Additional notes 01/25/23

Bottled on 01/05/22 from Bine and Vine (I believe the old South Bay Drugs), San Diego, CA.

Almost 14 years on and the pop on opening is still modest, BUT in this case the carbonation is OK – and it should be noted that this is a year old bottle.

Great color here, a lovely, clear chestnut (that avoids a typical, murky Dubbel appearance). Delicious, deep raisins and figs as prior, with a great, yeasty, Belgian feel. Much more Strong Belgian than Dubbel here, with some great depth of flavor.

Scores would be (will be) much higher than the original experience here.

Original notes 5/23/2009

750 mL corked & caged.

Oh, Oh! Distinct lack of “pop” on opening! This IS Lost Abbey – am I gonna be disappointed re: carbonation!?!? Answer comes quickly, and it is “yes”.

The beer totally “dies” in the Terrapin 22 oz snifter. I was expecting the drab color in terms of the pour (that’s Dubbel’s for ya), but the body, head and lace are DEAD!

It’s a HUGE shame since the nose and taste of this brew are really quintessential. Plenty of raisins and figs, set against a slightly dry finish and fruity Belgian yeast. Esters also present, and in terms of the tastes we get a really nice interpretation of the style. Mouthfeel is

DREADFULLY disappointing though, and as I say, the beer “dies” on the palate.

If Lost Abbey could get a handle on the QC issues they wold be a leading brewery. For now, the jury is out.