The Triangle

Issue date: 2/20/09 Section: Arts & Entertainment

Media Credit: Karl Kuchs

I have to admit, this week's beer is not for the typical beer drinker. In combination of all the stress of midterms and tests and the beer geek inside of me screaming for something unique, I decided to choose a completely different kind of brew. This week, I'll be examining a beer that is considered to be in a category all on its own and is world renowned to beer drinkers. Although it probably can be categorized as a Belgian Pale Ale, I'd prefer to recognize it by its brewers rather than its ambiguous style. In the exciting world of beer, there is rich tradition and culture surrounding each and every brew. And with the vast amount of beers that exist, many attempt to be considered one of the best. However, the name Trappist is oftentimes recognized by beer drinkers as being a Holy Grail of beers.

Trappist beers are those that are brewed and developed by Trappist monks. As a part of the Catholic religion, today, these monks exist in small numbers and live throughout Europe. Incepted in the 1600s, the Trappist religion began in France and spread to countries like Belgium and the Netherlands. Like many of the other smaller religious orders of the time, the Trappist monks were peaceful and were only interested in practicing their religion without any interference. But due to their small size, Trappists lacked funds to conduct their religious doings and needed to find a way to make money fast. In an attempt to gain only enough capital to run their religion, the Trappist monks began brewing beer. Surprisingly, the beer turned out to be spectacular and was a success. After several wars and a few hundred years, only about 170 Trappist monasteries remain. Of these 170, seven of them brew beer. This week, we'll being looking at the Trappist beer labeled by its monastery location in Belgium, Orval.

Poured out, this beer is a clouded, honey color complimented with a large amount of head. Although the color was nice, I am more interested in the topping. The head is extremely chunky - thick and pillowy with an unevenness surface. Lace is randomly dispersed all over the glass and looks artistic. I have to confess - this is one of the most beautiful looking beers I've ever seen.

The nose is completely intoxicating. There is such an array of aromas shouting out at the same time that I became confused. Honey, yeast, and an essence of lemon are present. However, I am also able to sample a pungent smell that resembles hay or grass, which reminds me of a barnyard. Although I wouldn't say it is gross, it is definitely extremely different.

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