Corsendonk Christmas Ale

In short: A kick-ass spicy belgian dark ale with just enough of everything.
How: Bottle 250ml. Consumed fresh a few months after receiving it through private importation
The look: Cloudy dark ruby body topped by a long-lasting small tan head
In long: Nose of a creamy fruity nutty dessert. Superb full lively body. Taste has some almonds in toffee, grounded black pepper, dates. Just the right amount of peppery spices. Did I notice coriander hiding in there. Also citrus fruits and oranges which remain secondary flavour elements but they nonetheless increase drinkability. Sweetness level is moderate. Hops presence is limited being hidden by the spicy nature of the beer but they do their job. Finish is mildly spicy with a mild leafy bitterness. I had it immediately after a De Ryck Arend Dubbel and surprisingly I found both to be somewhat similar although the Corsendonk is far superior. Merry Corsendonk Christmas and a happy new beer.

330 mL bottle from Hillcrest Whole Foods in San Diego ($3.99). Pours a dark plum color (almost brown) with gigantic tan head which gradually dissipates. Aroma of honey/syrup, yeast, dark fruit, along with hint of holiday spice. Flavor of caramel, wood, dark fruit, light spice, and a bit of smooth chocolate (especially toward the finish). Only moderately sweet which is a good thing. I like the lively carbonation in this one. That along with the undetectable alcohol makes this a pleasure to drink.

25 cl bottle poured to glass. Deep clear ruby colour. Medium size tan head. Spicy.

Bottle and on Tap. Was happy to find the last bottle at the nearby craft beer store, and find it on tap at one of my favorite beer bars, but on to the rating. Flavor is outstanding, aroma is ok but overall a great beer.

Bottle (750ml) shared with HogTownHarry, garthicus & biegaman -- courtesy of HogTownHarry. Pours a cloudy reddish-brown with tons of chunky floaties and an average size creamy tan head. Aroma’s yeasty along with lots of dark fruit, spices, some sweetness and caramel malt. Flavour’s malty and biscuity along with light dry spices and dark fruit. Medium bodied. Very good.

red amber coloured body with a sparkling off white head a malty fruity aroma a malty fruity sweet taste with a alcholic bitter finish

Magnum from the rip and run. i didn’t get any of the smokiness they speak of but yes it was predominantly malty bt it came and went in slow waves.. 8.5% sure accumulated in the Duders noodle. A lovcely muddled brown with steady head in the tulip. Nose is infused with candi sugar. body is medium and not too longlasting. This must be magic on draft.

Slight aromas of candied blackberries, tastes almost like fruitcake (that tastes good) ginger and roasted citrus.