The Bornem label is brewed by Brouwerij Van Steenberge, most known for the Gulden Draak beers amongst a host of others.
Another of the Belgian Abbey Beers, with links to the Sint-Bernardus Abbey in Bornem, Van Steenberge has brewed these beers since 1971.
The Belgian Dubbel style is a great stepping stone into the darker style beers for those that may be a little apprehensive. It is more brown in colour than overly dark like a stout. Traditionally with an ABV around 6.5-8.0%, they’ll have in inviting malt and dried stone fruit sweetness up front, with the beer drying out as you progress.
The Bornem Dubbel fits that bill, with the flavour of caramel malt, raisins and a little red berry. The beer has a relatively high carbonation, so sits lightly on the pallet. Spicy Belgian yeast and some earthy hop bitterness balance out the sweetness.
It feels an uncomplicated beer, but in a good way. Very easy drinking, but with more than enough flavour to sip and savour.