Unibroue Grande Reserve 17

Hello beer lovers and welcome to another edition of the NorCal Beer Blog's brew review.

Tonight’s featured beer is Unibroue Grande Reserve 17 – 2011 vintage.

Commercial description: “Inspired by the great Belgian brewing tradition of Trappist monks established over the centuries, Unibroue 17 was first brewed in 2007 to celebrate our brewery’s 17th anniversary. However, the overwhelming success of this specialty brew made it obvious that we could not let such a great ale slip into the anonymity of retirement. 

So in 2011, we proudly brought back this French Oak aged, bottle refermented dark ale, with the "Grande Réserve" appellation as a fitting endorsement of it’s exceptional quality for aging. Brewed only once a year, in limited quantities, and individually numbered "brasseur" bottles, this is truly a flavorful delight for the specialty beer enthusiast.”

As testimony to it’s remarkable flair profile which increases in complexity as it ages, the original batch bottled in 2007 was awarded an international platinum medal three years in a row, and the prestigious title of "World’s Best Dark Ale" when it was well past three years in the bottle!"

Let’s get started!

Appearance: Pours murky brown color with a large beige head and decent lacing.

Aroma: Dark fruits, caramel, clove, Belgian yeast, toffee, slight vanilla and oak.

Taste: Sweet and caramel malts, dark fruits, Belgian yeast with a slight vanilla and charred oak flavor lingering.

Overall: Smooth and delicious, Unibroue Grande Reserve 17 is an excellent Belgian Strong Dark ale.  I have a couple of this 10% ABV gem aging right now.

Cheers!

Mark Harvey

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