Rating: 4.75/5

Virtuous Endeavor Dubbel Ale Confluence brewing of Des Moines Iowa is an 8.4% ABV Belgian Dubbel.

Label:
For nearly 425 years, brewing beer has been central to the lives of Trappist monks who view it as a way to create revenue to support their community and as part of a higher calling. Confluence Brewing Company’s three beer Virtuous Endeavor Series – feature Dubbel, Tripel, and Quadrupel Ale – was inspired by the care and craftsmanship the Trappists put into the style of beer they still brew today All Virtous Endeavor beers are bottle conditioned and will continue to mature in the cellar, but can be enjoyed today if you choose.

BELGIAN-STYLE DUBBEL ALE

A grain bill of Belgian and German malt combines with dark Belgian candi sugar and rich fruity flavors to create this sweeter version of a Belgian beer. Dubbel has the lowest ABV for the series at 8.4%

==Introduction==

Obtained this one from my friend Steve in Iowa who was able to ship these to me after my visit to Ames and Iowa State University, my Alma Mater. This one caught my eye as it was a Belgian style but brewed in Iowa. So naturally with my love of the Belgian beers, I had to get this one. This one is a Belgian Dubbel and while I could not find the Quad, a Belgian style none the less is delicious I figure. So with this one, let’s take a look and see what this Belgian has to offer, cheers!

Aromas:
Citrusy Oranges, honey, dark fruit plums raisins, plums, dark cherries, figs, dates, Dulce De leche caramel, vanilla, flan, stone fruit peaches, apricots, tropical guava, raspberry, coriander spice, phenolic notes, peppercorn spices, pecan pie, waffle cone, Belgian Candi Sugar, clove spice, bubble gum, honey and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Oranges, citrus, Dulce De leche caramel, vanilla, flan, stone fruit peaches, apricots, dark fruit plums raisins, plums, figs, dark cherries, dates, tropical guava, raspberry, Belgian Candi Sugar, clove spice, bubble gum, banana notes, coriander spice, phenolic notes, peppercorn spices, pecan pie, waffle cone, honey, rye bread, brown sugar, coffee cake hints and chocolate.

Aftertaste:
Residual Belgian Candi sugar, stone fruit, dark fruit, clovey spice and bananas linger. So damn good No alcohol in the taste, Honey colored full body, smooth, creamy and effervescent mouthfeel with a moderate to supping drinkability.

Overall:
A very delicious Belgian Dubbel focusing more on its fruitier, citrusy and Belgian Candi side than the dark fruit side. Different Belgian styles would give different flavors but I think I really liked this one as it felt more unique than the average Dubbel. If you are able to find this one or purchase this, definitely give it a try. It is always good to try Iowa beers!

Anime Corner:
Dark Sakura from Fate Stay Night was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the aspect of Double or Dubbel but also the label colors. The flavors of dark fruits like cherries go with her name and as she emerges from the darkness it is synonymous to the way the flavors emerge with each temperature changing sip.

Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/nXOlpLE.jpg