We have an unwritten rule that we don’t repeat beers in the beer packs but given the number of new members signing up I think it is fair to occasionally revisit some of the classics.
This beer is one of the most easily recognisable bottles in Belgium and was probably among the first Belgian beers most people got to try. I remember seeing this beer in a select couple of Newcastle bottle shops in the late 90’s.
It is somewhat unique in that it is classed as a tripel but is much darker in colour than your standard Belgian tripel. Interesting the latest labelling refers to the beer as a ‘dark red tripel’, and that is pretty spot on really.
There is a heavy malt aroma of caramel and sweet bread, brown sugar, dark fruits and of course the Belgian yeast. These all come through in the flavour as well, with banana, prunes and raisins and a little woodiness. The body is full and sticky, coating your mouth with a lovely semi-sweet, tingly aftertaste and a pleasant alcohol warmth that lingers as the beer disappears.
If this is your first time trying this beer, you’re welcome. And if not I’m sure you’re happy to have this in your beer fridge again.
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The Brewmaster is Gulden Draak's classic dark tripel aged in various whiskey barrels
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