Tröegs Independent Brewing has announced the “director’s cut” of their seasonal Mad Elf Ale, a limited-edition Grand Cru version of the beloved holiday brew.
Much like its well-known counterpart, Mad Elf Grand Cru is crafted with a combination of chocolate, Munich, and pilsner malts, and a generous infusion of locally sourced Pennsylvania wildflower honey. The beer is fermented with the same distinctive Belgian yeast strain used in Mad Elf, resulting in the familiar flavors of cinnamon, clove, and allspice.
What sets Mad Elf Grand Cru apart is its exclusive use of Balaton cherries, which impart a distinct tart pie filling note to the brew. Despite sharing the same 11% alcohol by volume (ABV) as Mad Elf, this “director’s cut” edition pours a rich deep burgundy hue, creating a visually appealing contrast.
Chris Trogner, co-founding brother of Tröegs, explains the unique packaging choice, saying, “Putting this beer in cork and cage bottles helps give it that extra special touch. The corks are great at keeping pressure in and oxygen out. Since Grand Cru is a beer many people like to age, that’s a big plus.”
Mad Elf Grand Cru is available in limited 375-mL bottles and on draft at locations that serve Tröegs beer.