750 mL corked & caged. I was delighted to get hold of this as I was pretty sure that this would be a beer that I would never get the chance to try, but thanks go out to the generous trader that hooked me up.
One of my favorite brewers and one of my favorite style – hopefully, that will add up to success!
The pop on opening was not big, and I wonder if this has lost a little carbonation over the years. The pour also lacks much life. The body is a orange/amber hazed affair with very little head to speak of. The lace is also not really part of the equation.
Nose and tastes have some sweet, oxidized sherry notes alongside the Belgian yeast and candy. The body lacks much depth and the alcohol shines through at the end. There are some really eathy tones that come through as well – a touch of soil, which is always a sign of an older beer. A little plum as well. It has some Old Ale character which would be fine if it were and Old Ale but for this beer it seems a little off. Some over-ripe bananas too.
Although I generally don’t mind the oxidation, in this case it’s not doing it for me. I’m absolutely positive that this beer is past its best which is a huge shame. I wish that I could have got to the beer either fresh or at least a lot earlier than I did. If you’ve got ’em, drink ’em and QUICKLY!