McGuires Belgian Strong Ale

Aroma: 6 | Appearance: 7 | Mouthfeel: 8 | Flavor: 9 | Overall: 7

Perhaps not the *most* unlikely offering I would have expected to see from McGuire’s (I can’t see them doing a Gose anytime soon!), but still this is far-and-away one of their more unique beers, style-wise. And even more surprising than the fact they decided to brew this particular beer is the fact that it’s pretty good!

This was served in a slightly smaller glass (8-10oz?). While I prefer to get my fair share of any beer that I order, I guess it makes sense for this place, since it’s 6.8%ABV is quite a bit more than the rest of the McGuire’s line-up.

A bit lacking in life, as far as the appearance goes. That is to say, what little head that was raised up in the pour quickly subsided into 3-4 microscopically thin patches resting on the surface. The mouthfeel also seemed to suffer slightly from this apparently minimalist approach to the carbonation. The nose was a bit better, but still nothing truly awe-inspiring, IMO.

However, “where the rubber meets the road” (so to speak) is the flavor profile – and what a nice flavor this has. Immediately reminded me of a slightly heavier and slightly darker Tripel. I was especially impressed with the spicy kick in the middle and backend. Noticeable alcohol prescence, but in no way degrading the overall drinkability. Not so sure that I would want to drink this all night long, but surely a glass or two would not be unwelcome… ;)
/TB