Since everyone seems to be in the mood to drink trappist brews lately, I figured it was time to deploy the beer brigade on a mission that I have been kicking around for awhile. Originally, I had planned to embark on this mission alone, but then I came to my senses and realized the extreme personal danger of being overwhelmed by those crafty trappists and their high gravity beers. Yes, troops... we are in this together, and you will want backup on this mission.
The Mission
This mission is basically an opportunity to further develop a palate while sampling some of the finest trappist beverages that are widely available. Brasserie de Rochefort makes the Trappistes Rochefort 6 (Belgian Strong Dark Ale), the Trappistes Rochefort 8 (another Belgian Strong Dark Ale), and the Trappistes Rochefort 10 (Quadrupel). The mission is simply to try these three beers and pick out the differences between them. The sweet malt backbone, apparent use of spices instead of hops, the dark fruit esters, and the differing alcohol content of each of these beers are all important characteristics that may help to distinguish differences and further develop your palate.
Mission Parameters
1) I do not think it is necessary to review each of these beers for this mission, but you can if you wish. A summary post of your adventures with the Rocheforts should give everyone a good idea of what these beers are all about.
2) Try to address the following questions during this beer mission: Did you like these beers? What did they taste like? What are the differences between them?
Optional parameter - If you wish, you can also try the St. Bernardus Abt 12 (Quadrupel) by the Brouwerij St. Bernardus NV and compare it to the Rochefort 10. How are these two beers different and which one (if you have a preference) did you prefer?
This beer mission is meant to be enjoyable without having to think too much. In my opinion, these are all great beers that will enhance your life with their unique characters. Have fun with this mission and enjoy the beer!
I accept your mission and will try the following three:
ReplyDelete1) Westemalle Dubbel
2) Westemalle Trippel
3) Allagash Four Ale (10%, yeowser!)
I couldn't find Rochefort, but will ask the place I usually go if they can order it. The beers above are already purchased and sitting in the fridge waiting for this weekend for the mission.
over and out,
-charles
Mike: great idea for a mission and one that I'll definitely enjoy :)
ReplyDeleteCharles: Yeah, unfortunately it's my understanding is that Rochefort is not available in Texas. I read that they stopped shipping there around 2001. We could ship you some, but your idea is much cheaper!
I did not realize that Rochefort stopped shipping to Texas. Another option would be a comparison between the Maudite and Trois Pistoles by Unibroue, as they are similar to the Rochefort 6 and 8. The closest thing to Rochefort 10 would be the St. Bernardus Abt 12, but I suppose any trappist ales would work.
ReplyDeleteMike: If you're wanting to keep it all Trappist, Charles could consider picking up a Trappist quad. Unfortunately Westmalle doesn't make a quad, but LaTrappe (Koningshoeven) does. It's actually a very nice one.
ReplyDeleteI am not really concerned. Heck, just as long as we are all drinking beer (or some kind of alcoholic beverage) I don't really care. Just don't try to review any root beer, because none of us are experts like that guy on Cosmo's Root Beer Blog. ;)
ReplyDeleteThat's cool. And with Charles's original idea, he is comparing a Dubbel, a Tripel and a Quad which keeps with the spirit.
ReplyDeleteI think we should start a new blog named "Cosmo's Affable Root Beer Blog" and go after the lighter side of root beer :)