Westmalle Trappist Dubbel

Something about the colour of this label makes me happy.

It certainly evokes the colour of the beer itself pretty well: an attractive leathery brown. The nose has a little bit of port / sherry going on and for 7%, comes across as a little bit intimidating first up.

The taste is a bit less overwhelming thankfully, putting across fruity alcoholic notes for the main. Not a lot of chocolate for a dubbel, probably not a beginner's beer either, but big and complex if you like them that way. Would probably go well with roast meat or similar sorts of big heavy dishes. Good stuff. 7.5

Holgate Double Trouble

Just when you think you've tried all of Holgate's beers .. they pull you back in.

This one's a Dubbel by designation - admittedly a fair bit less complex than a lot of true Belgian efforts - but easy drinking, chewy and flavoursome. I get a lot of chocolate in this but melded with caramel / toffee and just a faint edge of rum. Add in a complex malty nose and a nice balanced, meshed character from a bit of time in the bottle and you've got a pleasant beer indeed.

I only noticed it was 8% deep into the bottle. Say what you like about it being an 'abbey ale', but I think it best to judge it on what it is than what it isn't. Great work again, grab a bottle and check it out even if you're not generally a Belgian beer freak.  8.0

Grottenbier Bruin

So, a petite bottle of oud bruin which I believe is put together by that king-of-the-witbiers, he of Hoegaarden fame, Pierre Celis.

Oh also it's been aged in a grotto which certainly contributes a whole new layer of funky flanders magic. The aroma in particular is nicely sour and, while it's not as prominent on the taste, there are some plumlike traces that combine with the confident brown notes (?) to form a nice companion to have a chat with.

It's not the sort of beer that shouts about what it's doing - instead it's quite reserved, a soft conversationalist. If you take the time to listen though you'll find all sorts of interest. 8.0

Dupont Moinette Brune

Had to do a bit of research on this one after drinking to find out what it actually was.

Brown, clearly - but of the Belgian persuasion. It's a Belgian Strong Dark Ale, or just a Dubbel depending on where you look. Either way it sits patiently in the glass for you to reach from your recliner next to the fireplace and grasp it from next to your book, cigar and monocle resting on the mahogany side table.

Taste brings nuts and dark fruits, kind of brandy-like flavours, replete with that alcoholic warmth and somewhat reminiscent of Christmas cake. All of which I found fascinating and remarkably drinkable over two outings so far.

I'm not yet a massive fan of heavy Belgians but more like this I'll take gladly. 8.0