Dubbel Trubbel
Royal Oak Brewery

not necessarily what you'd think of when you think of a dubbel, but a very creative take on the style. appearance is a brownish maroon color, with a thin, pale head that leaves significant lacing. smell is of liquorice and alcohol -- it is obvious that a heavy amount of anise is involved here. taste is just what you would expect from the smell -- anise is the most prevalant flavor, with caramel maltiness on the finish to keep things balanced out. excellent job keeping the beer drinkable when it easily could've been too bitter. mouthfeel is a little bit thin/light, but nothing to complain about. the only things hindering the drinkability of this beer, and neither of these are complaints from me, are the anise flavor and the high alcohol content. if you are adverse to either of those things, this may not be the beer for you, but for me, they make quite the combination.

A unique interpretation of the dubbel style. Presented a medium brown color with a small head of white foam. A distinct note of liquorice and earthy spice. Taste was consistant with the smell; lots of black liquorice, spice, medium caramel and dark malts, and only hints of hops. Mouthfeel was lighter, but maintained a good consitancy and smoothness. Drinkability is pretty good for the style. Probably not for "dubbel" purists, but I like what they did with this one. Worth trying.