Ommegang Abbey Ale

Wow! Overwhelmingly rich, which I really like; earthy, chocolatey, vinous, sweet. Hops more discernible than is usual for a Belgian, but this was no problem at all. There was some oxidization, but it was the beneficial, vintage Port or Sherry kind. I had this as my Fourth of July celebratory beer, and it stands as a testament to the skill of America’s craft brewers. I cannot do less than give it a perfect score.

I never thought I would like a belgian strong ale this much, but I LOVED this beer. It smelled like a freshly opened package of liquid malt extract, but with a slight tang. Dark ruby red color, thick fluffy caramel head, and a sweet smooth malty flavor. I've never given a 5.0 rating to a beer here before, but this one surely deserves it.

If anyone stuck a shiv to my ribs and make me squeal out my one and only favorite beer, I'd yelp the name "Ommegang!" (Actually, it would probably sound more like "Ommegod, this guy's killing me, somebody HELP!", but that's getting off track..) Why? 1. It demonstates best my personal belief that the best beer in the world is coming out of American craftbrewers, and the greatest brewing nation, for that reason, is the good ol' U.S.A. If you have a friend who is an import beer snob, loves Belgians, but gives micros the air, let them try this blindfolded and watch 'em eat crow! 2. It tastes so good! Color is dark amber to a rich, rustic brown. Hue of the head leans toward a dark orange, and is mighty and boisterous--I can hear it across the room! Aroma makes itself known from far off, too. It's utterly luxurious: toffee, chocolate, plums, grapes, dark fruit, leather, tobacco, flowers, sugar and spice and everything nice! A thick, musky, full aroma. On the lips and over the tongue, it's smooth, mellow, and extremely flavorful. Warming, deliciously hopped, tingly and enticing. Goes down so nice, and makes you feel good all the way. Everything I ask for in beer, and more!

This ale sets a high standard for Belgian style brewing. It has an intense and dark taste with hints spice.

Almost the best thing coming out of ommegang other than their three philos. The ommegang is a big ass load in my mouth. It’s a complex fish with enough room to breath in a tiny fish bowl. I guess what I mean is the sweetness does not over power it full flavor, and at the same time the taste is not washed away by maltiness. I love you Ommegang Ommegang.

Bottle...beautiful burgundy color -- one of the best I’ve seen. Full flavor with complex sweetness and a touch of bitterness. One of the best beers I’ve tasted.