Quality Belgian Trappist ale here. There are only very few select breweries in the world that can brew this beer, and this brewery is one of the best at it, it’s what makes it so good.
Served in a beer tulip the muddy, tawny/copper pour constructs a 1 and a half finger beige head that peels off but maintains at about a 5mm cap. Healthy lace. Loads of caramelised, toffee-like aromas initially but with tangy stone fruits like apricot and raisin coming through to balance out. Also quite heavy on the dark, sweet fruits such as prunes, fig and plum that compliment the earthy spices of clove and nutmeg. Maybe a hint of fleshy pear in here too. Nice…really complex and exciting way to kick this off. In the mouth it’s smooth and oily with mild-medium carbonation. The body is light but still fairly grippy. Following on from the aroma is a delicious combination of caramel, apricot and spice upfront. Dark fruits stand up through the mid leading to a heavily sweet, sugary finish with fresh pear on the back palate. Some light alcohol warmth is felt in the finish but for a 7% ale it’s really well disguised. Damn these Belgians have really mastered their craft, we have had some good attempts at a Dubbel from non-Belgian brewers but they don’t come close to this. The original, and the best.