Paper-wrapped 750 mL, capped bottle in typical De Ranke presentation mode. This came from Hop City, Atlanta, GA, USA.
Popping the cap produces a touch of gunsmoke but the pour produces a pretty lively beer. Some really substantial, thick, bubbly head that lingers and leaves good lace. Body is a slightly murky, dark Dubbel like affair.
Nose is quite frankly not huge, but it does give a strong whiff of a hop base rather than a Belgian fruity/estery/yesty/candy note. I suppose this is in line with the De Ranke philosophy.
As is so often the case, the tastes largely reflect the nose with fruits, raisins and esters, whilst although present, taking a backseat to the hoppy edge that makes a De Ranke beer, a De Ranke beer! Finishes with a malty bitterness which is an unusual combo. There’s a touch of lingering metallic coinage too, but it’s not harsh and adds to the experience rather than detracting from it. As it warms the esters and yeasts come to the fore with greater alacrity and clarity.
Insanely drinkable, the alcohol is nowhere to be seen.
Definitely an edgy BDSA, and not the kind of thing that I usually go for since I feel the fruit, the esters, yeasts and malts should be upfront and strong in this style, BUT given it is a De Ranke I was expecting this so I feel less disappointed than I otherwise might have. Either way, tasty stuff and a difficult beer to put down.