Tag Archives: Quadrupel

2014 Pannepot Old Fisherman’s Ale by De Struise Brouwers

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11017453_10102665593740740_6235135518227379995_oRating: 5.25/5

2014 Pannepot Old Fisherman’s Ale by De Struise Brouwers is a 10% ABV World Class Belgian Quadrupel.

Label:
In the early 1900s, the village of De Panne, close to the French border, was famous for two things — the ‘Pannepots,’ or fishing boats, that could be seen along the coast, and the unique dark ale enjoyed by the local fishermen. Our Old Fisherman’s Ale is a tribute to these hardy sailors and their rich, flavorful brew. Unfiltered. Unpasteurized. Bottle-conditioned in 33cl and 75cl.

==Introduction==

An elusive beer that was hard for me to find long ago and continues to be pretty elusive. A quad of quads and used to be one of the highest rated quads next to the awesome St. Bernardus abt 12 and Westvleteren 12 and Rochefort 10 along with others. This beer, simply called the Old Fisherman’s Ale was said to be number 1 back in the day. I am not sure how true to that it was but luckily with popularity and availability, I was able to bring one here for a review. Let’s check it out and cheers!!

Aromas:
Bananas, Belgian candi sugar, vanilla, rock candy, Dulce leche caramel, chocolate notes, buttery pecan ice cream clove spice, Rich dark fruits like raisins, plums, figs, dates, dark cherries, black currants, concord grapes, dragon fruit, raspberry, black berries, anise, molasses, flan, sweetened condensed milk, oak hints, stone fruit peaches, apricots and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Dulce leche caramel, rich dark fruits like raisins, plums, figs, dates, dark cherries, black currants, concord grapes, dragon fruit, raspberry, black berries, anise, molasses, clove spices, bananas, flan, sweetened condensed milk, oak hints, stone fruit peaches, apricots, port wine, pecan pie, red apples, hazelnut nectar, rich Belgian candi sugar, vanilla, rock candy, chocolate notes, buttery pecan ice cream, rye bread, cinnamon hints, brown sugar, butterscotch leathery notes and piloncillo.

Aftertaste:
The dark fruits and caramel surely linger for a while and it is hard to find any earthy notes as the rich berries and rich banana clove and sugars linger for a long time. No alcohol in the taste, rich smooth and creamy mouthfeel, easy to drink despite the ABV and Deep Dark Brown Full body.

Overall:
A well elusive yet a bit above perfect Belgian Quadrupel! This was well worth the wait and it definitely carries itself well in complexity brimming with lots of the awesome quadrupel flavors I love. While this may not be a St. Bernardus abt 12, its direction goes into other places of the flavor spectrum instead of heavily in the Dulce De Leche which I really like but do enjoy other complex flavors from time to time. Possibly not as elusive as before but definitely highly recommended quad!

Anime Corner:
Kid from Chrono Cross was used in this pairing as I wanted to represent the rarity of this world class with like that of finding treasure buried under the sea which is what she represents, that same treasures. Her pirate like yet sea voyaging attire reflects and complements that of what this beer is, the Old Fisherman’s Ale in search of the treasure of Legends!…

Sources:
http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Kx8FOi2yh7Q/maxresdefault.jpg

Gregorius Trappistenbier by Stift Engelszell

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10641162_10102205531504150_5416806168295757054_nRating: 5/5

Gregorius Trappistenbier by Stift Engelszell is a 9.7% ABV Belgian Trappist Quadrupel

Description:
The first bottles of beer which, since 1 June 2012 The first Variety called Gregorius and is a dark triple with 9.7 vol% Alc. available in 0.33 liter bottles.

With honey

==Introduction==

So many Trappist Monasteries have been brewing up across the world and many have become legendary holding that Trappist Beer emblem of beer Holy legends. Ambrosia of gods literally. Who best to brew the ambrosia of god than that of the Monks in Belgium and other monasteries across the world. This monastery was added back in 2012 as part of the Trappist elite. Today, 10 monasteries hold that emblem with pride. This is the first time I have been able to try the Stift Engelszell Gergorius and bring it forth to the site. I have had it before at Congregation Ale house in Long Beach California but when I found it in Total Wine of Redondo Beach California, I had to bring it to the table. So here we have it, another legend of the many who have bared the name Trappist! Cheers!

Aromas:
Rich dark fruit raisins, plums figs, cherries, prunes, currants, raspberries, dulce de leche caramel, flan hints, leather, marshmallow,stone fruit peaches, apricots, lychee, apples, brown sugar, toffee, piloncillo sugar cone, hazelnut, pecan pie, cinnamon, grape preserves and port wine hints.

Flavors:
Rich dark fruit raisins, plums, figs, cherries, prunes, raspberries, dulce de leche caramel, marshmallow, vanilla, flan, bananas, clove spice, brown sugar, piloncillo sugar cone, pecans, cinnamon, hazelnut, rich apples, stone fruit peaches, leather notes, toasted sweet bread with grape preserves, port wine hints, pecan pie, milk chocolate, anise, molasses, oak, chocolate cake and sweetened condensed milk Lechera hints.

Aftertaste:
Dark fruits prunes, raisins, pecan pie, linger, caramel, apples, earthy notes and vanilla. No alcohol in the taste, full brown body, sipping drinkability, medium and creamy mouthfeel.

Overall:
A perfect trappist beer! It’s strongest feature is the dark fruit and stone fruit forward flavos along with the apple and caramel. This beer is pretty close to the ranks of Achel Trappist and Westy 12 as each focuses on all the quad or some of the quad aspect so perfectly. This one makes its entry as being the most stone fruit forward of quads in the selections. If you Belgian beers, Quads and the Trappists beers for what they represent, then you will find this one to be rich and delicious as well. Definitely worth a pick up.

Anime Corner:
Ignis from Jingai Makyo was used in this pairing as I wanted to use a bad ass character to represent the monasteries like I have with other Trappist beer pairings but at the same time something that relates to them. That is, the holy and God aspect of beers. Heavenly really but at the same time her colors while white as a bride/Nun yet a warrior of God, like a monks, she represents also the dark and lighter stone fruit forwards of the beer as I described earlier. Seems like she can be the best candidate of representing what holy Trappist beers are all about.

Sources:
http://www.zerochan.net/full/720052

The Reverend by Avery Brewing

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10614379_10102005960436170_7970248436255967066_nRating: 5/5

The Reverend by Avery Brewing is a 10% ABV Belgian Quadrupel

Label:
The Holy Trinity of Ales

The reverend is a divinely complex and beautifully layered creation with hints of dark cherries, currants, and molasses, complimented by an underlying spiciness and a sinfully smooth 10% ALC/VOL.

Brewed with Rocky Mountain Water, Malted Barley. Imported Belgian Specialty malted barley, dark Belgian candy sugar, hops and yeast.
___

So I finally promised myself to get a bottle of this as when I first tried it at Uncle Henry’s earlier in the year, I said I would. So, even after passing it up several times for other beers, I finally got it to bring it forward for a review here at the site. This is a great beer that is served year round. While I personally think, leave it to Belgium, this one is on top of the greatest representatives of the Belgian Quad Style. Cheers!

Aromas:
Dark fruits like raisins, plums, rich dark cherries, figs, plums, currants, belgian candy sugar, phenolic notes, clove spice, banana hints, almonds, chocolate, dulce de leche caramel, hints of hazelnut, rich rye, citrus, tobacco hints, molasses and brown sugar.

Flavors:
Lots of dark fruits, raisins, figs, currants, rich dark cherries, plums, citrus, cinnamon, clove spice, rye bread, vanilla caramel, oats, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, Belgian candy sugar, Rock candy sugar, bananas, phenolic yeast, hazelnut, pecan notes, honey, tobacco hints, almonds, hints of chocolate, apples, toffee, grapes and raisin bread pudding.

Aftertaste:
Dark fruit, earthy spice, dulce de leche, almond, pecan, rye bread, earthy and clove spice notes.
Alcohol sweetness in the taste mainly but nothing detracting from the overall beer. Smooth and a bit syrupy mouth feel even for a sipping drink character with a medium to full body on an dark amber brown color. Dangerous beer.

Overall:
A perfect quad. This beer is a major reminiscent to the Surly Seviin. Definitely a lot of Belgian Candy sugar forward, with the dark fruits and rye bread mixing in but the bitterness comes from a mix of earthy and somewhat subtly citrusy notes. This quad is very enjoyable and it is a year round serving by Avery. I would definitely recommend this one for a try for sure.

Anime Corner:
Original character by jname was used in this pairing since I wanted to pair with the reverend. In the past, quads have always been paired with the like colors of dark fruits whether reds, purples or pinks. The power she holds in her hands is the power of the dark fruit reverend. Her dress signifies the complex Belgian flavors as well as rich candy sugars and caramels. The background is close to those of the Abbeys of Belgium paying a special tribute like that of the label, She is the Reverend possessing the power of God and will to do good in the beer world. Blessed be thy beers!

Sources:
http://anime-pictures.net/pictures/get_image/297943-931×1120-original-jname-long+hair-single-tall+image-red+eyes.jpg

Smokestack Series Bourbon Barrel Quad (BBQ) by Boulevard Brewing

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1379780_10101445795780630_1913651140_nRating: 5.35/5

Smokestack Series Bourbon Barrel Quad (BBQ) by Boulevard Brewing is an 11.8% ABV Belgian Quadrupel divided into 16% ale and 84% aged in bourbon barrels with cherries

Label: 
Based loosely on the Smokestack Series’ The Sixth Glass, this abbey-style quadrupel is separated into a number of oak bourbon barrels where it ages for varying lengths of time, some for up to three years. Cherries are added to make up for the “angel’s share” of beer lost during barrel aging. Selected barrels are then blended for optimum flavor. The resulting beer retains only very subtle cherry characteristics, with toffee and vanilla notes coming to the fore.
___

Limited release of this beer and I was able to find this one online on many of the supporters beerpulse.com has. I heard great things about this beer. Not only is it a quad, which is one of my favorite styles of beer, but also bourbon barrel aged. It is essentially the Sixth Glass in bourbon barrels with cherries

Aromas cherries, rich vanilla, bourbon, dulce de leche caramel, pecans, dark fruits like raisins, plums, figs, oak, wine grapes, port wine, good cheese and wine, flan, cinnamon, rye bread, earthiness, bananas, clove, funky notes and brandy

Flavors are of cherries, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, wine grapes, oak, dark fruits, raisins, figs, bananas, flan, brandy, good wine and cheese, cinnamon, brown sugar, candied sugar, dark cherries, pecan pie, walnuts and tart raspberry

Aftertaste is like a wine and fancy cheese glazed with dark fruit spread on rye bread. Oh yeah, and bourbon too. A definite sipper with alcohol presence but not present in the flavor.

Overall, the beer is freaking great. Fancy and delicious. It does not taste like BBQ but I am absolutely certain it sure pairs marvelously with a BBQ Chicken or Pork dinner. This is delicious as hell. Boulevard makes some awesome beers and I have only had the privilege to try few as they are from Colorado. Many will come soon. As far as this beer goes, it is definitely recommended. Yes it passes the extra credit course!!

Cuádruple 2011 edition by The Bruery

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1010684_10101265117436480_2062014029_n 1013963_10101265112845680_1263655758_nRating: 4.8/5

Cuádruple 2011 edition by The Bruery is a 10% ABV Provision Series Belgian Quadruple brewed with Agave

Label: 
Cuádruple is our spin on the classic Belgian-style quadruple, brewed with a heaping amount of dark agave nectar. It will age gracefully for several years. 

Description (beeradvocate):
Cuádruple combines elements of Belgium with elements of Mexico, hence the name, meaning “quadruple” in Spanish. We blended a classic Belgian quad recipe by removing the standard Belgian candi sugars and replacing them with dark agave syrup. The resulting beer is a luxurious tribute to two very different parts of the world. 
___

Was able to find this bottle at the Bruery tasting room for a decent amount. Interesting for them to sell a beer that has not been seen for several years. Oh well, when the opportunity rises. This beer has been aging for 2 years so I wanted to get a review going. There are not of agave beers out there or Tequila barrel aged beers for this matter. This one is unique since it is one of my favorite styles but made with agave instead. I have had agave juice by itself on several occasions as many of the local Mexican super markets sell the little bags of juice. As a kid, this was my version of Hi-C 

Aromas of this beer are of agave juice,lots of candi sugar, dulce de leche caramel on pecan pie, a sweet potato like fragrance, raisin bread pudding, plums, dates, rich figs, toffee, cinnamon, brown sugar and molasses.

The flavors are of definitely of a quadruple with the dulce de caramel, raisins, figs, plums, candi sugars, dates, ripe banana notes and spicy cloves followed by agave juice, dark chocolate, vanilla, dried apricots, sweet potato pie, pecans, walnuts, molasses and Tequila notes.

The flavors stay consistent through and through always bringing out rich quad notes with agave sweetness. After taste stays sweet with apricot bitterness and raisin sweetness. The beer hides the 10% ABV well making it of decent drinkability. An amazing beer with great flavors. Belgian beer lovers will find this one a bit different. The agave nectar really does the job taking the Belgian quad into more of a Mexican approach on delicious flavor.

St. Bernardus Abt 12 by Brouwerij St. Bernardus (Redux)

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547438_10101140074513500_1317156498_nRating: 6/5 *Like Trois Pistoles, this is a very common beer. Since my seek for the Holy grail of Westvleteren 12, I realized, that this beer is the closest but because of its commonality and its availability, it has become my favorite beer in the world right next to Trois Pistoles. Forget all the worldly hypes because this beer is truly from God!!

St. Bernardus Abt 12 by Brouwerij St. Bernardus is a 10%ABV World Class Belgian Abbey Quadrupel. 

Label: 
Brewery St. Bernardus was founded in 1946 in Watou, Province of West Flanders in Belgium. These exceptional quality ales are brewed by using only the finest malts, local grown hops, yeast and artesian water pumped from a depth of 500 feet. After the brewing process these traditional ales are matured in tanks for three months, before being bottle conditioned. The results is a naturally carbonated ’living ale,’ which can be aged for up to 15 years and will satisfy the taste of even the most discriminating connoisseurs. 

“Bringing heavenly nectar within reach”

Abt 12 – abbey ale brewed in the classic “Dubbel” Style of Belgium’s best Abbey Ales. Serve this noble and wonderfully balanced brown ale at 52-56 degrees Farenheit in a goblet glass to best enjoy its delicate bouquet
___

Here is some history from the Abbey and why it is very close to Westvleteren even without the “Trappist name”:http://belgianbeerspecialist.blogspot.com/2010/09/westvleteren-and-st-bernardus-real.html

I can give several reasons and do many more reviews of this beer’s grandeur. However, it would be nothing short of what I haven’t already covered in the past. I will be doing another review, in 15 years 😉

Past Reviews: https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/10/17/st-bernardus-abt-12-by-brouwerij-st-bernardus/

UPDATE:
I changed my mind, lets have at it. I still have some left over but also I still have one cellaring for the next 15 years. More than likely, as the earthy hops go down, this is gonna literally be a complete caramel sticky mess but so good I might give it a 7/5 ;). I realize my previous review may not do this enough justice. Fragrances are of raisin bread pudding, very rich dulce de leche caramel, earthy mild hops, apples, slight apricot, slight chocolate, more dark fruits like figs, grapes, slight cherries, banana, cloves, sweet bread, candi sugar, slight peppercorn notes and spices. The flavors are of rich liquid dulce de leche caramel, apples, banana, raisins, cherries, figs, raisin bread pudding, slight Leche Nestle (Sweetened Condensed milk) sugary notes, candi sugar, raisin bread pudding, pecan pie, brown sugar, clove, bubble gum, slight earthy hop notes, stone fruits, fruit cake, currants and slight wood oak like the dulce de leche they sell in Mexico that comes in wooden boxes. So there you have it. Now go get this one. Every craft brew place has this, it is hard to miss 🙂

 

Quandary by River North Brewing

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299285_10101112240103880_451478671_nRating: 5/5

Quandary by River North Brewing is a 9.6%ABV Quadrupel Ale 

Label: 
A dark Belgian-style ale you can’t quite put your finger on. Neirther wholly traditional nor modern. Familiar, but unidentifiably unique. An ale to slowly ponder, seldom decipher, yet always enjoy.
___

This beer’s name is surrounded in perplexity. First, there was no head nor lacing. At 9.6% I was concerned but at the same time intrigued as I thought that maybe this beer is strong but maybe it may hide the alcohol, or it may not. The aromas were nice of the typical quads I love. Dulce de leche caramel, dark fruits, cherries, toffee, banana bread, pecans, raisins, plums, bubble gum and spices. The flavors were where it hit reminding me of the Three Philosophers but not as heavy in terms of the rich bread and full body. However, the flavors are are pretty much there like the dark cherry, dulce de leche bread, pecan pie, bananas, bubble gum, raisins, figs, plums, chocolate notes, citrus, coriander, some pears and apples. The other crazy thing, is because this is a 9.6%, with hardly any carbonation, it is surprisingly drinkable. Alcohol is way to well hidden. I think that is what defines the perplexity in the name of the beer. It is like taking the 3 philosophers and making it lighter in terms of body and some complexity but still keeping the flavor consistency but moderate. I simple terms, it is less filling even if higher ABV. I would like to call it 3 Philosophers light but the beer is actually stronger in ABV. This is not a common beer in California but if I would find it again, I would pick it up for those days I want to just drink quads with less filling 🙂 (What is this a bud commercial? lol). Has that right amount of good flavors I love of some of the best quads in the world but not too involved. Belgian lovers will definitely hit up this one. I think even people that probably don’t like heavy quads might find this appealing. Basically take in the awesome flavors while not being too overwhelming or filling.

Lips of Faith Series Cascara Quad by New Belgium

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577377_10101092847541730_1773082401_nRating: 4.75/5

Lips of Faith Series Cascara Quad by New Belgium is 10%ABV Belgian Quadrupel brewed with dates and coffee cherries added

Label: 
Local roasters Novo Coffee turned us onto Central America’s Cascara, the fruit or husk that surrounds coffee beans. When dried, it can be made into a tea with hints of cherry and tobacco. Blend that into a quad fermented with gorgeous malts and date sugar for a crazy complex beer to warm winter nights. 
___

Freaking sweet. Quads are some of my best styles out there. To know that NB brewed a quad, definitely had to get 2 of these. The aromas are somewhat apparent but still there. Chocolate, cherries, biscuit bread, vanilla, caramel, some dark fruits, a little bit of bananas and very faint oakyness or brown sugar. Flavors are almost like Three Philosophers, almost. Cherries, chocolate, dulce de leche caramel, bananas, cloves, phenolic esters, biscuit bread, coffee cake, raisin and pecan pudding, dates, toffee, tobacco, candi sugars, . In terms of flavor, that is what hits this one home. Maybe not as aromatic as other quads but the flavors are great. The balance could use a little work as you can sense the alcohol but doesn’t detract too much from the flavors of this one. I picked up 2 since I thought it would be awesome. Well, I sure was not disappointed. This is still a very good beer and would pick up again if no other quads available. Also, at 10% this is definitely a winner. Just be careful because if it warms up then the booze becomes more apparent but the complexity is still complex but not supremely complex. Some people may like this while others may not.

The Three Philosophers by Ommegang (New Label)

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526229_10101069453857860_931053769_n 313764_10101069469122270_1245414941_n 382348_10101069469087340_1594364830_nRating: 5/5

Already did a review on this beer a while back. This is the version with the new label. Still one my top favorite beers in the world.

Label:
The Belgian motto is “Strength in Union.” No phrase better describes Ommegang’s delicious Three Philosophers Quadrupel, which unites malty Belgian-style ale with Liefmans Kriek, authentic cherry ale from Belgium. Dark, mysterious cherry-chestnut color. Pair with Strong Cheeses, desserts, or sip as an after dinner ale. 

https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/11/05/the-three-philosophers-by-ommegang-2/

Blasphemy (2 year aged edition) by Weyerbacher

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484917_10101066229968560_1726995094_nRating: 5.9/5 (2013 2 year aged)

Blasphemy (2 year aged edition) by Weyerbacher is an 11.8% Trappist Belgian Quadruple/Quad Ale aged in Bourbon Barrels. I found a 2011 bottle last year (based on the bottled date) and aged it for close to a second year. So this is a 2 year old aged quad. The ABV is probably higher, in the 13-15% maybe

Label:
Blasphemy is our award winning QUAD aged in bourbon barrels. But not overaged, so we’ve picked up gentle vanilla oaky notes which complement rather than supercede the complex qualities that already make QUAD such an incredible beer.
___

Based on the label… another year of aging may probably make it more complex. In fact, some beers with ABV’s (except some hoppy IPAs, lagers, some pilsners and others) above 9% can age nicely. Some can age for as much as 10 to 15 years. I was not gonna risk this one too much although technically I could have >:). Upon opening the beer, it explodes with complex aromas of pecan pie, bourbon, vanilla, dulce de leche caramel, hazelnut pecan pie crust, whipped cream, buttered toffee, bananas, coconut, oak and a ton of dark fruits, wine characters and even champagne like characters. IS this really a quad? The flavors are very orgasmic to say the least. I took this beer into the upper echelons of craft beer flavors. In the past year when I first reviewed this beer, I made it a top 10 favorite. Well, now it just butted its face into the territory of my top favorite beers in the world. It is butting heads with St. Bernardus, Trois Pistoles, Chocolate Rain, Black Tuesday and Grey Monday. For a beer to meet such a rich completion is just too good to be true. The beer envelops the taste buds with with strong complex flavors of Dulce de leche caramel, pecan pie, hazel nut honey, walnuts, capirotada, vanilla ice cream, waffle cone, Irish cream, bananas, coconut, oak wood, butterscotch, bourbon, cherries, dark fruits like raisins, plums, blue and black berries, wine grapes, port wine, champagne flavors like apples, peaches, pears and some graham crackers and marshmallows. The only thing missing is chocolate although I could have swore some notes in there… maybe … maybe not. But then it would be a Belgian Stout aged in Bourb-… oh wait…lol. The beer is quite heavy in flavor and the alcohol can only be savored with the rest of the flavors and not diminish from the other rich flavors. A mind blowing experience!! Well at least for me. Way better than last years review. Well played Weyerbacher, well played….. 

2012 Review:
Rating: 5/5 

Blasphemy!!!! is what they will be saying…Blasphemy!!!. How could you drink, Weyerbacher’s 11.8% ABV Quadruple ale!! is what they will say. Yes you will be expelled from the rights to eternal salvation…yes you will be kicked out of society…yes you will be disowned and abandoned….but never fear…maybe this time you can make your mind straight and pursue something you really want out of life. No one should lay and die…life is about giving it your all!!

This is what I thought at first try. I didn’t even know this was gonna be like this. I am a major fan of Quadruple fermented ales. This one adds to one of my easy favorites. How did this happen you say? Well, it happened at the first sip. I got a ton of bourbon, whiskey caramel angel share like flavor along with a pecan pie. Yes a PECAN Pie. Adding vanilla, caramel, raisins, bananas, cherries and other dark breads, fruit and other complexities…… WOW….I have had many good beers that I am super thrilled about but this one just waltz into my cathedral of top ten beers, took a drunken piss all over…made me clean it…and said …”I’m the new fucken beer in these parts”. How could I say no…DAMN Little bitch!!!.. (Remembers the Raven’s Nevermore of Edgar Allan Poe). Let me just say one thing about this beer, aside from tasting like pecans and pecan pie with sweet dark fruits, The devil really is in the details. The 11.8% ABV is masked way too well. Like there is no burn or bitterness to it. How could this be from a beer that is not well known? Sorry to those that do not understand extremely good beer….Our taste may differ, but while one drinks to justify his social habits …another works in the arts of taste, art and experience….and social…depending if I see the same point of view ofcourse. My Belgian Beer Brethren will not be disappointed by this one. Whether the alcohol, the devil or the beer talking, whether Blasphemous or not…I have to tell you…this one beer is supreme!!

Ovila Abbey Quad with Plums collaboration between Sierra Nevada and the Monks of the New Clairvaux Monastery

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26316_10101052519783880_1276305417_nRating: 4.75/5

Ovila Abbey Quad with Plums collaboration between Sierra Nevada and the Monks of the New Clairvaux Monastery is a 10.2%ABV Belgian Abbey Quad brewed with Sugar Plums.

Label:
Ovila Abbey Quad with plums is heady with aromas of caramel, rich malt, and dark fruit-balanced by the spiciness and delicate fruity notes of a traditional Belgian yeast. This beer features sugar plums grown on the grounds of the Abbey, and harvested by the monks in Vina. We hope you enjoy this collaboration ale.
___

Ahh just like my favorite style but with stronger dark fruits. The fragrances includes lots of sweet Plums, raisins, prunes, cherry, vanilla, candi sugar, dulce de leche caramel bread, capirotada, banana and pecans. The flavors are of plums, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, bread, chocolate, raisins, plum sauce, prunes, cherries, bananas, candi sugars, Belgian yeast, capirotada with plums and raisins, molasses, clove and coriander spice, nutmeg, pecans and minor port wine. The after taste taste dry but plum fruity. The regular quad was more focused on the overall Trappist balance. While this is really nice and awesomely good, it still was more plum driven than the original Ovila quad. Not a bad thing at all but I enjoy the more caramel like Ovila quad. This is still pretty epic and up there with the dark fruit concentrated types. Belgian beer lovers get this one. Surely a must try and a must pick up again 😛

I go into depth about the New Clairvaux Monastery in my original review:https://brewerianimelogs.wordpress.com/2012/10/30/ovila-quad-by-sierra-nevada/

Samaranth Quadrium Ale by De Leyerth Brouwerijen (Urthel)

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549968_10100997917567160_192167254_nRating: 4.9/5

Samaranth Quadrium Ale by De Leyerth Brouwerijen (Urthel) is an 11% ABV Quadrupel Ale

Label:
Urthel Samaranth 12 Quadrium Ale is a malty, full-bodied special Ale, brewed in a way that only Belgian Brewers can. Huge mouthfeel and layers and levels of flavor make Urthel Samaranth the perfect beer for the end of a meal or at the finish of a special day. And when you want something different, Urthel Samaranth 12 Quadrium Ale is with its fine bitterness, definitely something different… Try it! First brewed at Van Steenberge, now brewed at Koningshoeven – La Trappe brewery.
___

I was recommended this beer by a friend advising that it was pretty awesome. In fact, seems like most things from Belgium are very awesome. So I decided to give it a shot. This one however is actually brewed in the Netherlands for The Leyerth, Ruiselede, Flanders, Belgium. The fragrance starts off with caramel, candied sugars, raisins, grapes, oak, slight boozyness, and some sweet bread. Upon trying it I noticed a good amount of rich dulce de leche caramel and raisin bread pudding, toffee, walnuts, cinnamon, apples, plums, grapes, bananas, nutmeg, cloves and a little bit of that yeast phenol . The aftertaste is almost like yogurt trail mix with a slight boozyness. The alcohol is mildly present in the taste but does not take away from the sweet overall flavors of the beer. It is a great beer if you can find it. 😛

Decadence 2012 Anniversary Ale by Ale Smith Brewing

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317988_10100989000392250_1238405132_nRating: 5/5

Decadence 2012 Anniversary Ale by Ale Smith Brewing is a 12%ABV Belgian Quadruple Ale. Right below The Cloak of St. Martin 13% ABV, this is the strongest quad I have ever tried. Each year, decadence is a different beer style. This year pays tribute to the Belgian Monasteries and their age old brewing methods for Holy Beers 

Label:
Alesmith Decadence Anniversary Ale was originally brewed in 2005 to celebrate our first decade in business. Our brewers had such a great time creating it that they decided to brew a new style each year to commemorate our anniversary.

Now, seventeen years after we started, we’re proud to present another great addition in this ongoing series. AleSmith Decadence® 2012 is a big Belgian-style quadruple ale. A variety of Belgian malts impart notes of bread and ripe fruit with subtle hints of cloves and molasses. Its creamy mouthfeel is balanced by a rich, full-bodied finish. This rare offering is meant to be savored and will age nicely.
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Get this one while it is still out there. Belgian Quads or Quadrupel ales are some of my all time favorite beers being fermented 4 times to release a world of complexity that truly creates a world class style of beer. The aromas of the Decadence the the similar dulce de leche caramel, raisin bread, dark fruits and candied sugars like other quads. However, Decadence seems to offer some more aromas. From what I can tell, I gather some ginger bread, fruit cake, cherries, cinnamon and banana cloves. Almost Christmasy in a way. The flavors are pretty much like the name. So decadent and delicious. WOW… first sip and It was a just a bit more than the fragrances gave into. Dulce de leche, caramel, chocolate, a small amount of mocha coffee, ginger bread, bananas esters, cloves, molasses, anise, cherries, cinnamon, dates, pecans, raisins, plums, and slight raisin bread pudding flavor. It is almost in par with The Lost Abbey’s Judgment Day Ale except it has more flavors and much stronger in flavors and in ABV. Forget the fact that it says 12%ABV, you can’t tell that it is even in there. It gets you later but no strong boozyness just a lot of sweet Belgian caramel dark fruit bread goodness….. This is a must grab for Belgian fans…

Quadrophenia by Black Market Brewing

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556706_10100940989097270_1345948295_nRating: 4.75/5

Quadrophenia by Black Market Brewing is a 11% ABV Quadrupel ale.

Label:

Quadrophenia is a Belgian style quadruple ale. Trappist ale yeast adds the spicy , phenolic flavors sometimes mistaken for added spices. The caramel come from the Coconut Palm Sugar added to the brew to lighten the body. The smoothness of Quadrophenia is deceptive, but make no mistake, it’s 11%ABV. Enjoy Quadrophenia in a chalice or tulip style glass.
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Quadrupels are some of my favorite beers in the world. Each one more sweet than others. This is the first beer I try from this brewery so I’ll see how it is. Fragrance of the beer starts off with a nice scent ot that banana esters, caramel, dulce de leche bread, candi sugars and dark fruits. Some slight citrus off fragrance as well. The flavors are just like that of the quadrupel ales that I enjoy. Banana and raisin bread, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, plums, candi sugar, slight chocolate, toffee and spices. Some oakyness in there is in the aftertaste but the sugar is still dominant. It is not like some of the other Belgian Quads that have that Mexican cajeta (caramel) flavors but minor oak is there . The most interesting part about this beer is its drink ability. It goes down pretty smooth. The alcohol is not harsh for being 11% ABV. Well done with the balance of flavors as well. Quadrupel and Belgian beer lovers may like this one. It is delicious but it still missing that authenticity of Belgian that could only be produce with the strictest of ingredients. Having sugar added might not make it as authentic although the Trappist yeast does. Regardless, it is still a great beer worthy of the try. It goes down so well and not too overwhelming. It hits those quad notes for me for sure. LOL Although it is harder to find than let’s say..oh St. Bernadus 12 abt 😉

The Three Philosophers by Ommegang

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Rating: 5/5

The Three Philosophers by Ommegang is a 9.8%ABV Belgian Quadrupple ale blended with 2% Belgian Kriek (Cherry Belgian Ale). This, is my third next best beer in the world, right next to Trois Pistoles and St. Bernardus 12. It is simply remarkable. This is the 2012 edition and I have tried this beer several times to know I really like this one. This beer is now available at Downey Brewery. 

Label:
Created by blending a rich, malty, Belgian-style ale with authentic Kriek, a classic cherry ale from Belgium, our Quadruple is cultured yet wild, curious yet wise.
And remember “Phisolophy Begins in Wonder” – Plato
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The fragrance of the beers is like that of mix of sweet bread, vanilla, caramel and cherries. It is really robust with fragrance. The flavors are very rich. While in some reviews I mentions flavors where in small amounts, medium or rich, this is really rich. Dulce de leche bread, vanilla, capirotada (Mexican Bread Pudding with raisins, except this is with cherries and raisins), cinnamon, tangy cherries, raisins, dark fruits like figs and plums, some banana clove, minor pecan, hint of dark chocolate, brown sugar, alittle bit of wine sour grapes but not a lot, just a hint. Many people that have tried this beer enjoyed it. So I don’t see why it would be one of the best. This talking from my personal experience. It is widely available year round in 750ml bottles or in 330ml 4 packs an many craft beers places. Yes, amazingly enough, some of the best beers in the world for me are closer to home than some of the other beers I tired 😛

2011 Review:
SO….. this year I tried the 2011 version. LOL well it is almost the end of the year :P. The Three Philosophers by Ommegang is a true Belgian Quadruple brewed with Cherries. This style is called Kriek where you find a diversity of wine like/beer like flavors as a cherry ale is mixed with this Belgium beauty. Caramel, cherry, bread, unique deliciousness as only found in brews that are the best in 
the world. This is one of my top 10 beers. Originally introduced by my friend Chino, this is a world class for sure. Once that is often missed but surely a necessary pickup. Sometimes I wish they could invent an X-ray tongue tasting device where I can walk into the bev mo or any other craft brew store and learn to pick out the brews of ultimate deliciousness for myself. Sure, there are reviews and all but taste is everything. Until you try it for yourself then you will understand for sure….For anyone that reads my albums here on Facebook you should probably send me some feed back let me know what kind of brews you would like to see posted on here and I will try them and write about them….let me know :)…thanks for reading 😀

Ovila Quad by Sierra Nevada

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Rating: 4.8/5

Ovila Quad by Sierra Nevada is a 10.4% ABV Quadruple Fermented Belgian Style ale. Sierra Neveda worked with the New Clairvaux Monastery in Vina California. The project as stated in the label was a touch for Sierra Nevada to get into the fermented ales but also for the proceeds to go to Santa Maria de Ovila chapter house within the New Clairvaux Abbey which was built from the SacredStones of Spanish Monastery in Trillo. The Stones were shipped to California where the monks of the Vina started to rebuild the Abbey by hand.

Label:
A collaboration between Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. and the monks at the Abbey of New Clairvaux, Ovila Abbey Quad brings the centuries-old monastery brewing tradition to America. Ovila Abbey Quad is rich and complex with layers of flavor including notes of intense dark fruits, and caramel-like maltiness. Rich and complex, this ale should be shared among friends in the true spirit of the season. A portion of the proceeds from this ale goes toward the restoration of the historic Santa Maria de Ovila chapter house on the grounds of the Abbey of New Clairvaux. This medieval building stood for nearly eight centuries in Spain. William Randolph Hearst purchased the monastery in 1931 and planned to use the stones for a castle even grander than his famous San Simeon. Although Hearst’s plans crumbled, these historic stones will rise again in a California Cistercian abbey. So this beer is yet a fine example of great alcohol masking, dulce de leche caramel, dark fruit, bread beer as inspired by the Abbeys of Belgium. This beer has some sweet vanilla and banana pecan goodness that reminds me of the Weyerbacher Blasphemy but more lighter. While that beer is harder to find, I can find this easier. Raisins, plums, minor bread and wine aftertaste. I was skeptic about this new line of beers as many people have up and down feelings about Sierra Nevada. I tend not to judge though as they have been making decent beers for years. In fact, my gut feeling was right. Try a beer before you make the decision. This is really good. While at 10.4%ABV, the rich sweet flavors mask it way to well. Almost feels like it is easy drinking quite the smooth one at that. Be careful though, it will get you back. A Quad from Monks in California inspired by an Old Abbey that existed in Spain, this is so cool 😀

Straffe Hendrik Bruges Quadruple Ale II by De Halve Maan Brewery of Bruges Belgium

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Rating: 4.95/5

Straffe Hendrik Bruges Quadruple Ale II by De Halve Maan Brewery of Bruges Belgium is a 11% ABV Belgian Quadruple. One of my favorite styles of beers, the quad as mentioned in previews reviews, a beer that goes through 4 different types of fermentation and aging processes leaving a mostly dark and strong Belgian beer. These beers have very strong noticeable flavors of bread, caramel and sometimes dulce de leche flavors with a lot of complexity and dark fruit flavors. As with most of these beers, aging process is EXTREMELY IMPORTANT. As with good wines, so does these good beers. The aging process will take these beers into something completely different. What this tastes like today in this review, will taste different every, 3,5,7, 10 or even 15 years from now. Something that my rating system will need to expand beyond the 5’s im sure. Here is some history about this Belgian brew:

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Straffe Hendrik Quadruple is a rich and intense dark Belgian ale. It is brewed with a subtle blend of specialty malts, which give the ale an extremely dark color and a chewy, malty complex character. The quadruple combines a clean dryness with a warm full bodied mouth feel and essences of fruit. Secondary fermentation in the bottle creates a living ale that can be aged and will have an evolution of taste profiles over time. It is brewed by the last active brewery in the historical city of Bruges. The town archives first mention the brewery in 1546. Since 1856, the famous brewing family Maes-Vanneste has owned the brewery.
—-This Belgian beer aside from its bready, caramel, and raisin properties boast of pears, apples, cherries, figs, plums as well as notes of vanilla, dates, hazelnut, burnt sugar, toffee, chocolate, butterscotch and pecans. A creamy and buttery beer with so much to offer that will “fly you to the moon and back”. Flavors and treasures that can only come from one of my favorite styles of beers. Belgian quads, tripels, dubbels and Trappists. Let’s not forget the Dark Belgian strong ales like the Troise Pistoles…

Judgement Day Ale by The Lost Abbey

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ImageA revisit to the beer that started it all for me. The beer art, beer tasting, and beer experience. This is that Very beer that has the awesome label about life. Very inspiring reading “Live an inspired life. Find opportunities in everything to make difference. Seek out new and spontaneous adventures, and when you find them them, embrace them as if they were the devil’s song. For an interesting life is worth living. Challenge yourself to embrace passion, persistence and a motivated way of life. So that when judgement day approaches from nowhere, you’ll go out knowing you’ve lived your life on your terms and they can’t take that away from you.” Simply amazing quote and simply and amazing Quad ale which is this, The Lost Abbey Judgement Day Ale brewed with raisins. Flavors are very impacting from the dark fruits, cherries, chocolate, brown sugar, vanilla and caramel. A creamy smooth beer yet heavy at 10.5% ABV. The Belgian yeast of bready goodness is there for sure and is fermented 4 times. Quads are definitely some of my favorite beers in the world and this is definitely in my most 10 ten best beers of all time. I highly recommend this one without a shadow of a doubt. Come to think of it, it was around this time last year when I enjoyed my first bottle. Looking back with a more experienced tongue brings a greater appreciation to this crazy hobby of mine. Something that will last me for quite a long time …and I am thankful because my life is interesting to me and doing it in my terms is always the best :)….Cheers for beers…..and say your prayers >:)

St. Bernardus Abt 12 by Brouwerij St. Bernardus

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ImageOMG!!!…put it simply, like drinking dulce de leche with a nice bread. The St. Bernardus Abt 12 is rated one of the best quad style ales in the world. It is up there next to the westvleteren 12, but not as expensive and recently easy to find at the local Bevmo. I got this one in Wally’s Wine house but say it at the Bevmo in Manhattan beach. Quite frankly, one of the best trappiste Belgian ales I have ever had. I will soon be trying the Westvleteren but this beer is by far really good. There is Belgian yeast, some roasted malts, what I believe caramelized sugar, no hops,dark fruit, raisins, cherries, and fig flavors. The sugar rush hits you instantly but it feels really good. Alcohol is there but you honestly cannot tell as it is extremely well masked by that caramelized Belgian yeast combo. This reminds me of the time I had the Black Xantus. However with this one, no chocolate dessert needed. THIS IS YOUR DESSERT!!. Right next to franzy dark, my next favorite beer 😀

REVISIT: Hands down, truly the best beer in the world in my opinion, right next to the unreachable westy 12 and the common Trios Pistoles. Ahh Quad ales…simply the best in the world. I read more about this beer. These ales are brewed with the finest malts, local grown hops, yeast and artesian water pumped from a depth of 500 feet. Truly monks beer…as brewed in those Belgian monasteries. The ales are actually “alive” mainly due to the yeast strains that consume sugar to produce the alcohol and carbonation. If the nectar of the gods was truly this, this is it and its very easy to find thank fully :). Wonder if Jesus ever had a go at beers aside from turning water into wine :P.