Style: Belgian-style Pale Ale

ABV: 6.9

93/100

Aroma:	12
Appearance:	3
Flavor:	18
Mouthfeel:	4

Hidden Hand Oaked Val d'Or

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What the brewers say

100% Oak Fermented Belgian-Style Pale Ale aged an additional 12 months in Oak and bottle conditioned with Brettanomyces Bruxellensis.

2023 Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beer "Best of Show" Winner

What our panel thought

Light notes of funk and leather mingle with some sweet fruity esters and a dose of floral and tropical hops to create a wildly complex and inviting aroma. Pronounced _Brett _aroma with background notes of oak and toast. A vanilla-forward woodiness in the initial sip is quickly followed by a drying chardonnay-like tartness that carries through into the finish. Medium body is well balanced and finishes with just a hint of sweetness. Some light floral hoppy bitterness compliments the subtle pear and apple esters. It all comes together as an odd but interesting blend of flavors.

What our editors thought

Vinous Brett aroma with big white grape notes punched up by a light touch of acetic acid underneath. Acidity is tightly controlled in the sip, and the body feels full light a Chardonnay aged on lees, as white grape tones flutter on the edge of the tongue and Brett bitterness drives down the middle.

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