer part of their regular lineup, this beer illustrates the brewery's constant desire to explore unexpected aromatic territories.

For those lucky enough to have tasted it during past summers, it evokes those moments when we dared to stray from the beaten path, when creativity triumphed over convention. A legacy of audacity that continues to inspire La Nébuleuse's current creations and reminds us that, sometimes, the best surprises come from the most unlikely combinations.

Cheers! 🍻

The recipe