Grimbergen Tripel

Grimbergen Tripel is, well a Tripel, brewed by the Alken Maes Brewery in Alken, Belgium. Tripels are the Belgium version of Old Ales. Historically, Tripel refers to the strongest beer, although now Quadrupels have a higher ABV. However, Quadrupels have not been given formal guidelines by the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP), so they are put into the Barleywine category.

I bought this at Pangaea Two Brews Cafe from the tap, I believe it was $7.50. The beer has a 9% ABV.

The beer is a dark reddish brown, with a thick, white head. The aroma is subtle, with sweet notes of banana, apricots, plums, honey, and Belgium yeast. The taste is follows the aroma - sweet with subtle notes of fruit, honey and the Belgium yeast. It's crisp, with medium carbonation. The beer finishes on a slight bitter note, but its smooth and doesn't stick around. There is also a warm alcohol feeling at the end. Give the beer time to warm a bit and the flavors will be more prounced and enjoyable.

At Pangaea this is my go-to beer when I can't decide what else I want or I'm not in the mood for big flavors. Its a good session beer, clean, well-made, with subtle complexity.

It's a well-made, but darker example of a Triple, so it's best to Try It. If you or your friends are not too into Belgium styles Grimbergen could be a way to gently ease into the unique and complex flavors.