Belgian-Style Tripel - CraftBeer.com
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Beer Styles

Belgian-Style Tripel

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.

Category: Belgian Styles

Food Pairings

  • Roasted Turkey
  • Triple Creme
  • Caramelized Banana Creme Brulee

Glassware & Serving Temperature

Tulip
40-45 °F

Commercial Examples

Commercial Examples

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

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