Behind Abbey Doors
Pollyanna Brewing Company

Served from the can in a Mickey Finn's shaker pint glass.

The tabloids that make their money off of reporting on what goes on behind abbey doors are publications I don't wanna read. I'm messed up enough, thanks. Anyway, this stuff pours a mostly clear midnight garnet topped by a finger of glowing off-tan foam. The nose comprises clove, light midnight wheat, light dried maple syrup, light nutmeg, and a touch of rye toast. The taste leans on the clove, though the toast and some brown sugar-y molasses (I know, I know) make a strong showing in the second wave. The body is a lithe medium, with a light moderate carbonation and a fluid feel. Overall, a nice Belgian-style brown, one that could use a bit of polish and dimension, but nonetheless one that drinks more than easily.

While the Belgian Brown/Bruin/Brune was started as a rubric style, I think it kinda makes sense for it to have a catch-all. Best yet, Pollyanna has done a pretty good job of catching all the variations possible in this catch-all style... but the result is not the same as a masterful brew.

Behind Abbey Doors Looks like it could be great; great head and nice ruby highlights. Smells are less dark-fruity than I'd prefer; actually average. Tastes are good; but I think the missing ingredient that Pollyanna can learn from the monks is how to use brewers sugar... it would improve the aromas and deepen the sweet and, in so doing, temper the spices. A more active yeast will help also. This medium-mouthed Bruin washed my palate for both soup and pizza for dinner. Overall, a good table ale (for winter) from Pollyanna.

As a 7 year old, Pollyanna is doing well. They are getting better at the Belgian tradition and their Orenda series shows it... Behind Abbey Doors, not so much. Abbey secrets take longer to duplicate as this name recognizes. Focus on the Belgian yeast and the successes will come faster. A votre Sante' !

10/27/21 Had another can. This from the 1/21 batch. Less enthusiastic. Edited the above review a little and reduced the rating by over .25. I don't know why one can is so different. Easiest advice: focus on the yeast.

 

16oz can dated 01/21/21 and poured into a snifter shows a ruddy copper body and supports a proud 1" head of khaki mixed bubbles that recedes to the edge and leaves erratic webbed lacing.

Aromas of toasted malts meld with the yeast esters; clove and banana and flow into the taste.

Light to medium mouthfeel with lively carbonation and a clean finish.

Overall a pleasure to enjoy with shepard's pie.