I tried the Trappistes Rochefort 6 a couple of months ago and found it to be quite tasty, however everyone I talked to suggested that I try the Trappistes Rochefort 8. Well, I picked up a bottle and today is the day to take it for a ride.
The website, abbaye-rochefort.be, is written in French and Dutch, so I have no idea what it says.
Let’s just go ahead, give it a pour and see what this beer is all about for ourselves shall we?
This beer stands in at 9.2% ABV and comes in an 11.2 oz. bottle.
The brew poured a very hazy, deep burgundy to brown color. An enormous tan head was formed from a very easy pour. It was both soapy and rocky with tons of “snack, crackle & pop.” The retention time was pretty good and the lacing was average. The cap settled to a fine film, however the foam was easily regenerated with a quick, aggressive swirl.
The fragrance was a well balanced profile of dark fruits. Figs, dried raisins and plums. Faint alcohol notes were found and it also showed a wonderful nose of yeast, sour dough and fresh biscuits. The aroma was balanced very well. It’s not overly complicated nor did it present a ton of spice, however it was still a very pleasant and aromatic bouquet.
The taste let more of the dark fruit shine. Again, raisins, figs, plums and maybe even some cherries. Doughy biscuits with a slight syrupy taste. Mild touches of sweet chocolate and licorice. The alcohol was tasted somewhat, but it remained “low-key” and never became distracting. The taste was way more complex than the smell, yet it remained super well balanced. This was a very tasty and outstanding flavor.
The mouthfeel was medium, chewy, smooth and dry. A prevalent alcohol warmth hung on after the swallow, although the palate adjusted to it with ease. More than enough flavor was left behind after the sip. Very nice.
Overall, I thought this was an outstanding beer. It had a very good aroma, outstanding flavor and a worthwhile mouthfeel. Not to mention that it’s relatively easy to drink considering the higher ABV. It was also a very enjoyable drink that complimented the late evening session perfectly. I would highly recommend you give it a try if you have not done so. I will be sure to seek this out in the future. I have a 10 set back that I can’t wait to crack open and compare to this one.
Of the three Rocheforts, which do you guys prefer? The 6, 8 or 10?
Thanks for reading and commenting folks. It’s greatly appreciated. Until next time.
Cheers.
Score: 4.5 out of 5
Grade: A
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Clueless Brewer
October 14, 2011 at 6:22 pm
While all are delicious, I have to go with the 10. Hands down the best Belgian Quadrupel I've ever had and my #1 beer overall. Yes, I've had the Westvleteren 12. Cheers, mate!
Clueless Brewer
October 14, 2011 at 6:22 pm
While all are delicious, I have to go with the 10. Hands down the best Belgian Quadrupel I've ever had and my #1 beer overall. Yes, I've had the Westvleteren 12. Cheers, mate!
Scott Shrewsberry
October 15, 2011 at 12:30 am
Clueless Brewer,
Thanks for reading and commenting. I really appreciate it. I'll tell ya, I thought this beer was really good. I have yet to have the 10, but I'm sure it's great. The only minor complaint that I have heard regarding the 10 is that the alcohol is a bit more forward and can become distracting. I don't know, I guess I'm just going to have to find out for myself. Also, I've never had the Westvleteren 12, so I would hate to even try to compare it to that!!! Haha. Thanks again. Check back from time to time. I try to post daily.
Cheers,
Scott.
Scott Shrewsberry
October 15, 2011 at 12:30 am
Clueless Brewer,
Thanks for reading and commenting. I really appreciate it. I'll tell ya, I thought this beer was really good. I have yet to have the 10, but I'm sure it's great. The only minor complaint that I have heard regarding the 10 is that the alcohol is a bit more forward and can become distracting. I don't know, I guess I'm just going to have to find out for myself. Also, I've never had the Westvleteren 12, so I would hate to even try to compare it to that!!! Haha. Thanks again. Check back from time to time. I try to post daily.
Cheers,
Scott.
Brett Domue
October 16, 2011 at 11:46 am
Great Review! I think you'll love the 10 as well, and the Westys.
Brett Domue
October 16, 2011 at 11:46 am
Great Review! I think you'll love the 10 as well, and the Westys.
Scott Shrewsberry
October 16, 2011 at 3:27 pm
Brett,
Thanks for the compliment on the review…. and yeah, I can't wait to get the 10 in the glass!!!!
Cheers,
Scott
Scott Shrewsberry
October 16, 2011 at 3:27 pm
Brett,
Thanks for the compliment on the review…. and yeah, I can't wait to get the 10 in the glass!!!!
Cheers,
Scott