Tripel Reserve – Allagash Brewing Company

Though both Allagash White and Curieux are widely hailed as great beers and are eagerly tapped at many SoCal craft bars, the Tripel Reserve is a lesser known member of the Allagash Brewing Company lineup worthy of review. Available in many grocery store chains, you can find this bottle conditioned golden strong ale in 750ml bottles for around $12.

The pour is a cloudy golden color with a pillowy head composed of fine white bubbles. Subtle lace retreats quickly, but a champagne-like carbonation keeps a thin head on the beer to the bottom of the glass. The nose is a complex collection of fruit, with a strong perfume quality enhanced by the front and center presence of an alcohol aroma. Light passionfruit with a hint of honey and bread dough gives way to pineapple as the beer warms.

The mouthfeel is highly carbonated, and the taste begins with many of the same fruit flavors accented by honey and banana as it drifts into a long spicy finish that leaves a slight warm burn on the back of the throat. An initial hint of bitter rind/zest fades as the beer warms.

With an ABV of 9%, the term strong ale is not an understatement. A potent slow sipper, this is a beer ideally suited for pairing with fruit and cheese.

Cheers,
Dave