Rugged Monk Trappist Ale
Bent River Brewing Co.

I expected more "funk" with Trappists than when I got with this brew. It had the Belgian smell and the dark straw color I was expecting.

But it tastes great otherwise. For a tripel, it is very smooth. But the taste fell in line with Saisons than with a traditional Trappist. I mark it as a "3" due to this. Otherwise, I would rate it much higher.

And be careful because I found it very easy to sip away a pint, followed by another, followed by another until the growler was done - and me along with it.

Presentation: On tap, 16oz pint glass

Appearance: Dark golden hazy brew with a small ivory cap from light pour

Smell: Big yeasty banana and clove up front...simple but nice

Taste: Pretty much dead on from the aroma, with the addition of a bit of sweet, sugary bubblegum

Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied

Drinkability: High

Conclusion: While this doesn't come close to the complexities of the authentic Trappist or Abbey beers of Belgium, it is a quite tasty, drinkable local Belgian-style brew...something not often found in downstate IL.

A: Cloudy apricot with a wispy head that doesn't retain well. Leaves no lace. The weakest part of the beer.

S: Very sweet in the nose. Raisins, apples and pears interplay nicely. A strong dose of clove balances the sweetness.

T: Very vinous initially. The fruit notes from the nose find their way seemlessly into the flavor. A biting clove bitterness comes on quickly. An alcohol warmth joins in. The beer finishes tart, dry and slightly sour.

M: The body is heavy and slightly syrupy. The carbonation feels a bit high.

D: This is a nice offering from Bent River. The strength makes this more of a night cap.