St. Bernardus Extra 4, Belgian Abbey Ale, "Bringing Heavenly Nectar Within Reach", brewed and bottled by Brouwerij St. Bernardus NV, Watout, Belgium. 4.8% Alc./Vol.
There's something special that stirs within me as I glean the store shelves and spy for the first time a new St. Bernardus label. A feeling of joy whirls up within me, and anticipation that something new and beautiful is waiting for me to experience. They already make a fantastic tripel, dubbel, quadrupel, wit, and Christmas ale. And now, at last, they unleash a single ale. Let's get to it.
Appearance: hazy, golden-hued, slim white head, leaving a little lace.
Aroma: Lemon leads the charge in the nose, with light spices, and Belgian yeast character. Noble hops appear, some floral, perfumey notes, and an altogether air of elegance.
Taste: A tangy, tidy hop bite hits the palate first, a citric blast, with considerable spice. It's a light body, but consummate drinkability. Exquisite refreshment. Crisp, cracker-y malt body holds it down. (Some wheat, I wonder?) This hoppy, fruity pale ale ends on dry note, the palate cleansed, ready to tackle the glass once more. Extra 4 is a wonderful beer for food, or just hanging back.
Is there brewery gobbledygook? I find this on the 4-pack carrier: "St. Bernardus Extra 4-Abbey Ale brewed in the classic "single " style of Belgium's best Abbey Ales. Store and serve this distinctive and delicious golden pale ale at 46-50 F in a goblet glass to best enjoy it's delicate bouquet."
I paid about $18.50 for a 4-pack. There's one more left, and I'll miss it when it's gone.
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