Our Score: 87/100
Westmalle Tripel – A Unique Take on Classic Tripels
For beer connoisseurs on the adventuresome end of the palate spectrum, the Brouwerij Westmalle Tripel offers a fascinating, slightly off-kilter exploration of the timeless tripel style. Its uniqueness may not resonate with every aficionado of traditional tripels, but that pioneering taste journey is precisely where the charm of this visionary brew lies.
Tantalizing Aroma
The Westmalle Tripel invites you into taste exploration with its powerful and tempting aroma profile that scored an impressive 11 out of 12. While the nostrils are greeted by the classic honey and fruity notes, there’s also a surprising hint of lemon, cantaloupe, and some enchanting exotic fruits like lychees and gooseberries. The underling scent of light toasty-caramel malt laced with a hint of honey adds a warm and comforting touch. In the backdrop, you may detect a faint hint of spicy phenol, adding an intoxicating edge of complexity to the overall olfactory delight.
Unconventional Flavor
Scoring a commendable 17 out of 20, the Westmalle Tripel’s flavor journey breaks the mold with its innovative blend of taste profiles. A unique palette of Concord grapes is quickly followed by a rush of tropical pineapple and banana notes, joined onboard by an unexpected touch of black pepper. The ensemble is reminiscent of Nelson Sauvin hops, creating an intriguing and inviting flavor landscape. A medium-high carbonation keeps the flavors lively, all wrapped up in a pleasantly dry finish. Underlining this flavor dance is a toasted caramel malt note, punctuated with a mild hops flavor and floral undertones.
Engaging Mouthfeel
Mirroring the unique flavor journey, the Westmalle Tripel’s mouthfeel surprises with its complex texture, scoring 4 out of 5 on the scale. Its creamy, soft, and ever-so-subtle bitterness balanced with the fruity aroma creates an alluring depth of complexity for the taste buds. The brew finishes with an appealing long aftertaste, allowing you to bask in its innovative flavor composition.
In a Nutshell
The Westmalle Tripel is an adventure in beer tasting, providing a less sweet but far from less complex exploration of the tripel ale. Its dry, well-attenuated, and spritzy bearing, paired with an unconventional flavor fusion, makes for an intriguing sip, likely to be embraced by the more epicurean beer enthusiasts. Its 87 out of 100 rating is a testament to the creative brilliance behind this remarkable brew.
Ets it apart from other tripels. Notes of fruit, spice, and yeast blend together to create a complex and enticing scent that lures you in for a sip. The aroma alone is enough to captivate your senses and prepare you for the unique experience ahead.
Bold and Balanced Flavor
Once you take that first sip, the Westmalle Tripel reveals its true character. The flavor is bold and full-bodied, with a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness. The initial sweetness of the malt is quickly followed by the spiciness of the yeast, creating a harmonious dance of flavors on your taste buds. As you continue to drink, the complexity of the brew unfolds, revealing subtle hints of citrus and floral notes. It’s a journey that keeps you engaged and wanting more.
Smooth and Satisfying Finish
Despite its complexity, the Westmalle Tripel maintains a smooth and satisfying finish. The alcohol content is well-hidden, allowing the flavors to shine without overwhelming your palate. The slightly higher carbonation adds a refreshing crispness to each sip, making it a delight to drink from start to finish. It’s a beer that leaves you satisfied and craving another glass.
In conclusion, the Brouwerij Westmalle Tripel is a unique take on classic tripels that delivers a captivating aroma, bold and balanced flavor, and a smooth and satisfying finish. While it may not appeal to everyone, it’s a must-try for those looking to explore new flavors and expand their beer horizons. Cheers to innovation!
Eems to dance between fruity sweetness and spicy yeast. The scent of ripe bananas, juicy apples, and a hint of citrus create an inviting atmosphere that promises a delightful drinking experience.
Complex Flavors
Upon the first sip, the complexity of flavors takes center stage. The initial burst of fruity sweetness is quickly followed by a robust yeast character that infuses notes of cloves, pepper, and a touch of earthiness. These layers of flavors play off each other harmoniously, creating a dynamic taste journey that keeps you engaged with each sip.
Smooth and Satisfying
Despite its daring flavor profile, the Westmalle Tripel maintains a smooth and satisfying mouthfeel. The medium body and moderate carbonation contribute to a velvety texture that adds to the overall drinkability of the beer. It’s a brew that you can savor slowly, enjoying every sip, or easily quaff down on a warm summer day.
Conclusion
While the Westmalle Tripel may not be the traditional tripel that some beer enthusiasts are accustomed to, its unique take on the style is a refreshing and adventurous choice. It’s a beer that pushes boundaries and invites you to explore new flavors and experiences. If you’re a fan of tripels and looking to expand your horizons, this is definitely a brew to try.