Why we're here...

Beer culture is coming of age. At any store, restaurant, bar, or friend's house you can now find at least a few good brews. In fact, there seem to be so many new beers, breweries and bars it's difficult to separate the good, the bad, and the mediocre.

If you're going spend $10 on one beer, what should you buy? If you're going to drive 2 hours to check out a brewery, what's worth your time? If you're going to plan a Friday night, what has a good selection and friendly atmosphere? We're here to help you answer these questions.

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

La Trappe Quadrupel

La Trappe Quadrupel is considered a Belgium Specialty Ale from the La Trappe Brewery in Berkel-Enschot, Netherlands. Berkel-Enschot is about 45 miles south of Amsterdam. Quadrupel's are known for their strong, complex flavor and high alcohol content.


I bought this at Curtis Park Market for $11.97 for a 1 pint 9.4 fl.oz bottle. The beer 10% ABV.

The Quadrupel pours a thick head which gives way to a nice thin, sustainable head. The color is dark amber/brown. The initial aroma is sweet with dominate fruits and a dominant banana. The taste is very complex and sweet yet smooth. There's a good warming from the alcohol but not overpowering. Has a nice clean finish that does not linger. After opening and pouring let the beer sit for a few minutes. The slight increase in temperature adds to the flavor.

This is definitely a beer for a pro. There is so much going on in this beer its hard to distinguish it all. If you're used to one note beers you might not appreciate this beer and might even be turned off. I would probably start with some of the less powerful dupels or triples before hitting this one. If you have had Chimay before you maybe ready for this. It's not your grandpa's beer, unless your grandpa is from Belgium.

I enjoy it, but its still just a little too sweet for my tastes. This is like the Port Wine of beers. The bottle is also sizeable and pretty much impossible to re-cork, so be prepared to drink it all, waste it, or share it.

Try It.

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