Belgian Strong Ale
Dragon's Gate Brewery

really nice take on the style, one of our favorites from our visit to this rad little brewery. very true to style, not much deviation from the expected on this one, but a real well executed brew. high shine brassy to bronze pour, just off clear, short but sudsy white head from the tap. it smells a little alcoholic, but thats okay in this style, some sweet baked type malts, a toasted depth, honey and candy sweetness, floral notes from the yeast, simple in some ways, familiar but with their own little fermentation nuance. the flavor follows this, sweet and strong the whole way, with wrinkles of citrus, toffee, dried flowers, and yeasty spiciness, cohesive and balanced, warming booziness gets to the edge of hot at temperature, but i like the boldness of the whole thing, and there is enough body in here that its not overly exposed. nice linger on the palate after each sip, faint metallic character as it warms, but overall tidy enough. good carbonation, this never quite feels heavy, and a freshness about it too. lots of fun belgian styles in here, a great atmosphere, good service, and stunning scenery. i highly recommend a visit here!