Brouwerij Kerkom produces two "Kerst" (Christmas) beers. The Winterkoninkske is the first of their winter seasonals.It pours a dark mahogany brown, topped by a full tan head. The nose is full and rich, with figs, plums, raisins, clove and a little chocolate in the roasted malt.
The flavour is not quite as sweet as the nose, but still very rich. Roasted bread malts, plums, red grapes, raisins and a little caramel. As is the style of the brewery, hops are generously employed resulting in a good level of bitterness and peppery spice breaking through the sweetness. It finishes with a warming, earthy-spice aftertaste.
Beer Fact: Seven different types of malt are used in this beer, including rolled oats, for an extra bit of creaminess. The name of the beer translates to 'Winter King'. The second of Kerkom's Kerstbier's is the Winterkoninkske Grand Cru - a 13% monster!