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Westmalle Dubbel: The Gold Standard of Belgian Trappist Ales

Westmalle is an old brewery, the 7% ABV Dubbel is a proper Belgian classic beer, the brewing of which dates back to 1856 and was originally brewed by the Trappist monks at the Abbey in Westmalle, and the production is still supervised by the monks, and the monks don’t mess about either; they brew their beers with care, contemplation, and a hefty dose of divine patience.
I had the pleasure of reviewing the Westmalle Tripel a little while back, and while it was a very nice Belgian Ale, I was always under the impression that the Dubbel is a better beer!

The Packaging
So, the Westmalle Dubbel bottle and label might not shout for attention on the shelf, but they have got a quiet dignity to them. It got an almost classic and timeless shape to the brown bottle with the word “Trappist” embossed around the shoulder; I should be impressed by this simple marketing trick … but I am!

They have gone for a lovely diamond shaped label, in a deep burgundy with gold and cream text; a rich, restrained colour palette that mirrors the beer itself. The word “Westmalle” is emblazoned on the front on a stylist gothic script – can’t mistake it  
They have the Authentic Trappist Product on there too, so I know I am about to sample a pucker product and not some Aldi or Lidl clone.

The Beers Look
The beer pours a very dark ruby colour, I tipped the whole bottle in and I’m guessing a little yeast entered the glass (not that it bothers me, it’s all flavour!), so I have a soft haze to my glass. Just on this yeast and sediment stuff, it just adds depth, softens the finish, and gives a bit more body and spice; try pouring it all in next time you pour a beer!
The Beers Aroma
Lovely aroma to this one, it has that unmistakable Belgian yeast doing its thing; banana ester and spicy clove come through gently – nothing over the top, just enough to add depth to the beer; I did pick up a little fruit too; I’m looking forward to tasting this one.

The Beers Flavour
It's got that classic Belgian flavour thr9ugh and through. I personally think that Westmalle beers are the blueprint that other brewers try to emulate!

This Dubbel is rich and complex and full of Belgian heart. 

Straight away the mild sweet caramel flavour is right there as a solid backbone to the beer, and it’s smooth and very refined sweetness, the dark fruit is there too, raisins, plums, and dates, they give it the rich luxurious feel that makes this a standout beer.

There is a little herbal and peppery note too, just hints of flavour, just enough to keep the tastebuds happy, then a little chocolate note kicks in; then at the end, when you think it’s all done, there is a little mid hoppy bitterness, nothing too much, just a little kick to give it a clean finish.

Overall Impression
I like this Dubbel because it’s not overdone, little notes of and hints of for the most part. It’s the mouthfeel that makes this a moreish Belgian Ale, it’s very smooth and velvety with that dry finish that makes you want another sip. No harsh aftertaste, no cloying sugar; just that satisfying moment where you go, “Yep. That’s a proper beer.”

Rating
I really liked this and to my surprise, I preferred this to the Trippel, it’s got all the hallmarks of a great Belgian Dubbel. Westmalle knew what they wanted to do, and they do it very well. 10 out of 10
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