Belgian Strong Blond Tripel
Brewed by:De Halve Maan Brewery
Country:Belgium
Style:Tripel
Color:Golden
ABV:9.0%
Ratebeer.com rating:91
BeerAdvocate.com rating:89
Straffe Hendrik Tripel Ale(ABV 9%) from theDe Halve Maan Brewerypours deep gold with a dense white head; its spicy aroma includes notes of black pepper, coriander, and ginger, plus a hint of orange.
The use of Saaz and Styrian hops and a blend of six special varieties of malt ensures a particularly well-balanced and powerful taste in which a smooth, rich caramel character and a creamy mouthfeel are countered by a welcome bit of bitterness. In the finish are subtle hints of banana and the prominent presence of citrus. Ratebeer.com rating: 92 (out of 100) 11.2 oz capped bottle.
Food Pairings
Delicious with spicy seafood dishes, Mussels and Pomme Frites, and salty or rich charcuterie — also goes well with cheeses such as Camembert or Bruges Blomme. A nice complement to desserts based on pineapple or mango.
Brewery Information:
Located in Bruges, Belgium,Brouwerij De Halve Maan(“Half Moon Brewery”) was founded in 1856 by Leon (also known as Henri I) Maes, and has remained family owned and operated ever since; it is, in fact, one of the very last working family breweries in the Bruges city center.
In the early 1980s the brewery was struggling and Veronique, great-great granddaughter of Henri I, was approached by the mayor, who requested a special ale to commemorate the inauguration of the new statue of Saint Arnold, patron of beer brewers.
Since interest in traditional beer styles was on the rise, Veronique crafted a top fermented, high alcohol ale which became an instant hit, so much so the mayor would require it served at all official town hall receptions.
Today, under the guidance of a sixth generation of the Maes family, the Halve Maan Brewery exports award-winning ales worldwide and is one of the fastest growing breweries in Belgium.
