Unibroue La Résolution Belgian Strong Dark Ale at 10% ABV ($8.96 from Dominion Stavanger, 750ml, bottle date 18-Sep-2014)
Pours clear deep amber-brown with two fingers of light tan head diminishing gradually to a thin skim, spotty lacing. (4/5) Nose is winter spices, caramel/toffee malt, boozy dark fruit. (9/10) Taste is moderate sweet, mild bitter, mild spiciness. (8/10) Medium to full body, prickly to moderate sustained carbonation, boozy, almost whisky-like finish. (5/5)
What’s a New Year without a little Resolution? A very nice winter brew as it stands, but I’m glad I bought two of these, because the second will definitely go for a nice extended cellaring (next New Year’s?) to give those flavours a chance to mature and mellow. (And while we’re on the topic, what the hell is this thing? Ratebeer says it’s a spice/vegetable, beeradvocate says BSDA, and untappd calls it a winter warmer. Personally, I think it feels like a quad.) I waffled a little on my ratings, but after some thought I think this is very nearly up there with some of the big Belgian quads. The high ABV is definitely present, but not overwhelming at all, while the enthusiastic spices and carbonation balance it out nicely. Big, bombastic, and enthusiastic – is it any wonder I like it? (18/20)
8.5/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
