f you’re a fan of Belgian-style ales, Goose Island (Chicago, Illinois) Matilda is definitely one to try. Inspired by the classic Trappist ales of Belgium, this beer brings a bit of old-world charm to your glass while still holding its own in the American craft scene. Here’s my take on it:
First Impressions
Matilda pours a gorgeous amber-gold color with a nice hazy glow, topped off by a creamy, off-white head that sticks around for a bit. Right from the start, it looks like a beer you want to dive into. The aroma is a mix of fruity and spicy notes, with a bit of clove, dried apricot, and a whiff of banana from the Belgian yeast. There’s also a light, earthy undertone that gives it a bit more depth.
Tasting Notes
As soon as you take a sip, you’re greeted with those fruity esters and spicy phenols that Belgian yeast fans will love. There’s a bit of honey sweetness upfront, balanced out by the herbal, peppery bitterness in the finish. The malt backbone is solid but not overwhelming, allowing the yeast characteristics to really shine. I also picked up subtle hints of green apple and pear, which give it a refreshing, crisp bite.
The mouthfeel is medium-bodied, with a pleasant carbonation that lifts the beer off your tongue, making it super drinkable despite its relatively higher ABV (7%). At 7%, it’s deceptively smooth and easygoing—you might forget how strong it is if you’re not paying attention.
The Positives
- Flavor Complexity: Matilda delivers a beautifully layered flavor profile. You get a lot of that classic Belgian yeast character without it being too overpowering.
- Drinkability: For a beer with some heft, it’s surprisingly easy to drink. The carbonation keeps it light on the palate, making it great for both sipping or pairing with food.
- Aroma: The inviting bouquet of fruity and spicy notes makes each sip something to look forward to.
The Negatives
- Bitterness: While I appreciate the bitter, peppery finish, it might be a bit too much for those who prefer sweeter Belgian-style ales. It does linger on the tongue, which not everyone will love.
- Availability: Goose Island has a pretty broad distribution, but Matilda can still be hard to find in certain places. It’s a beer you might have to hunt down, depending on where you live.
Final Thoughts and Ratings
Goose Island Matilda is a fantastic example of how American breweries can respectfully honor Belgian brewing traditions while putting their own spin on it. It’s complex, balanced, and overall very enjoyable, though the bitterness might be a tad sharp for some. If you’re into Belgian-style beers or are looking to expand your palate, Matilda is worth a try!
- Appearance: 4.5/5
- Aroma: 4.7/5
- Flavor: 4.2/5
- Mouthfeel: 4.3/5
- Overall: 4.4/5
Matilda would be a perfect beer for a chill evening with friends, or paired with roasted meats or aged cheeses. Just be prepared for that lingering bitterness…it’s part of the package!
If you’ve tried a Matilda, please let us know your thoughts about it in the comments below.
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