The tripel style, with its intricate blend of flavors and aromas, continues to evolve and surprise. While some breweries choose to stick to time-tested recipes, others are not afraid to experiment. Regardless of the approach, the tripel remains a testament to the art of brewing. Whether you're sipping a classic Belgian or a modern Dutch reinterpretation, there's a tripel for every palate. Our favourites are chosen by us, if you know better, let us know!
Karmeliet Tripel is a golden beauty. Brewed from three types of grain (wheat, oats, and barley), it provides a complex taste profile. The aroma introduces notes of vanilla mixed with citrus. On the palate, it's slightly creamy with a hint of banana and a fine balance of spiciness and bitterness. The finish is robust, making it one of Belgium's classic and most refined tripels.
Zatte is the oldest tripel beer from 't IJ, with a deep golden hue and a welcoming fruity apple aroma mixed with a scent of almond. It offers a rich malty character, combined with a mild dryness from its hops. The taste reveals earthy yeast tones, some sweetness, and a slight hint of bitterness, which lends a refreshing aftertaste. It's a full-bodied, slightly sweet beer that beautifully represents the Dutch brewing tradition.
One of the few recognized Trappist breweries outside Belgium, La Trappe Tripel boasts a bright amber color with a dense, white head. Its aroma is a blend of sweet fruitiness and mild bitterness. With caramel notes on the palate, it has a full-bodied and rich mouthfeel, interspersed with fruity esters and a slight peppery background. Brewed under the watchful eyes of Trappist monks, it's a genuine classic.
Breaking the traditional mold, Thai Thai is a tripel with an exotic twist. Brewed with four different yeasts, Thai herbs, and aged with chili peppers, this beer is a whirlwind of flavors. The aroma is aromatic and spicy, reminding one of a Thai curry. On tasting, it's layered with galangal, coriander, orange peel, and peppercorn, making it spicy, citrusy, and undeniably unique. It’s a bold reinterpretation of the tripel style.
Brewed on the picturesque island of Texel, this tripel is a salute to purity. Using only natural dune water from the island and brewed in an unhurried manner, Texels Tripel has a cloudy golden appearance. It offers a malty aroma with hints of ripe fruit. The taste, rich and full-bodied, bears a pleasant sweetness followed by a slight bitterness, characteristic of the Kent hop variety used. It's a beer that embodies the tranquility of its homeland.
