De Graal Tripel

Next up a beer from De Graal (Dutch for "the grail") a modern brewery that was founded in 2002 by brewmaster Wim Saeyens and is located in Brakel, in an area affectionately referred to as "the Flemish Ardennes"

De Graal Tripel pours a murky, hazy amber that is packed full of suspended yeast particles, topped by a thick pure white foamy head that slowly, slowly fades...almost lasting the duration, this is one great looking beer.

Pungent fruity aroma...lots of citrus (oranges and lemons) and more fruit with a definite banana waft, spices also make their presence known with ginger heat coming through and the orange notes of coriander before finishing with a strong malty backbone.

Initial taste is sweet and again citrus (zesty orange) but also a fruity, peach like smoothness is very evident before bitter/grassy hops cut through coupled with a spicy, clove edge - both providing the perfect balance, the finish is dry and warming with a lasting bitterness.

A great Tripel that may not be as full bodied as others in this style but non the less deserves a return visit.......and soon.