ABV: 8.5% | Style: Belgian-Style Tripel
Hey there, fellow beer enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into New Belgium’s Trippel, a Belgian-style ale that’s been on the scene for quite a while. With its roots in traditional Belgian brewing but a bit of a modern American twist, this beer’s got a lot to offer, but it’s not without a few quirks. Let’s crack one open and get to the good stuff.
First Impressions
Right off the bat, pouring this golden beauty into the glass, you’re greeted by a clear, slightly hazy, deep gold color with a thick, white foamy head that sticks around for a bit. There’s a subtle sparkle to it, which makes it pretty inviting. Visually, it’s doing everything right. The aroma is where you start to get a sense of what’s coming: a nice mix of sweet fruits, like banana and pear, alongside some spicy, peppery notes typical of a Belgian yeast strain.
Rating (Appearance/Aroma): 4.5/5
Tasting Notes
The first sip hits you with that unmistakable Belgian yeast character…fruity, spicy, and a bit bready. You’ll immediately notice flavors of ripe banana, clove, and a hint of bubblegum (classic for this style), followed by a touch of pear and apple. It’s sweet but not overly sugary, which keeps it drinkable despite the higher ABV. The spices come through nicely…think coriander and a touch of pepper. The malt provides a slightly sweet, biscuity backbone without being too heavy.
There’s a nice dry finish that balances out the initial sweetness, but this is where some drinkers might get split. The alcohol, at 8.5%, makes itself known as it warms up. While it’s not overpowering, it adds a bit of heat to the back end, which might be a bit much for some people who prefer their Belgian ales smoother.
Rating (Taste): 4.25/5
Mouthfeel & Body
New Belgium Trippel has a medium body with a smooth, slightly creamy mouthfeel, thanks to the carbonation. It’s lively without being aggressive, which adds to the refreshing feel. It’s easy to drink considering the ABV, but you do start to feel that warming sensation after a couple of sips. This one could easily sneak up on you if you’re not careful!
That said, I wouldn’t call it a super sessionable beer. You’re probably good for one or two before the richness and alcohol start to slow you down.
Rating (Mouthfeel): 4/5
Final Thoughts
Overall, New Belgium Trippel is a solid, well executed take on the Belgian tripel style with a slight American twist. It’s got plenty of flavor to keep you coming back, from the fruity esters to the spicy yeast character, and it’s balanced nicely by a clean finish. However, the alcohol presence does become noticeable as it warms, which might turn off those who prefer a bit more subtlety in their high ABV beers.
If you’re into Belgian ales or just looking for something with a bit more oomph and complexity, this is a fantastic choice. Just don’t expect it to go down like your typical easy-drinking brew…this one packs a bit of a punch.
Overall Rating: 4.3/5
Pros:
- Great balance of fruity and spicy notes
- Well-carbonated with a refreshing finish
- Solid representation of a Belgian-style tripel
Cons:
- The alcohol heat is noticeable, especially as it warms
- Not as smooth as some other tripels out there
So, grab a bottle of New Belgium Trippel, kick back, and enjoy the ride. Just maybe don’t plan on tackling too many of these in one sitting—unless you want the night to get really interesting.
If you’ve tried New Belgium’s Trippel, let us know what you thought about it in the comments below.
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