Stay True Pomme Deluxe

Style: Imperial gose with apple
Brewery: Stay True Brewing
Origin: Värmland
Size: 44cl
Alcohol: 9%
Price: 62kr
Systembolaget: 3028734

Stay True Brewing, based in Kristinehamn, has built a reputation for its modern and experimental approach to brewing, while also producing a range of spirits. Founded in 2020 by members of the punk band Misconduct, the brewery released its first beer to celebrate the band’s 25th anniversary. Gose is a traditional German sour wheat beer style known for its refreshing tartness, subtle salinity, and light coriander character, typically ranging from 3.5–5% ABV. This version takes the style in a much bolder direction, brewed as an imperial-strength Gose and enhanced with the addition of apple. Imperial Gose is still a relatively uncommon sight, and one brewed with apple even more so, making this a beer I was particularly curious to try.

In the glass, it poured a deep golden colour with virtually no head retention. In fact, it looked remarkably similar to apple juice, with a thick, slightly sticky body that clung to the glass when swirled. The aroma was moderately intense, showcasing tart green apple skin, salinity, gooseberry and a noticeable acidic edge. These characteristics carried directly into the flavour, where the green apple took centre stage. Despite its 9% ABV, the body provided enough weight to support the alcohol without it becoming intrusive. As the beer developed, the malt character emerged in the finish, creating a subtle apple pie-like impression as the fruit character gradually faded. A bright, zesty lemon note lingered at the end, helping to round out the overall flavour profile.

This was an excellent example of an imperial Gose, with all the style’s key characteristics clearly present while still offering something unique. It felt deceptively easy to drink for its strength, making it a rather dangerous beer in the best possible way. I thoroughly enjoyed it and am very glad I decided to take a chance on it.