Allagash Grand Cru
This is yet another Abbey style ale. I know that I keep reviewing Abbey ales and Belgian Tripels over and over. But, these are my favorite varieties, so you have to bear with me. Once I drink every single Belgian Tripel out there, maybe I’ll journey into some other porters and pilsners – we’ll see.
But, back to the beer – This is a delicious representation of an abbey style ale. It is fairly dark, but not overbearing – quite light enough to be amenable to the less adventurous drinker. The aroma is very spicy and fruity with hints of plum and cherry – very nice. There is a slight taste of the licorice that I’m not always into. But, it is nicely off-set with heavier tastes of dark fruit. The mouthfeel is heavy and effervescent through the mouth, and the aftertaste sticks with you long after the beer is gone. An excellent brew, and one of the best American representations of an abbey ale that I have tasted.
This was a delicious beer, resplendent with flavors of fruit and spice. I really cannot add much more than Mr. Hollifield has done. I will say this is a relatively easy beer to enjoy; it is a light, Belgian abbey that is truly a great drink in general. This is the second Allagash I have had and both were thoroughly enjoyed.