Nice dark brown color, with medium beige head, almost porter in appearance. Whoa - what a complex aroma, some fig/raisin notes, I guess they used a tad of Special B malt...but its not dominant, in fact there is no one dominant aroma component. Other notes include sweet sherry and vinous flavors, a little whiskey, (not smoky, but maybe woody). Flavor is similar: vinous, dry sherry, rich round sweetness followed by a nicely dry finish. Warming in the mouth, not so much in the chest. Full rich flavor, with more fig and raisin and other fruit. Finish is clean and light, not too much alcohol - in fact it hides it all too well, making this deceptively drinkable and intoxicating. Near perfect but I'm bringing it down a tad just because its overall potency of flavor and richness detract a bit from its drinkability. Curious sidenote: the dry lingering alcohol burn reminded me of drinking vodka, and paired with the rich sweetness up front, made me crave a more savory vodka drink like a Bloody Mary. In fact, I'd be willing to bet these two drinks would pair well together.

Possibly my favorite belgian style ale. What really sets this one apart for me, is the relative lack of astringency in comparison with other belgian strongs (there is still some present though). Granted this is not a triple and should not be that prone, but this beer pours on the flavor all the way through. It has a wonderful mix of raisin and plum and is pleasantly sweet. There are even some woody/grape leafy notes and plenty of spice. Texture is smooth and no hint of a grainy feel. Body is full, which is always a plus, as I would hope one would like to taste their beer. For 9abv, it does not overpower you with alcohol (and I dont see any taste resembling bactine). Pours a deep black and has a yellow/off white head on it. Aroma is a light plum wine, with some malty notes and not as much yeasty smell as I expected. Not as much of a strong yeast presence as I would expect, but I dont see that as a bad thing. Flavor thins out a bit towards the finish, and there is a slight astringency that comes out after the sweet fruit notes in the middle that creates a tiny bit of inconsistency in the overall experience, maybe a touch too sweet. Tough to critique this one though. Rerate Probably a 2004 bottle. Corked 750mL. Upon removing the cork (which was very difficult), there was no pop, no nothing. This beer was dead flat. Now, I’m not saying this beer should be at its best, when drunk uncarbonated, but among the best beers I’ve tried, giving them time to sit out does not ruin the flavor, or body. In fact, I’m actually a fan of uncarbonated, or naturally carbonated (resulting in very low levels) beers. This however was revolting. Cheap, sweet, sugary candy. I will reserve judgement (for the most part) until I can get another bottle that is carbonated, and let it sit out and naturally free itself of carbonation. Will see how that tastes.
Draught at Publick House 3/23/06. Same frothy, well-retained head with lacing. Lightly hazy appearance. Dry, but not overly so, in the aroma and flavor with the dark fruit esters, spices, black pepper and clove. Sweetnes as it warms, with candi-sugar residue on the palate and light vanilla. A light amount of roast gives a little oomph. I think my score is about right.