Beer Pick of the Week - Augustijn Ale

A fine example of a Belgian tripel that is drier and more tart than others of the same style, making it a nice companion to grilled chicken or summer salads. It pours a slightly hazy gold with a huge, billowy head that takes a while to settle down to a clingy, frothy mess of bubbles. The aroma is of spicy Belgian yeast, with white pepper and coriander notes, as well as a lemony effervescence. The spices are evident in the taste as well, with a Granny Smith apple tartness and a hint of earthy sweetness. The finish is dry, with a nice, orange rind astringency. It has a slightly prickly mouthfeel from the persistent carbonation, giving it a light body for such a big beer. Very refreshing and comparable to Duvel, which is a Belgian strong pale ale rather than a tripel.

Augustijn Ale, Brouwerij Van Steenberge, Ertvelde, Belgium. 8% ABV. Available as part of a variety six-pack of 11.2-oz bottles of brews from Van Steenberge at Sherlock’s Wine Merchants in Marietta and Decatur.