Favorite Quads

Rochefort 10 is all you need

 

Since you last had Sixth Glass Boulevard's distribution has increased immensely so I think you should have no problem finding it if you visit the states. Though the three you listed are all superior IMO. The only other one I could think of that is pretty widely distributed and comparable to your list is Pannepot.

 

It is tough to add to that list. In China or anywhere. I would suggest trying Three Philosophers if you were in the states but I am sure it isn't available there. Cheers!

 

Kane 1460 4th anniversary beer!

 

Pannepot.

 

Three Philosophers is delicious. I picked up a bomber for around $9 on sale

 

Sixth Glass is a great, affordable quad -- but I agree with others that Rochefort 10 and Pannepot are a cut above. I'm one of those who thinks Westy is noticeably better, but maybe not worth the effort if you're outside Europe.

 

I would say that Westvleteren 12, Pannepot and Rochefort 10 are different enough that they are not interchangeable.

I've been disappointed in La Trappe, Chimay Blue and aged St. Bernardus Abt 12 lately. St. Bernardus is best around 2years or even younger.

 

My list of "essential" quads looks something like this:

Belgian
- Westy 12
- Rochefort 10
- St . Bernardus 12 (Christmas, Oak Aged Abt 12)
- Pannepot (Reserva, Grand Reserva, St. Amatus)
- La Trappe Quad (Oak Aged) - NOT Belgian, but Dutch (but Trappist and closer to Belgian than American)
- Kasteel Donker
- Straffe Hendrik Quadrupel (Heritage)

American
- Boulevard Sixth Glass (Bourbon Barrel Quad)
- Ommegang Three Philosophers
- Allagash Four
- Lost Abbey Judgement Day

And because I'm a serious homer, a big shout to Three Taverns Quasimodo, Heavy Bells, and Feest Noel, Wild Heaven Eschaton, and Burnt Hickory Charred Walls of the Damned. Dig Straight to Ale's 5th Anniversary Quad, too.

 

I would agree with much of this. And whereas Westy 12 doesn't come into its own until it's had 1-2 years of age, St. Bernardus Abt 12 is best fresh to me.

 

I style I also enjoy as well, especially Rochefort 10.

 

Rochfort 10 seemed a bit overcooked for my taste the two times I had it - I'd prefer 8 over it. However, La Trappe Oak Aged Quad aged in wine barrels was hearty and complex, as are Chimay, Ommegang 3 Philosophers, and Avery's Reverend is a good dark horse.

 

Rochefort 10 is especially built for aging. The qualities you are mentioning are pros when it comes to cellaring. Phenolic and full of fusel alcohols. You wouldn't drink a J.W. Lees fresh either.


Also, I forgot to mention Cuvee de Keizer Blauw by Het Anker.

 

I'm always surprised that straffe hendrick isn't mentioned more often when it comes to high quality easily available quads, its probably my go to quad with rochefort 10 a close second

 

That's one helluva list!

 

Thanks, and it's actually a short list. There are a few neat picks that I didn't list such as Jopen Ongelovige (Doubting) Thomas. I felt the need to expand further our after Shelton Bros. pulled out of Georgia and took Struise with them. Still haven't recovered from that blow.

 

Any suggestions for Barrel Aged Quads? I have a few bottles of Stickee Monkee but would like to try others.

 

Boulevard BBQ is a good one.

 

Id love to try this one but Boulevard does not distribute in upstate NY. I can get it when I go back to the midwest to visit family. I try to load up on them when Im in range of the brewery because I know they make solid beers.