Special Tappings: De Dolle Brouwers

August 4, 2016 @ 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm

It’s about to get weird.

Actually, for all their idiosyncrasies of branding, De Dolle produces fairly approachable beers, with their own unique little twist. Operating out of their tiny brewhouse in Essen, they have, over the past twenty-odd years, very quietly carved out a reputation as one of the world’s great breweries. Once you taste these singular ales, we’re confident you’ll share our admiration.

Arabier – 8% abv

One of the brewery’s two flagship products, Arabier could be considered Duvel on steroids. Though it sits at just 8% abv, the beer, a dry-hopped golden strong ale, packs a wallop when it comes to flavor. It exhibits pineapple notes, passion fruit, wildflower, and a hint of hibiscus.

Boskeun – 10% abv

Brewed for the Easter season, this dark gold, murky strong ale is hopped with East Kent Golding hops and re-fermented with local honey. Sweet and full-bodied, it tastes of plum, apricot, toffee malt, and a hint of banana.

Dulle Teve – 10% abv

Translating as “Mad Bitch,” this beer is brewed in the tradition of a Belgian tripel, with suggestions of bier de champagne: biscuity, with flavors of marmalade, baking spice, and orange.

Oerbier – 9% abv

De Dolle’s other flagship beer is also their best. The simple description is “Belgian dark strong ale,” but it goes beyond. A rich, but surprisingly dry beer, it features massive fig, raisin, caramel, and a lingering, slight tartness that hints at red wine.