Brouwerij Van Honsebrouck Kasteel Cuvee du Chateau (2015) Abt / Quadrupel at 11% ABV (C$9.57 at Willow Park Wine & Spirits, 750 ml, best before 20-May-2020, acquired 5-Nov-2015, reviewed 4-Jun-2016)
Appearance: clear deep ruby with one finger of fizzy light beige head diminishing gradually to a thin skim, patchy lacing. (4/5) Aroma: dark dried fruit, caramel/toffee, bready yeast, leather, spices. (8/10) Taste: moderate-high sweet, moderate bitter, light tart. (7/10) Medium-light body, lively carbonation, lingering boozy finish. (4/5)
I wasn’t completely convinced by this one at first. I think my ultimate objection is that the body really seems too thin and light for the flavours and the very high ABV, and that’s not really helped a lot by the lively carbonation that remains throughout. Don’t get me wrong: it’s quite pleasant as it is, and the high ABV, though present, is never overwhelming or intrusive, but I can’t help feeling like it would have been more appropriate had the body been a bit heavier, and the carbonation a bit softer. On the other hand, it’s very Belgian in flavour, and drinking it transports me back to the little side streets of Brugge, or off Grand-Place in Brussels. The flavours open as it warms, making it enjoyable to sip and linger over. (16/20)
8/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
