by Brouwerij Emelisse/Slot-Oostende
It has been a while since we’ve had a beer from Emelisse, but let me assure you it has been worth the wait.
Dopplebocks are a style I really enjoy, and when a great brewer makes a supercharged version, it is something to get excited about.
As with many big malty beers, fresh is not best. Often the beer tastes a little too fresh and unbalanced, but time will soften things down and bring all the attributes together. We’ve been sitting on these since last year, and they are now tasting great.
This is a malt bomb, so lots of sweet caramel and burnt sugar in the aroma. Also some dried stonefruit and a hint of madeira.
Big sweetness up front with caramel, molasses, toffee, raisins and prunes. There is a soft hop bite lingering somewhere in the background, along with some gentle spice.
The age has taken care of the early sticky mouthfeel, and it is now a good deal lighter in the body than it was. It would suit aging for longer, but how strong is your willpower??