We’ve stated in other reviews that the Perfect Draft machine suits some kegs: Stella Artois is definitely one of those kegs. If you’re within an astronomical unit of perfect draft content then you’ll notice they choose Stella as the flagship brand. Stella came with my machine, and it’s a package worth considering because the Stella Chalice glassware that comes with it too is outstanding.
ABInBev went to great effort to rid Stella Artois of its “Wife Beater” image. They’ve ditched some of the ABV, so the “Wife Beater” 5.2% is down to a more respectable 4.6%. It’s a refreshing Belgian Pilsner and the consistency of the Perfect Draft machine suits it down to the ground. It’s a very drinkable pint.
It’s positioned in the mid 4% ABV wise and this is a very crowded section of the Perfect Draft lineup. I’d give anything to try it back at its original 5.2% ABV with Perfect Draft’s consistency. Unfortunately it just blends into the range a little as a result.
The Upshot
If you’re buying a Perfect Draft Machine solely to drink Stella then you’re not doing it right. It is very accessible, however. If you’re entertaining people with all sorts of different tastes then it’s a great middle ground.
It has that classic Stella golden straw colour which looks great in a glass. It’s a little bit fruity and a little bit grassy. Ultimately though, it is very crisp and refreshing. As previously mentioned, if you can get this in a pack with the glassware included then I strongly recommend that.
3.5* Nice Enougb but far from a classic.
