The big bro of Lil Hoppy, Big As Tripel is a high octane Belgian style Abbey Tripel. This is a style that originated in Belgium sometime around the World Wars, most likely to compete with the growing popularity of the light Pilsner style that was beginning its domination of the world beer market (which still lasts to this day). The Trappist brewery Westmalle has set the standard for the style since they named their strong pale ale Tripel in the 1950s. Like its less formidable sibling, this one was brewed with all certified organic malts, and then hopped more aggressively than the traditional style with American varieties to help balance the fruity esters produced from the yeast. The aroma is full of bubble gum and tropical esters, with hints of booze. The flavors follow suit with lots of tropical fruit up front, some bready malt and herbal hops, and then a lingering spiciness derived from the combination of alcohol and bitter hops. This one is definitely better after warming a bit once served, letting more of the malt and hop flavors break through the fruit overtones and alcohol.

Big As Tripel will be tapped Friday, 3/16/12 and will be available til it is gone.

Due to limited availability, Big As Tripel is not available in growlers.