The three Chimay ales are the probably the most popular Trappist beers in the world. Their big alcohol content bolsters their bold and balanced flavors, making each of them a beer worth remembering. If you've ever tasted one of the brews, you'll instantly recognize their fruity, dark and complex characteristics. If you haven't had the pleasure of indulging in the Grand Reserve, Cinq Cents or Premiere ales, you're in for a treat.
Instructions
1. Look for beers with high alcohol content. While many lagers and ales weigh in between 4 to 5 percent alcohol by volume, all three Chimay brews are above 7 percent, with the strongest Blue or Grand Reserve variety boasting 9 percent.
2. Check out the beer's color. Both the red and blue varieties have a dark, turbid coloring. The white version, which is slightly drier and "hoppier" than the other two, is a bit lighter in color.
3. Make sure the hexagonal "Authentic Trappist Product" logo appears on the bottle. Chimay is one of only seven different kinds of beer produced by the Trappist monks, who have become world famous for their brewing skills.
4. Taste the beer for its balance. None of the Chimay ales are particularly bitter, but they all contain enough hops to prevent the maltiness from overpowering your palate.
5. Pay close attention to the beer's subtle flavors. Aside from the sweetness of malted grains and the bite of hops, the Chimay ales are traditionally known for their peppery, woody and wine-like flavors.
Tags: Chimay ales, alcohol content, Grand Reserve, three Chimay