Warmth?

Beer of the night: The Bruery Trade Winds Tripel

So winter is finally upon us here in the frozen northland. As I type this, the temperature has fallen below 10 F. A decent North Wind has brought the windchill in the dreaded (-) category. On nights like tonight, I would normally opt for a thick, rich, oily and high in alcohol brew... something along the lines of Bell's Expo Stout, North Coast Old Stock Barleywine or a Belgian Strong Ale like Gouden Carolus Grand Cru.

Not tonight. I went for a Belgian-Style tripel. Tripels are characteristically light in color, with a big, complex yeasty and malty flavor profile often times with a good dose of hops. The alcohol is rather high in a Tripel... usually around 8%+, but if brewed right, you shouldn't be able to detect it. There are plenty of Tripels available... the most common ones are the Chouffe Dobblen IPA/Tripel, Westmalle Tripel and Vivtory Golden Monkey (a spiced version).

A well done Tripel will take the edge off and warm even the coldest of bones. The Bruery Trade Winds is brewed with a hint of Thai basil. Warming the body and at the same time, reminding me of sitting on my deck on a hot summer evening. A beer that is evocative is truly one to be savored.