La Trappe Blond (Koningshoeven / Dominus)
Hazy, peachy-gold in hue with a suggestion of bronze; the liquid doesnt have much color depth. Modest animation raced towards the sticky white head. At the apex the foam was two-fingers in height. Head retention was very good as a half finger cap lasted for almost the entire consumption. There was tons of subsequent webby lacing awesome! This really ends the appearance on a high note. It is eye-candy, even though the liquid is boring to look at. The nose is like a lightly spiced Granny Smith apple. There are hints of cork. Nondescript maltiness. Silent hops. The finish is yeasty and a bit doughy. I wish I could blame the lack of nose on something like temperature or style of glass but both are proper. The bouquet is not inviting because it doesnt say nearly enough. The palate is surprisingly mild; it tastes like alcoholic Sprite with a twist of green apple and a yeasty finish. In other words there is some lemon-line in the mix, the malt is bland, slightly toasty but sweet it reminds me of a Zima or something. That wasnt a very nice thing to say, but that is what it tastes like! Besides that the palate isnt bad. I like it but it is too simple, too straightforward, and not bitter enough. Some hops would really be nice. The alcohol is hidden, the simplicity of the palate and the overall softness of it makes me think it would be tasty with fried fish or even an omelet with smoked cheese. Medium-light in body, moderate but lively carbonation, the mouthfeel is fitting. Yeoman-like effort. Sure, this beer is drinkable but equally forgettable. I know this beer will get overlooked in my mental Belgian Beer Rolodex, there are much better beers then this one. I probably wouldve passed on this beer but the 750ml was on sale in Parkville, MO for $3.00! Good deal. Worth a try.