The "top fermented abbey ale" pours a wonderful golden color with a lot of slightly off-white head. I'd say the initial pour presented me with about two inches of foamy beer protection. As expected with Belgian-styled Abbeys, it pretty much fits the stereotype. The nose is fruity with apples, pear, spices, and even some caramelized sugars. It smells absolutely delicious; however, it also seems bold.
(The beer looks a lot darker backed by the Penguin Classics. I knew I should have gone with the Oxfords.)
Initially on tasting, I actually do not get much flavor out of the beer. This is, to be quite honest, disappointing to me. However, as it warms up more of the flavors come out. Just as it smells, apples, pears, spice, and even some slight raisin. The consistency somewhat surprises me as well. As I swirl it around in my mouth, it feels more like a cream ale or a beer on nitro. However, considering the size of the head and the bubbles still floating up from the bottom of my glass, I assume it is the carbonation. The finish is also disappointing as it is just a rather strong yeasty aftertaste. No bitterness (I didn't expect there to be) or lingering fruity notes. This beer does not have the ABV listed on the label so I really do not have the slightest idea what it is. Notice I didn't list alcohol in regards to the smell or the flavor. On the other hand, I am no fool and I know that beers from Belgium are, more likely than not, deceiving when it comes to alcohol content. I'm sure it is pretty high up there with the rest of them.
Am I enjoying this beer right now? Absolutely. After working tonight, nothing could be more enjoyable than a product of Belgium. Would I buy it again? Possibly. Do I want to try the other beers coming out of St. Sebastiaan? Absolutely. The real question is: would I recommend this beer to others? My answer is yes. I have certain friends who say they hate Belgian-styled ales (this statement baffles me in its entirety), and they are the only ones I wouldn't recommend this to. It's not too expensive, so go grab yourself one and pop it open. With the flipper top, you could drink half today and half tomorrow. It is the best way to save beer (if there is any way at all once oxygen has hit it).
