La Trappe – Blond
Blond La Trappe Belgian Blond ABV 6,5% 06-04-2026 3.5 / 5 Untappd: 3.67 (as of 06-04-2026) “Refreshing traditional blond beer, with a specific creamy feel” Tasting Notes Appearance La Trappe Blond pours a clear golden color with a bright, lively appearance. The white head forms well and holds nicely, leaving light lacing on the glass. Aroma The aroma is fresh and inviting, with light fruity esters and subtle notes of malt. There’s a gentle hint of spice and a touch of sweetness, typical for a Trappist-style blond. Mouthfeel The mouthfeel is medium-bodied with a smooth and slightly creamy texture. Carbonation is well-balanced, giving it a refreshing lift without feeling too sharp. Flavor Clean and well-balanced. Mild malt sweetness, and soft fruit notes, such as apple and light citrus. A gentle bitterness adds structure, and breaks the sweetness. Finish The finish is smooth and slightly dry, with a light bitterness that lingers briefly. It leaves a clean and refreshing aftertaste, perfect for a warm summer day. Overall Impression La Trappe Blond is a well-crafted and approachable Trappist beer that focuses on balance and drinkability. It may not be overly complex, but it delivers a refined and enjoyable experience. My Verdict A smooth and reliable blond ale that’s easy to enjoy and well-suited for many occasions. A great introduction to Trappist beers. In The Glass
La Trappe
La Trappe Brewery Netherlands Founded: 1884 Abbey Brewery Visit Brewery Website La Trappe Brewery is one of the few authentic Trappist breweries in the Netherlands, operated within Koningshoeven Abbey. Rooted in monastic tradition, La Trappe combines centuries-old brewing practices with a modern approach to craft beer, resulting in a wide range of balanced and expressive styles. Their beers, from classic Dubbel and Tripel to more experimental releases, are known for their depth, smoothness, and refined character. With a strong focus on quality and authenticity, La Trappe continues to represent the Trappist values of craftsmanship, tradition, and dedication in every brew. BEER REVIEWS Beer, Belgian Blond La Trappe – Blond April 6, 2026
Vakwerk – Brewery
Vakwerk Brewery Netherlands Founded: 2021 Modern Farm Brewery Visit Brewery Website Vakwerk Brouwerij is a Dutch craft brewery focused on quality, creativity, and attention to detail. The name “Vakwerk,” meaning craftsmanship, reflects their approach to brewing — combining traditional methods with modern influences to create well-balanced and expressive beers. Their range often highlights clean flavors, thoughtful ingredient use, and a clear identity in each brew. Whether exploring classic styles or experimenting with new ideas, Vakwerk Brouwerij emphasizes precision and consistency, resulting in beers that are both approachable and distinctive. BEER REVIEWS Beer, Imperial Stout Vakwerk – Sjtegelke April 4, 2026
Vakwerk – Sjtegelke
Sjtegelke Vakwerk Tripel ABV 9,5% 04-04-2026 4.0 / 5 Untappd: 3.67 (as of 04-04-2026) “One of the best small brewery tripels available! Refreshing, fruity, and strong” Tasting Notes Appearance Abeautiful gold blond color, with a nice thick layer of foam after the pour. The foam settles quickly. Aroma Lot’s of fruit, but als grain, malts, and a soft hop character. It doesn’t smell that strong Mouthfeel A nice medium thick mouthfeel for a tripel is always a plus. Not too much carbonization, which makes it easy to drink. Flavor The malt comes in first, but is quickly replaced with fruity tones, and a very slight bitter. Finish The finish is soft, and slightly bitter. The bitterness quickly makes place for the fruity taste. Overall Impression Amazing well balanced beer, which is on of my favorites, especially from small breweries. My Verdict An easy-drinking and refreshing beer that does exactly what it should. Not overly complex, but very enjoyable for casual moments. In The Glass
Elixer – Grutte Pier
Elixer Grutte Pier Imperial Stout ABV 11,5% 30-03-2026 4.5 / 5 Untappd: 3.63 (as of 30-03-2026) “A remarkable infused imperial stout, with a twist” Tasting Notes Appearance Grutte Pier Elixer pours a deep amber to copper color with a slightly hazy body. The foam has a brownish glow, which is very inviting. Aroma The aroma is rich and inviting, with noticeable malt sweetness up front. There are hints of caramel, dried fruit, and a subtle herbal touch. Mouthfeel The mouthfeel is medium to full-bodied, with a smooth and slightly warming character. Carbonation is moderate, giving it enough lift without taking away from its richness. Flavor Elixer leans toward the malt-forward side. Caramel and toffee notes dominate, followed by darker fruit tones like raisin or fig. The berenburg liquor is very present. Finish The finish is warming and slightly sweet, with lingering malt notes and a mild bitterness that fades slowly. It leaves a pleasant aftertaste that invites another sip. Overall Impression Grutte Pier Elixer is a bold and satisfying beer that delivers on depth and character. It’s not overly complex, but it strikes a nice balance between sweetness and bitterness, making it enjoyable without becoming too heavy. My Verdict A solid and flavorful beer with a strong malt presence and good drinkability. Definitely one I’d come back to, especially when looking for something a bit richer, to sip on a cold evening. In The Glass
Grutte Pier Brewery
Grutte Pier Netherlands Founded: 2014 Modern Brewery Visit Brewery Website Grutte Pier Brewery is a Dutch craft brewery known for its bold and characterful beers inspired by local heritage. Named after the legendary Frisian folk hero Grutte Pier, the brewery combines traditional influences with modern brewing techniques. Their beers often showcase rich malt profiles, balanced flavors, and a distinctive identity, reflecting both craftsmanship and a strong regional story. BEER REVIEWS Beer, Stout Elixer – Grutte Pier April 3, 2026
Chimay – Brewery
CHIMAY BREWERY Belgium Founded: 1850 Abbey Brewery Visit Brewery Website Chimay Brewery is one of Belgium’s most renowned Trappist breweries, operated within the Scourmont Abbey. With a history rooted in monastic tradition, Chimay is known for producing authentic Trappist beers that emphasize balance, complexity, and craftsmanship. Their beers, including the well-known Cinq Cents, are distinguished by their fruity esters, subtle spice, and refined character, reflecting both heritage and precision. BEER REVIEWS Tripel Chimay – Cinq Cents February 26, 2026
Hertog Jan – Brewery
HERTOG JAN BREWERY The Netherlands Founded: 1915 1910’s Brewery Visit Brewery Website Hertog Jan Brewery is one of the Netherlands’ most respected breweries, known for its dedication to traditional brewing techniques and rich, full-bodied beers. Founded in the village of Arcen, Hertog Jan combines craftsmanship with a focus on quality ingredients and careful maturation. Their beers, especially the renowned Grand Prestige, are celebrated for their depth, complexity, and excellent aging potential. BEER REVIEWS Dark Barley Wine Hertog Jan – Grand Prestige(2022) February 25, 2026
Affligem – Brewery
AFFLIGEM BREWERY Belgium Founded: 1074 Abbey Brewery Visit Brewery Website The Affligem Brewery is one of Belgium’s most historic brewing traditions, with roots dating back to the 11th century. Known for its classic abbey beers, Affligem combines centuries-old craftsmanship with a refined, balanced flavor profile. Their beers, especially the iconic Tripel, are recognized for their smooth drinkability, fruity esters, and subtle spice character. BEER REVIEWS Editor's Pick🔥, Tripel Affligem – Tripel February 18, 2026
Chimay – Cinq Cents
Chimay Cinq Cents Chimay Tripel ABV 8% 20-02-2026 4.25 / 5 Untappd: 3.77 (as of 19-02-2026) “Bright, fruity and elegantly spiced — a refined Belgian tripel with classic character.” Tasting Notes Appearance Clear to slightly hazy golden blonde with a thick white head and excellent retention. Aroma Ripe pear, light banana, clove spice and soft floral notes. Subtle honey sweetness. Mouthfeel Medium body with lively carbonation. Crisp yet slightly creamy texture. Flavor Balanced malt sweetness upfront. Fruity esters dominate with clove and gentle pepper spice. Finish Dry and clean with lingering spice and mild bitterness. Overall Impression A classic Belgian tripel that feels elegant and structured without feeling heavy. My Verdict Chimay Cinq Cents shows why Belgian tripels are so respected. It balances fruit, spice and alcohol warmth effortlessly. The carbonation keeps it lively while the yeast character adds depth. I’d gladly revisit this one when I want a textbook example of the style. In The Glass
