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Buyer's Guide for Beer Lovers

Continental Ales

Exploring a Rich Foamscape of Ales

Belgian Style Strong Ale

Beers listed in this category will generally pack a considerable alcohol punch and should be approached much like one would a barleywine. Indeed, some of them could be considered Belgian-style barleywines, such as those from Brasserie Dubuisson. Expect a fruity Belgian yeast character and a degree of sweetness coupled with a viscous mouthfeel.

Interpreting the 100-point Scale

Consumers can translate the point score to the following quality bands:

Point Range Quality Band
96-100 points Platinum
90-95 points Gold
85-90 points Silver
80-84 points Bronze
Less than 80 Not Recommended
Legend
  • = Brewpub
  • ABV = Alcohol by volume
  • Date denotes the date on which the beer was tasted

94 Local 1, The Brooklyn Brewery (NY). 9% ABV (5/10)
Hazy golden amber color. Aromas of citrus custard, sautéed squash, banana nut bread and herbal, grassy hops follow through on a supple, satiny entry to a dryish medium-full body with excellent depth and balance. Finishes with a long, tangy dried fruit, honey butter and mossy hop fade. A delicious and complex food ale that screams for rustic and artisanal cheeses and charcuterie.

89 Brother Thelonious, North Coast Brewing Co. (CA). 9.4% ABV (5/10)
Bright roasted nut and melted chocolate aromas follow through on a supple entry to a dryish medium-full body with very good depth and a boozy, brandied note. Finishes in a chewy, toasted pumpernickel, burnt sugar and dried autumn fruit fade with a hint of oak and earthy hops.

89 Trois Pistoles, Unibroue (Canada). 9% ABV (5/10)
Dark brown color. Aromas of star anise, ginger cake and root beer follow through on a round entry to a dryish medium-to-full body with good depth and spicy, chewy malt, nectarine and mossy river stone-accented finish.

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