Belgian Tripel

• Belgium
• Ale
• ABV = 7.5 – 9.5% (High)^
• IBU = 20-40
• SRM = 4.5-7

A strong, gold-coloured Belgian ale with spicy, fruity, and light alcohol notes, supportive grainy-sweet malt and a dry finish.

Similar to a Belgian Golden Strong Ale but slightly darker and somewhat fuller-bodied, with more emphasis on phenolics and less on esters. Usually has a more rounded malt flavour but should never be sweet.

Appearance:

• Colour^ = Straw to gold
• Clarity = Good

Key Aromas & Flavours:

Aroma

• Malt = Low; grainy-sweet, honey-like
• Yeast = Moderate; fruity esters (orange, banana) / moderate to high; spicy, peppery, clove-like phenols / low; soft, spicy alcohol
• Hops = Low; spicy, floral, sometimes perfumy

Flavour

• Malt = Low; grainy-sweet, may be honey-like
• Yeast = Low to moderate; fruity esters (orange, lemon) / low to moderate; peppery phenols / low; soft, spicy alcohol
• Hops = Low to moderate; spicy
• Perceived Bitterness^ = Moderate
• Balance = Towards the fruity, spicy, alcohol flavours; bitterness (from hops and yeast-produced phenolics) does not overwhelm these flavours, as malt is there in support

Aftertaste/Finish

Substantial carbonation and bitterness lends a dry finish with a moderately bitter aftertaste with substantial spicy-fruity yeast character

Mouthfeel:

• Body = Medium
• Carbonation = High; effervescent
• Alcohol warmth = The alcohol content is deceptive and has little to no obvious warming sensation