Rogue "Beard Beer" - USA (ABV 5.6%)

Belgian brewers quite often allow their fine ales to be fermented by wild yeast and this beer is similar. The difference with "Beard Beer"is how the "wild yeast" was obtained, in "Beard Beer" the yeast is taken from brewmaster John Maier’s beard. Yes, it does sound a little off putting but it is still beer.

Surprisingly enough the beer looks and tastes pretty much like a Belgian ale, just perhaps slightly hoppier. It is no Orval or Westvleteren but nevertheless, is eminently drinkable - if you can get past thinking about how the yeast was obtained.

Petrus Speciale- Belgian Pale Ale

This is a top fermented Belgian Pale Ale, it pours a dark copper amber with a small to medium head. I may have poured this one a little too cold (it should be at about 8C).

It has an interesting hint apple cider in the aroma with a hint of floral hop. Not a super flavoursome Belgian Ale and not in the same league as Orval. It is not a bad beer but it lacks the complexity and flavour I have come to expect from Belgian Pale Ales.

SCORE 3.5

Orval Trappist Ale - Belgium

Brewed with Pale Malt and some Caramel Malt, flavoured (or seasoned) with with Bavarian Hallertau,  Slovenian Styrian Golding and the Alsacian Strisselspalt and then allowed to re-ferment in the bottle, this is one fine beer.

It has a real complex flavour, at times citrus hop, then malt, then floral hop. A really tasty beer. The big creamy head is a result of the re-fermentation in the bottle (I should have taken more care whilst pouring).

Enticing colour, frothing creamy head, sweet aroma and then a wonderful complex flavour. I thoroughly recommend this beer.

SCORE 4.7

Petrus Aged Pale Ale - Belgium

Pours a golden yellow and smells like vinegar spilled in a barnyard.

I obviously do not have the palate for sour aged beer, I did not enjoy this at all.

It is not fair to score this beer as I really don't like this particular style.