Browse Month

October 2011

Solid rock

Trappistes Rochefort Belgian Ale 6 (Belgium) – Blocky and straightforward. A Trappist ale done strictly by the numbers and to the specification. That is to say, there’s not much joy in it, despite its precisely-described identity. (9/11)

Trappistes Rochefort Belgian Ale 8 (Belgium) – Now this is more like it. Or, rather, absolutely, precisely, exactingly “like it.” Which is to say: absolutely textbook, spice and weight and metallic glistenings. But not more than that, either. It is a Trappist ale in its essentials, done with an excess of competency, and lacking the artistry to paint outside the lines. (9/11)

Almost famous

DOG Brewing “Stillwater Artisanal” American Farmhouse Ale “Débutante” (Maryland) – Brewed with spelt and rye, flavored with honeysuckle, heather, and hyssop. And while this jumble of influences and confluences offers a lot to consider, ultimately the result is somewhat meandering…diffuse without being dilute. There’s some textural richness, some dried-citrus chew, some spice. That’s really about it. (9/11)

Helino

Victory “Helios” Ale (Pennsylvania) – In the back label text, they call this a Belgian farmhouse style. I’d call it a merging of pale American ale with hints of the claimed designation. It’s thin, it’s vaguely spicy, it’s not much more than momentarily diverting. (9/11)

Almar one

Almar Orchards “J.K.’s Scrumpy” Hard Cider Orchard Gate Gold (Michigan) – Sweet, tasting more of beer-bottle ciders than something more classic. It’s pleasant enough, I suppose. (7/11)