Huisbrouwerij De Halve Maan Straffe Hendrik Wild Tripel (2015) Tripel at 9% ABV (C$9.35 at NLC Howley Estates, 330 ml, best before 6-Mar-2020, acquired 12-Jul-2017, reviewed 16-Aug-2017)
Appearance: clear pale amber with one finger of loose ivory head diminishing gradually to a thin skim, minimal lacing. (3/5) Aroma: barnyard funk, pome, caramel, citrus zest, floral. (8/10) Taste: moderate-low sweet, moderate-high bitter, mild alcohol. (8/10) Palate: medium body, lively carbonation, off-dry bitter lightly warming and funky finish. (4/5)
Third of a three vintage (2017-2016-2015) vertical. It seems like the Brett development has continued in this, the oldest of the three vintages. It’s certainly affected head retention and lacing for the worse, but the aroma and flavour largely makes up for the relatively minor aesthetic penalty. It’s not a large change, by any means, but it’s perceptible, and makes me think three years plus is definitely the sweet spot for this brew. I think I’ll put the other three from the mixed six pack (two each of each vintage) away for another vertical in a couple of years, and maybe add a 2014 if I can find one. (16/20)
8/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
