by Brouwerij der Trappistenabdij de Achelse Kluis
The Achel Bruin 8 as a beer fits somewhere between a balanced fruity dubbel style, and the classic big dark Trappist ale.
The colour is a warm caramel brown, with a thick white head that refuses to disappear. The intriguing aroma is a mix of rich dark stone fruits, strong Belgian yeast phenolics and earthy hops.
It is in the flavour that this beer really excels; a complex mix of attributes perfectly balanced against each other to form a wonderful combination. Sweet, rich bready malts with a hint of chocolate, dark stone fruits like raisins and figs. The richness is offset by a good level of hop bitterness, and a slight roastiness.
As all good beers seem to do, despite the rich flavours, the beer still finishes out dry with a long pleasant aftertaste.
Brewery Fact: the Achel Trappist monastery produces 6 different beers, but only three of them are available outside of the brewery. The Achel Bruin 8, Blond 8 and Bruin Extra 9.5 can be enjoyed here. But to sample the Blond 5, Bruin 5 or the very special Blond Extra 9.5 you'll have to visit the Monastery Cafe!