Wifey and I took a cruise few months ago and I really enjoyed both the grimbergen double ambree and blonde. Doesn't look like I am going to be able to get them locally here in South Lake Tahoe/Reno Nevada area. Any suggestions on what would be most similar at Total Wine?
I don't see Grimbergen in my area any more. Stick to Belgian imports... although you won't find a ton of options. For the "blonde," Leffe is the easiest and most obvious substitute, but you might not like it as much. Be on the lookout for Affligem just in case (but I don't see that one here anymore either). The "Ambree" is a Belgian "amber" beer, but people in the US don't understand how to recognize this beer type... so an equivalent is tough and relatable beers are spread out over a few different style categories on BeerAdvocate. Grimbergen also calls this beer a "dubbel." You might have a relatively easy time finding imported Belgian dubbels, but they might be stronger and darker than the Grimbergen. In that category, check out St Bernardus Pater 6. Leffe Brune (brown) is a beer to try if you see it. Ditto for Ommegang Rare Vos.
Leffe brown ale (brune) is easily my top recommendation as far as relatively easy to find in the US Belgian imports. @JackHorzempa digs it a lot too I reckon. Personally I never found Grimbergen that good, but Leffe and Affligem have something going for them.
