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Abbaye des Rocs Blanche des Honnelles #

★★★★☆
Jul 5th 2006 , ,

The concept of a double witbier piqued my curiosity, and from a brewer I have learned to adore, I really had no choice. The body is darker than any wit I’ve seen, a luminescent ripe apricot orange, shrouded by the usual des Rocs chunks. A pillowy meringue head sits atop initially revealing a surprising smoky aroma, that leads to a dusty, chalky scent of sweet cereal grains. Orange peel, coriander and nutmeg emerge as the classic witbier blend but these scents become delightfully dense and rich. Hints of chocolate and paper add to the complex aspect of this beer, rare in this style but oh so enjoyable. The first sip is smooth, drinkable, not as hefty as the nose might assume. Strong coriander and pepper flavors match the light, airy texture that retains a refreshing quality despite its thicker malt and ester profile, highlighted by banana and a sweet honey finish. An excellent witbier, that profits considerably from its rather corpulent palate, that allows a very appropriate gain in complexity.

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