Trappist Single
BJCP 26a
Overall Impression
A pale, bitter, highly attenuated and well carbonated Trappist ale, showing a fruity-spicy Trappist yeast character, a spicy-floral hop profile, and a soft, supportive grainy-sweet malt palate.
Comments
Often not labeled or available outside the monastery, or infrequently brewed. Might also be called monk’s beer or Brother’s beer. Highly attenuated, generally 85% or higher.
History
While Trappist breweries have a tradition of brewing a lower-strength beer as a monk’s daily ration, the bitter, pale beer this style describes is a relatively modern invention reflecting current tastes. Westvleteren first brewed theirs in 1999, but replaced older lower-gravity products.
Ingredients
Pilsner malt, Belgian Trappist yeast, Saazer-type hops.
Commercial Examples
Achel 5° Blond, St. Bernardus Extra 4, Westmalle Extra, Westvleteren Blond
