Trader Joes Vintage Ale 2010

From Trader Joe’s – Unique and limited edition, this Belgian style ale is crafted once a year as a special treat for those of you who appreciate flavorful, bottle-conditioned ales with character. This year’s vintage: a rich, dark and full-bodied ale with a fine and generous coffee-colored, beige foam. It’s ready to enjoy right away and you may also wish to cellar a few bottles. It will evolve interestingly well, developing more complex flavors as the years go by.

Trader Joe’s Vintage Ale 2010 brewed by Unibroue – 750 ml bottle poured into a goblet. 9% abv. Purchased at Trader Joe’s Monrovia, CA

Appearance: Pours a jet black with a large fluffy head that subsides to a tight bubbled tan cap.

Aroma: Ginger, clove, dark sugar and cola.

Taste: Dark candi sugar, cola, ginger, cinnamon and black cherry.

Mouthfeel: Very active, prickly carbonation. Medium bodied.

Overall: Tasty and predictable. This was similar to last years (which was tasty) and very similar to most Unibroue beers on the market. None the less, I look forward to tasting this each year, and at $4.99, it’s a safe investment for your cellar.