The Data

Country   Belgium

Style   Trappist

Retail Price   $13.99, Bottle, 750ml

ABV   9.5%

In the Glass

Slightly hazy, deep golden color with a thick, creamy, white head.

The aromatics are intense and complex offering scents of tropical fruit, rich malt, mace, hints of earthy hops and dried flowers.

The palate echoes the nose delivering a malt and fruit-driven core with waves of banana, stone fruits, and coriander seed with bright citrus accents.

Full-bodied with a perfect balance of malt and fruit with flourishing hops notes, and bright acidity.

Cool Factor

There are very few Trappist beers in the world and they are all cool but we really love the great brews from Westmalle.

Value Grade

Selling at less than $15 for a 750ml bottle the Westmalle Triple represents a great value in our estimation as it is one of the world's greatest beers.

Analysis

Of the hundreds of Trappist Monasteries in the world only 14 (six in Belgium) currently brew beer commercially. Brouwerij der Trappisten van Westmalle was opened in 1836 in the Westmalle Abbey in Belgium. Westmalle crafts three beers — the Triple that we feature here, as well as a Double and a beer called Extra. Westmalle’s iconic Triple was first brewed in 1934 with it’s final adjustment that we see and taste today formulated in 1956. The moniker triple refers to the fact that the quantity of ingredients used are larger than usual and three-times that of the original brew. The result is a golden, rich ale that has earned admirers around the globe.

How to Enjoy

Serve chilled in a Trappist-style goblet. Pair it with rich, soft and hard cheeses, bold, fish preparations, curry, and fresh strawberries.