Our Score: 88/100
Overall Score: 88/100
We had the chance recently to sip on Weyerbacher Brewing Co.’s offering, Merry Monks. This beer hit our glasses with an overall score of 88 out of 100. A solid performance from this renowned brewery! Pilsner malt combined with an abbey yeast strain creates a complex flavor profile packed with notes of spice, banana and pear. It’s nicely balanced by a moderate to dry finish and a robust 9.3 percent ABV.
Appearance: 3
First impressions can be important, and the presentation of Merry Monks is simple yet appealing. The beer pours a clear, golden hue into the glass, hinting at the crisp, refreshing experience that awaits within.
Aroma: 11
Merry Monks captivates the senses upon the first whiff, with its subtle yet enticing aroma. The beer’s nose is very mild, offering some lemony citrus along with a vague malt sweetness. It’s undeniably bright and citrusy, complemented with fragrances of wheat biscuits, noble hops and a light sprinkle of spice.
Flavor: 17
Moving on to where it matters most, the flavor of Merry Monks does not disappoint. Banana and bubblegum notes dominate upfront, but there are also flavors reminiscent of citrus fruits and tree-fruits. The touch of clove balances the esters, offering a contrasting spicy element. Underlying all these flavors is a sweet honey maltiness which is perfectly cut by the beer’s crisp carbonation and fruity alcohol. Although the balance leans towards the sweet side, it borders on cloying, adding an interesting dimension to the beer’s taste profile.
Mouthfeel: 4
Wrapped elegantly around the bouquet of flavors is the mouthfeel, which is rich and satisfying. Merry Monks offers a robust body that is matched by equally assertive carbonation. The beer’s alcohol presence is firm but not harsh, contributing to the beer’s overall pleasant mouthfeel.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Merry Monks is a very fruity beer that leans more on the sweeter side of the style spectrum. The high carbonation and pronounced, but not overpowering, alcoholic note add to its mouthfeel, pulling it all together to deliver a balanced, flavorful drink. It’s a refreshing, crisp yet sweet beer with a nice spice character. A great example of well-executed complexity and balance in a beer. Weyerbacher Brewing Co. has done it again!
How We Review
Our reviews are conducted by a panel of experts who carefully assess each beer based on appearance, aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel. Each component is scored separately and the total score is calculated by summing the individual scores. We aim to deliver an honest, comprehensive review that can guide beer connoisseurs and novices in their beer adventure.
Enticing aroma. The scent of spices, particularly cloves and coriander, immediately tantalizes the nose. There are also hints of banana and pear, adding a fruity and fragrant touch to the beer’s overall aroma.
Taste: 17
When it comes to taste, Merry Monks delivers a complex and satisfying experience. The pilsner malt creates a solid base for the flavors to build upon. The abbey yeast strain shines through, bringing forward notes of spice, banana, and pear that mirror the beer’s aroma. The combination of these flavors creates a well-rounded taste that is both enjoyable and memorable.
Finish: 9
The finish of Merry Monks is moderate to dry, leaving a crisp and refreshing sensation on the palate. The flavors linger for a while, allowing the drinker to fully appreciate the complexity and balance of this beer. The robust 9.3 percent ABV adds a pleasant warmth to the finish, making it a beer to savor and enjoy.
Overall, Weyerbacher Brewing Co.’s Merry Monks has earned its score of 88 out of 100. With its enticing aroma, complex flavor profile, and satisfying finish, it is a beer that stands out amongst its competitors. Whether you’re a fan of Belgian-style ales or simply enjoy a well-crafted beer, Merry Monks is definitely worth a try.
Intoxicating aroma. The blend of spices, fruit, and yeast creates a delightful bouquet that is both inviting and intriguing.
Taste: 19
With each sip, Merry Monks showcases its sophisticated flavor profile. The combination of pilsner malt and abbey yeast results in a unique taste that is both spicy and fruity. The notes of banana and pear add a touch of sweetness, while the moderate to dry finish ensures a satisfying drinking experience.
Texture: 18
Merry Monks has a smooth and velvety texture that coats the palate and enhances the overall drinking experience. The beer’s medium body and moderate carbonation contribute to its pleasant mouthfeel.
Finish: 16
The finish of Merry Monks leaves a lasting impression. The robust 9.3 percent ABV adds a warming sensation, while the balanced flavors linger on the palate, inviting you to take another sip.
Overall Experience: 21
Overall, Merry Monks from Weyerbacher Brewing Co. impressed us with its complex flavor profile, inviting aroma, and smooth texture. With an overall score of 88 out of 100, this beer is a solid choice for those seeking a flavorful and well-crafted brew.
Bold aroma of spice, yeast, and fruit. The abbey yeast strain used in this beer gives it a distinctive Belgian character, with notes of clove, banana, and pear shining through.
Taste: 19
The taste of Merry Monks is where it truly shines. The combination of Pilsner malt and abbey yeast creates a complex flavor profile that is both spicy and fruity. The initial sip is filled with flavors of clove and banana, followed by a subtle sweetness from the malt. The finish is moderate to dry, with a pleasant lingering spiciness.
Texture: 8
In terms of texture, Merry Monks has a medium body with moderate carbonation. It feels smooth and slightly creamy on the palate, adding to the overall enjoyment of the beer.
Finish: 15
The finish of Merry Monks is clean and dry, leaving a pleasant spiciness on the palate. Despite its high alcohol content, the beer is well-balanced and doesn’t feel overly boozy. It’s a satisfying end to each sip.
Overall Impression: 32/40
In conclusion, Merry Monks from Weyerbacher Brewing Co. is an impressive beer that deserves its score of 88 out of 100. The complex flavor profile, balanced finish, and overall enjoyable experience make it a standout offering from this renowned brewery. Whether you’re a fan of Belgian-style beers or simply looking for something new to try, Merry Monks is definitely worth seeking out.
Would We Buy It Again?
Absolutely. Merry Monks is a beer that we would happily purchase again. It’s a versatile brew that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes. The combination of spice, fruit, and moderate alcohol content make it a great choice for both casual sipping and special occasions.
Prominent aroma of spices, bananas, and pears. The scent is inviting and promises a flavorful drinking experience.
Taste: 27
The taste of Merry Monks lives up to its enticing aroma. The combination of pilsner malt and abbey yeast creates a complex flavor profile that is both rich and refreshing. The prominent notes of spice, banana, and pear are well-balanced and complemented by a moderate to dry finish. The 9.3 percent ABV adds a nice kick to the overall experience.
Texture: 20
Merry Monks has a smooth and medium-bodied texture that adds to its drinkability. The carbonation is just right, providing a nice effervescence without overwhelming the palate.
Drinkability: 27
With its complex yet balanced flavor profile and moderate to dry finish, Merry Monks is an incredibly drinkable beer. Despite its higher ABV, it goes down smoothly and leaves you wanting more.
Final Thoughts:
Weyerbacher Brewing Co.’s Merry Monks is an impressive offering that deserves its solid score of 88 out of 100. It showcases the brewery’s expertise in creating complex yet approachable beers. Whether you’re a fan of Belgian-style ales or looking to explore new flavors, Merry Monks is definitely worth a try.
Overall, a great beer with an impressive score. Cheers to Weyerbacher Brewing Co. for their excellent craftsmanship!