 Beerlando (1123), Orlando, Florida, USA
May 11, 2008
Pours a cloudy, golden-tangerine color. A small, foamy, off-white head leaves minimal spotty lacing behind. The nose is simultaneously sweet and spice. Notes of caramel and bready yeast are set off by candied orange peel, pears, grain of paradise, and a hint of coriander. New oak imparts its signature woody vanilla scent as well. Flavors follow suit, with a uniquely Belgian yeast note that is reminiscent of something Fantôme might brew. The grain of paradise is quite distinct, lendin its signature tropical fruitiness to the light caramel and vanilla notes. This is beautifully spiced, with each element working hand in hand. The candied orange peel just pops, and the coriander isn’t overbearing like it is far too often. Medium-plus bodied, finishing smooth and fruity, but slightly warm from the alcohol. Easy drinking, even on a 90 degree day. This is an excellent brew that has aged quite gracefully. Bravo to Allagash.
BlackDonald (610), On a beer trip all over the USA, California, USA
Jun 24, 2008 Mmmm, delicious, Sweet candied fruit esthers in the nose, spicy coriander, and a bit of a vanilla barrel aged toastiness. Light on the palate, with some sweet bready maltiness, with hints of toffee and caramel. Finishes extremely dry, with a small hint of alcohol. Well done!
Taktik_MTL (1769), Montréal-Nord, Quebec, Canada
Apr 10, 2008 Bouteille de 750 ml, avec bouchon de liège, partagée lors d’une dégustation Ratebeer Montréal chez Glouglouburp. Arôme: Odeur d’agrumes et d’épices. Apparence: La couleur est blonde voilée. Présence d’une fine dentelle sur le verre. Saveur: Goût d’agrumes et de coriandre avec une pointe de poire. Durée moyenne de l’arrière goût. Palette: Le corps est moyen avec une texture légèrement minérale. Faible effervescence en bouche. Présence d’épices en arrière goût. (Rating #1601)
Glouglouburp (1829), Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Apr 10, 2008 In short: A very good Belgian Ale foundation marred by an excessive amount of spices (mainly coriander)
How: Back from Europe tasting session with Montreal crew
The look: Partly cloudy yellow-golden body with a small white head
In long: Nose is candy/spicy. Taste is rather spicy with too much coriander for my liking. Some other spices too but coriander is the one really coming out. Covered by the spices are oily/buttery orange flavoured cookies. Warming alcohol finish in the back of the throat. The otherwise pleasant citrusy hops are unfortunately killed by the spiciness. I think there’s a very good beer in there but unfortunately with its omnipresent spiciness this was like a Shakespeare Play interpreted by hot naked chicks, I was hard to focuss on its worthy qualities.
Braudog (3461), Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Feb 16, 2008 Caged and corked. I found this gem this month at Bon Vivant. There’s not indication to a bottling date so I’m not sure of its lineage. It opens easily with little vigor and pours in a whimper, golden orange. The aroma is tart and fruity, not unlike some mandarin oranges, yet there’s an underlying promise of syrupy goodness. This essence carries on in the flavor, fairly sweet on top with a definite, dainty fruitiness. There’s just enough spice and a big dry finish to keep it from being too much in the sweet vein. This would do lovely with a big garlicy plate of pasta, or just as an apertif. (#3324, 2/16/2008)
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