Tripel
Brouwerij West

This release -- courtesy of Beer Drop -- is 9% ABV, close enough. (UnTappd lists a BW Tripel at 9 ABV with 1858 ratings averaging 3.69 and the velocity is slowing down. UnTappd's description helps explain BW's Tripel: "A Golden Strong Ale brewed using only base malt, Belgian candi sugar, noble hops, and our house yeast.")

As for me, this house yeast is not specifically enough a tripel yeast... which the masters typically cultivate. Not having the higher level yeast for tripels, BW's Tripel lacks the protein swirls and full-fruit bowl aromas of the masters. Tastes are certainly good, but lack full-ness and complexity. Pepper is prominent in the yeast's contribution to spicing. Less active in my mouth, call BW's tripel medium to light.

In case I seem harsh and below the BA average, I will revisit BW's Tripel soon as I bought two cans from Beer Drop.

In the meantime, I want to encourage BW. LA is a big place and BW being a young micro specializing in a difficult tradition is work enough and deserves encouragement. Hence, unusually good Overall Hugs.

 

A rich tripel with a velvety mouth feel, a mild wild yeast-loke, plum apricot aroma, and a rich, fruity flavor with pear and pumpkin. Watou Tripel is my No. 1 overall beer and this is a worthy competitor.