If it hadn’t been for Bontus’ rating, I’d remained in profound belief that this beer had been shelved for the longest time. Well, it’s still very much around, but apart from my deepest cellar shelf, I hadn’t seen it around. Only problem, the shelf-sample had been purchased in 1985... Disparate yellowish head, over red-brown ale. Fusels & esters nose, a touch of vinegar on wood, nuts. Pretty severe Oud Bruin nose. Sweet-sour in good balance, madeirisation outspoken, bit of acetic acid, but only a hint; tannines, however abound. Vestiges of a rich Oud bruin flavour that was once quite complex. Very watery body, because of its age, and the acids’ thinning. When this bottle was young, I thought "Dobbelken" one of, if not outright the best from Strubbe. This one is aged a tad too much, and I’ll be on the lookout for a reratable sample. It’s still quite interesting, though.

Bottle 25cl. Poured a dark brown beer with a ruby shade and a small head. No special smell. Looks like beer + cola. Taste’s like beer + cola, aroma is sweet. A tiny bit spicy. Sticky sweet aftertaste. Not impressed.