Which type of beer is characterized by dark malty fruitiness and some caramel notes?

Flanders Brown/Oud Bruin is a style that exemplifies the characteristics of dark malty fruitiness, which comes from the use of caramel malts and extended aging processes that develop complex flavors. This beer is typically brewed with a rich malt backbone, often exhibiting notes of dark fruits like raisins and cherries, along with hints of caramel sweetness. The combination of malt complexity and fruity esters is prominent in this style.

During fermentation, wild yeast strains and sometimes bacteria contribute additional layers of flavor, enhancing the malt character with slight sourness, which is often present in these styles. The balance of malt sweetness, fruitiness, and occasional acidity defines Flanders Brown/Oud Bruin, making it distinct from the other styles listed.

In contrast, Gueuze is a blend of young and old lambics, resulting in sharp, tart flavors rather than the smooth maltiness of Flanders Brown. Lambics are primarily fermented spontaneously and highlight wild yeast profiles and fruity notes without the deep caramel characteristic. Biere de Garde tends to focus on maltiness as well but generally exhibits a lighter body and less intense dark fruit flavors compared to Flanders Brown.