Normally I prefer brunettes but tonight I’m making an exception for a delectable Belgian blonde. This blonde comes from a monastery in Belgium called Maredsous. She’s a true abbey ale, with 6% alcohol by volume.
The Maredsous Blonde pours up with a thick, foamy head, proudly displaying a few pockmarks from the bigger bubbles popping. She leaves a heavy lacing on the glass as I drink her down. The head releases a sweet, grassy bouquet with a hint of sharp cheddar. She also creates a great sensory experience as the foam carries the ale across the tongue.
The ale is golden in color with a faint murkiness. As I drink her in, the distinctive flavor of the Belgian yeast steps out at me. But it’s well balanced with the malting and bitterness of the hops. The malt leaves a slightly waxy mouthfeel. The mild European hops linger on the palette. Maredsous reminds me of a Belgian wit I cut my teeth on but without the spiciness. This allows the four flavors of a basic beer to shine in this blonde.
And shine they do! The Maredsous Blonde is one of the most enjoyable beers I have drunk in quite a while. As she warms, she is smoother than ever. Now I’m done with her—all that’s left is the traces of her white head lacing the glass.
The Progressive Zone 