An undemanding, but in my opinion not particularly rewarding, Dubbel with a chestnut brown appearance, predominantly malty nose, chocolate/caramel flavour profile with some fruit and a well-balanced finish that drinks thinly for its strength.
Nothing exceptional or particularly demanding of either respect or a great deal of further attention here, however, although I'd be happy to taste it again.
58
Wow, did I like this beer. I probably poured it at 12-14 Celsius rather than the 8-10 degrees suggested, but I am exceedingly glad I did.
A woody nose of freshly-split logs and rosemary branches transforms into a taste of peach pits and just a hint of spicy green herbiness, dill weed perhaps. That sounds like a ghastly combination reading it back, but it works, and is quite delightful. I wouldn't necessarily drink more than one of most Dubbels, but could easily see myself enjoying a second bottle of this if I had one to hand.
A nicely balanced sour-sweet finish makes for a great end to a great beer.
92
Another Trappist classic, I admire everything about this brand, even its aesthetics. The labels are a model of elegant understatement, and the heavy chalice glassware is redolent of the brew's monastic origins whilst being simultaneously functional, allowing as it does the imbiber to savour its aromas to the full.
The nose is lean, pencil sharpenings and rich malt, with a hint of bitter chocolate. The complex esters of exotic fruit wash over the palate, and once again the sweet-sharp finish is poise personified.
This is another Trappist offering I will endeavour to keep examples of in the house to enjoy with friends in subdued light around a robust fire on bitter evenings.
92
