Among the brightest signatures from Brasserie du Mont Blanc, the Cristal IPA offers an Alpine take on the India Pale Ale, focused on transparency and freshness. Brewed with spring water from the massif, this specialty beer marries floral and lemony aromatics with a dry, thirst-quenching backbone. Its secret lies in balance: a present but restrained bitterness, noble and American hops that carve the aroma without weighing down the palate, and a delicate effervescence that stretches the finish. Gluten-free and top-fermented, it delivers a clear, precise tasting experience—approachable for newcomers while enticing for seasoned enthusiasts. Generously presented in a 75 cl bottle, it invites sharing, convivial gestures, and fits a contemporary table where beer converses with gastronomy. Internationally recognized, notably at the World Beer Awards 2019, it embodies a modern, controlled vision of the IPA, marrying hop power with alpine purity.

Brewing and hopping

The Cristal IPA is produced following a top-fermentation protocol, ensuring aromatic relief and clarity. Mont Blanc spring water promises a crystalline texture. The noble Saaz hop, paired with a selection of American aromatic hops, sculpts an expressive profile built on florals and citrus. The hopping regime, carried out with precision, aims for accuracy rather than excess, delivering a moderate bitterness that supports the fruit without masking it. The result: a session-style IPA by its accessibility, yet decidedly indulgent in its complexity, ready to accompany the moment without overpowering it. Every step, from malt selection to temperature control, contributes to preserving the clarity of the sensation, yielding a straight, clean beer imbued with Alpine energy.

Tasting notes

• Appearance: Clear and luminous, lifted by fine effervescence that signals the freshness and precision of the blend.
• Nose: Airy floral expression, brightened by citrus touches evoking zest and ripe lemon, with a lively herbal hint.
• Palate: Clean attack, gently malty mid-palate, controlled bitterness that lengthens the finish. A straight, refreshing sensation that recalls the purity of high altitudes.

Serving temperature and tips

Serve the Cristal IPA between 3 et 5°C to preserve its tension and aromatic clarity. A tulip glass or goblet helps the hops to open up while maintaining freshness. Open the bottle at service time to capture the aromatic lift and pour smoothly, allowing a fine, even head to form. This session IPA is enjoyed both spontaneously at an aperitif and at the table, where its balance pairs with a wide range of dishes without dominating the conversation.

Food and beer pairings

• Aperitifs: herb fish rillettes, crunchy vegetables, lemon hummus.
• Seafood starters: citrus ceviche, sea bream tartare, delicate sashimi.
• Mildly spiced cuisine: green curry chicken, fish tacos, vegetable samosas.
• Cheeses: mountain tomme, young Comté, fresh goat cheese.
• Vegetarian dishes: lemon risotto, herb quinoa salad, grilled asparagus.

Moments to enjoy

The Cristal IPA is the inspiring companion for your convivial moments:

• To honour an aperitif with an alpine spirit, where freshness leads the way.
• During a modern dinner that celebrates pairings between hops and light cuisine.
• As a thoughtful gift for someone who appreciates well-crafted specialty beers.

Characteristics

• Name: Brasserie du Mont Blanc, Cristal IPA 75 cl
• Category: Specialty beers
• Type: India Pale Ale, session
• Alcohol: 4.7% vol.
• Fermentation: top-fermented
• Hops: Saaz and aromatic American hops
• Aromatic profile: floral, citrus, crisp freshness
• Bitterness: moderate, harmoniously integrated
• Gluten-free: yes
• Volume: 75 cl
• Serving temperature: 3 à 5°C
• Brewed with: Mont Blanc spring water
• Award: Gold medal, World Beer Awards 2019, Session IPA