Many American brewers are influenced by Belgian brewing traditions, and they’re eager to rave about their favorite monastic, or monastic-inspired, ales.
Orval and Chimay Blue
With the somewhat ambiguous terminology surrounding abbey-style ales today, I am inclined to revert to one of the seven remaining Trappist brewers. The only problem I am having now is whether to select Orval (Belgium) and its yeast strains for its wonderfully refreshing flavor or Chimay Blue (Belgium) for its unmistakably rich character. Let’s call it a tie.—Michael Hoops, Head Brewer at Town Hall Brewery, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Bosteels Brewery Tripel Karmeliet and Allagash Tripel
I love Tripel Karmeliet from the Bosteels Brewery (Belgium) for many reasons. One, is that I can always pour it for someone “who doesn’t like beer” and get a strong, positive response. It is complex and lush in a charming, simple way. The flavors I perceive in it, mainly orange-blossom honey and pear, are unique and right in line with what I want from a luscious tripel. Also, of the many wonderful beers that Rob Tod and crew deliver at Allagash (Portland, Maine), their Tripel remains one of my favorites. The beer is huge in fruit aromas and flavors, offering lots of tropical fruit sweetness up front and all the way across your tongue, but it ends dry on the palate. What a fantastic ride!—Bill Covaleski, Brewmaster and President at Victory Brewing Company, Downington, Pennsylvania