Top 10 Belgian Tripels in North America
The top 10 Belgian Tripels are are often characterized by a complex, sometimes mild spicy character, but no clove-like phenolic flavor. Yeast-generated fruity banana esters are also common, but not necessary. These pale/light-colored ales may finish sweet, though any sweet finish should be light. The beer is characteristically medium bodied with a equalizing hop/malt balance. Traditional Belgian Tripels are often well attenuated and bottle conditioned beers aged for a long period may be very well attenuated. Brewing sugar may be used to lighten the perception of body. Its sweetness will come from very pale malts. There should not be character from any roasted or dark malts. Very low hop flavor is okay. Alcohol strength and flavor should be perceived as evident. Head retention is dense and mousse like. ABV: 7.10% – 10.10%. IBU: 25-35.
1. Third Man – Brasserie Saint James – Nevada
2. Tripel Dog Dare – Big Dog’s Brewing – Nevada
3. Monk With Us – Tradesman Brewing – South Carolina
4. Rapunzel – Corridor Brewery – Illinois
5. La Fin Du Monde – Unibroue – Canada
6. Farm’s Edge: Dinnsen’s Orchard – Fullsteam Brewery – North Carolina
7. Tripel Horse – River Horse Brewing – New Jersey
8. Captains Trips – Elm City Brewing – New Hampshire
9. Allagash Curieux – Allagash Brewing – Maine
10. Long Strange Tripel – Boulevard Brewing – Missouri