Unibroue Grande Réserve 17 (2014) – Belgian Strong Ale at 10% ABV (C$12.59 at Quarry Park Co-Op, 750 ml, packaged on 12-Feb-2014, best before 12-Feb-2019, acquired 24-Feb-2015, reviewed 31-Jan-2022)
Appearance: clear deep amber with two fat fingers of frothy light beige head, excellent retention and moderate soapy lacing. (4/5) Aroma: Belgian banana and cloves, caramel & toffee, oak & leather, dark fruits, tobacco. (8/10) Taste: moderate sweet, mild bitter. (8/10) Palate: medium body, moderate-lively carbonation, lingering spicy warming finish. (4/5)
I did this one fairly soon after doing my other old vintage, a 2013, because the 2013 had definitely taken on negative characteristics as it neared a decade of cellaring. I figured I might as well catch this one before it did the same. But, it doesn’t seem to have any negatives at all: I’m not detecting any of the fading or mustiness I got with the 2013. I guess shouldn’t be surprised, because this one also wasn’t a gusher – maybe a cork failure in the 2013? A very pleasant slow sipper to wind down after a 14-hour workday. (16/20)
This will be my 5,186th unique Untappd check-in.
8/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
