Our Score: 88/100

Review: Brouwerij Affligem Affligem Dubbel

The Brouwerij Affligem Affligem Dubbel is certainly not a brew to be ignored. With an average rating of 88/100, it shows its true promise. The brewers describe it as being ruby-brown in color, with a firm, silky head and a powerful explosion of natural carbonation. The array of aromas include notes of clove, anise, raisin, molasses, and banana, while the nuanced flavors deliver a spicy clove taste that softens into a more gentle, caramel fruity vibe. With a silky, spicy mouthfeel and balanced alcohol content, this beer also maintains a hoppy dryness in its finish.

Aroma – 11/20

The aroma of the Affligem Dubbel is rich and complex, packed with toasty malt sweetness that intertwines seamlessly with sweet cherry and raisin fruit notes, liberally accessorized with accents of red apple and pear. However, there are light sherry notes that come with an earthy, mineral profile, which may feel somewhat muted akin to a slight oxidization, thereby pinching the aroma score to an 11.

Appearance – 2/5

The appearance is true to the brewers’ description, maintaining that ruby-brown hue. While the beer pours with a firm, silky head, the aspect that somewhat detracts from the visual appeal is the overbearing carbonation.

Flavor – 18/25

The flavor is where this beer truly shines. A potent sweetness sweeps across the palette, full of a flavorful fruit character reminiscent of cherry, apple, plum, and raisin. Underneath, the sweet toffee, toast and bread malt notes create a deep undercurrent, giving the brew a definite skew toward maltiness. Although, high carbonation somewhat hampers the enjoyment of these full-bodied flavors, scoring the flavor 18.

Mouthfeel – 4/5

Silky and spicy, the beer’s mouthfeel beautifully complements its rich flavor profile, with a low alcohol warmth that nestles easily on the tongue. The finish, despite the earlier sweetness in the sip, manages to retain a relative dryness.

Overall Impression

Enthralling sweet fruit and malt complexity mark the signature notes of this brew, making it a rather commendable dubbel. Although the somewhat muted character doesn’t quite hit the mark, it only elevates the anticipation for fresher, younger samples of the Affligem Dubbel that could truly exhibit the brew’s potential. All in all, Brouwerij Affligem’s Dubbel proves that it can hold its own in the world of beers, making it a worthwhile tasting experience for any beer enthusiast.

Brouwerij Affligem Dubbel Beer Review

Style: Dubbel

ABV: 3.8

Reader Rating4686 Votes

97

97