BJ’s Brewhouse - Grand Cru 25th Anniversary

BJ’s Grand Cru 25th Anniversary presents a deep golden-amber hue in the glass, its pale appearance belying its robust strength. The pour is topped with an off-white, glistening head that gradually settles into intricate lacing along the glass’s edge. Even when the head subsides, gentle agitation brings it back to life, revealing the beer’s lively carbonation. The creamy lacing is particularly striking, resembling latte foam over a rich honey base when swirled.

Straight from the fridge, the aroma leans slightly sweet, so it’s best to let this beer warm to its ideal serving temperature. As it does, yeast-derived white-pepper phenols take the lead, joined by dry clove notes that lend a pleasing bitterness. This bitterness serves as the backbone for the beer’s complexity. Initially reminiscent of a Belgian-style tripel with assertive peppery tones, the aroma reveals layers that go far beyond expectations. Soft doughiness, hints of vanilla, floral honey, burnt sugar, and an occasional warming touch of ethanol create an enticing bouquet.

The flavor builds on this foundation, resembling a tripel elevated to new heights. While the signature peppery and bitter notes dominate upfront, the malt profile is richer and more complex than usual for the style. Notes of honey, herbal nuances, bright tangerine from the orange peel, and firm coriander interplay with a pronounced caramelized sugar character. This richness is balanced by vibrant carbonation, warming alcohol, and a consistent bitterness that reins in the sweetness, even as the beer warms toward room temperature.

The addition of orange peel and coriander provides a lift and smoothness, adding a citrusy brightness and nutty undertones to the palate. The maltiness transitions seamlessly from honey to cotton candy, dates, and sweet herbs, showcasing a dynamic yet harmonious character. As it finishes, balanced notes of pepper, honey, clove, and vanilla linger, leaving a refined impression of a well-crafted brew.

This beer is bottle-conditioned with live, dedicated yeast, allowing it to develop further with age. The brewer estimates that BJ’s Grand Cru will age gracefully for up to five years. Over time, the beer’s bitterness and robust character should meld beautifully with oxidative notes like dried caramel and sherry. Don’t hesitate to set a few bottles aside to experience its evolution—great things are expected from cellared versions.

For the bottles you do pop early on, we suggest trying them alongside dishes that will work well with those spiced notes: the bright orange citrus and warm coriander. Try this alongside glazed and grilled pork chops, citrus-marinated chicken, or a spiced apple pie.

The Microbrewed Beer of the Month Club’s connection with brewmaster Alex Puchner dates back many years. In 1994, Alex was brewing at what was then Laguna Beach Brewing. At the time, BJ's hadn't yet started brewing its own beer—it was still known as "BJ's Pizza & Grill." The beer industry as a whole was far less explored than it is today. With nearly a decade of homebrewing experience under his belt by then, Alex honed his craft at Laguna Beach Brewing, Newport Beach Brewing, Huntington Beach Brewing, and Westwood Brewing. During this period, Alex also served as a founding brewmaster on our club's selection panel, contributing invaluable expertise in Belgian-style brewing during our early years and helping shape the club's foundation.

Today, Alex serves as the Senior Vice President of Brewing Operations at BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse, and we've eagerly anticipated the opportunity to feature another of his exceptional beers for our members. Back in September 2011, we showcased Camaraderie Ale, a collaborative brew born from BJ’s partnership with Belgium’s Brouwerij Bavik. That first European collaboration was an overwhelming success, eventually earning Camaraderie a spot as a staple offering at BJ's locations across the country. This time, we’ve chosen the special 25th Anniversary Grand Cru, their annual crown jewel, celebrating the 25th anniversary of BJ’s Brewhouse.

We’ve really been enjoying the releases we’ve gotten to sample from BJ’s, and this month’s Grand Cru 25th Anniversary release is a standout. Elevated by Belgian yeasts and packed with generous specialty malts and floral hops for authentic flavor, this the perfect way to start the new year.

We’re thrilled to have Alex involved with the club once again. It’s been inspiring to see him continue refining his brewing craft over the years. We hope our members enjoy every sip of this full-bodied selection as much as we did. The BJ’s Grand Cru 25th Anniversary is available only through the BJ’s Brewhouse Beer Club and The Rare Beer Club.