Complex, sometimes mild spicy flavor characterizes this style. Yeast-driven complexity is common. Tripels are often on the higher end of the ABV spectrum, yet are approachable to many different palates. These beers are commonly bottle-conditioned and finish dry. The Belgian-style tripel is similar to Belgian-style golden strong ales, but are generally darker and have a more noticeable malt sweetness.
Belgian-Style Tripel
Category: Belgian Styles
Food Pairings
- Roasted Turkey
- Triple Creme
- Caramelized Banana Creme Brulee
Commercial Examples
- Allagash Tripel, Allagash Brewing Co.
- Tripel, Green Flash Brewing Co.
- PDA, Black Bottle Brewery
Appearance
Color
Pale to Pale Gold
Clarity
Clear
Carbonation (Visual)
Fast Rising Bubbles
Flavor/Aroma
Alcohol
Mild
Hop
Hop aroma and flavor are not perceived to low. Hop bitterness is medium to medium-high
Malt
Low sweetness from very pale malts is present
Esters
Fruit (Orange, Banana)
Phenols
Complex, sometimes mild spicy flavor. Clove-like phenolic flavor may be evident at very low levels
Fermentation By-Products
Traditional tripels are bottle-conditioned and may exhibit slight yeast haze, but the yeast should not be intentionally roused
Sensations
Body
Soft to Mouth-Coating
Carbonation
High
Finish Length
Short to Medium
Attenuation
High
Ingredients
Hops
Tettnang, Czech Saaz
Malt
Belgian Pilsner
Water
Soft Water
Yeast
Ale
