Paranoia Rouge comes from Huyghe, the Belgian brewery behind the Delirium range, and it takes a deliberately different direction from the pale, hoppy AF beers that dominate the category. The colour alone signals this: deep garnet red with a faint pink tinge to the foam. The nose is straightforward and honest about what it is. Cherry upfront, a little almond, a background sweetness that does not try to be subtle. On the palate the cherry follows through as expected, but there is a light acidity that keeps it from tipping into cordial territory. The finish is clean and the carbonation sits at a moderate level throughout. This is closer in spirit to a Belgian kriek than anything resembling a conventional bitter or lager. It is not trying to pass as something it is not, which makes it easier to enjoy on its own terms.