Green Flash Trippel (sic)

Green Flash Trippel Ale, Green Flash Brewing Company, Fine Handcrafted Ales, San Diego, California. "New World Trippel", Alc. by Vol. 9.7%.

Green Flash Trippel, Green Flash Brewery, San Diego, California. 9.7% ABV.

I know two things about this brewery. They can do hops. They can do Belgian. And, both, very well. Is that three things? If so, never mind. But, let's open 'er up and go…

Appearance: Lightly hazed, bright golden hue, under a slim white head. Looks alright.

Aroma: sweet, citric, spicy. Candied orange slices. with a drop of ginger.

Taste: Smooth and supple. Easy-drinking, with alcohol hidden at first, until…no, not for long. It's peeking out already. Lean-bodied, light malt flavor, plenty of citrus fruit and minor spice in the taste. And then the booze rises up and stings the senses just  a trifle.

All in all this is missing more from malt, maybe more yeast? And maybe, just maybe, a notch or so less alcohol. 8.5 is great for a tripel, but nearly 10% is pushing it. Despite that, I'm liking it. Not a classic tripel  (or triple) by any means, but pretty tasty and enjoyable. The lighter body and the higher alcohol makes for a boozy affair.

Let's take a look at the gobbledygook: "Rich, pale malt flavors provide a solid base for zesty Styrian Golding and Czech Saaz hopping. Trappist ale yeast contributes the fruity, spicy profile of classic. monk-brewed, Belgian ales. Our triple is a luscious, fiery, golden brew and a contemporary rendition of traditional Belgian Trippel."

Not sure if I agree with that 100%. But, guess what? I just found out/realized that I've had and reviewed this one already, 5 years ago. Yup. Funny how time flies, and the mind goes, etc. Here are the notes I took then:


"Golden appearance, smallish white head.

Nice nose, fruit and spice...pleasing soft citrus...

Taste: bright and happy on the tongue, sweet, and well-balanced, creamy, mucho yeast, plump and yummy,...very satisfying...

Medium bodied,...soft and supple, but a bit too much so to really be up their with the best of the style.

Nice, though...I like it."

Pretty close.