Brandy Barrel Aged Belgian Tripel
Martin City Brewing Company

 

A: Deep ruby, orange hues. Some froth, but it subsides quickly. Proper amount of lacing.

S: Deep aromas of alcohol and passion fruit, with the brandy definitely noticeable in the bouquet.

T: Complex flavor profile which includes citrus and passion fruit flavors, which subside to the toasty caramel and alcoholic flavors from the brandy barrels.

F: Smooth for the style but with a real buttery texture. Drinkable but up tot a point. After my second glass, I started to get full.

O: This may be their best known and loved brew among true beer geeks, and I agree it is a fine ale. Still, cannot touch the Belgian originals (Westmalle being the standard bearer, still).

this beer kicks butt. its a great base tripel, not too sweet, and the brandy barrel really pops it off to the next level. there is a bit of haze, but its clear as the style goes, and the head is over two inches tall and looking really alive. it smells like the barrel right away, sweet desserty wine notes and oak, delicious. the belgian yeast is right out front too, spicy and with notes of orange and clove. it all comes together really nicely in the taste as well, with the orange and the wheat going together really well. its not so intense on the yeast like some of the old world examples of the style, and i like that, it lets the barrel be more in place and engaging, not messy at all, not over done, but calculated perfectly. its fluffy feeling, thick a little bit, heavy strong ale for sure, with great carbonation to keep it moving and a long sweet woody finish from the brandy barrel. its a neat barrel to use with this style, unique and delicious. have not had much beer from martin city, so this was a heck of an introduction. hints of marshmallow, dried citrus, oatmeal, and candy sugar are all there in the finish with the barrel. well made and clever.

Suprised by that this small brewery could make such a big sophisticated beer! A real treat!