Orval Trappist Ale, Belgium (11.2 oz bottle)

One of the most iconic Trappist beers, this pours a gorgeous golden-orange color, with a large, frothy off-white head that lingers. Bottled with brettanomyces, you can immediately pick up on the wonderfully complex, dry, funky earth and barnyard notes, with additional aromas of orange peel, green apple, gingered white tea, yeasty spice and freshly baked bread. The medium-bodied mouthfeel boasts bright, fizzy carbonation and refreshing acidity, making the palate seem light and approachable. It finishes dry and spicy, with flavors of citrus pith, lemongrass, white pepper and farm hay. It's delicious upon release, but additional time in the cellar will allow this to harmonize, mellow and mature into an even more complex and nuanced brew; try after 3 years from release (refer to product label). *No. 6 of the top 25 beers of 2015* (LB) (12/2015)

This Belgian Trappist ale is from the Abbey of Orval in the province of Luxembourg. Brettanomyces gives this dry sipper lovely complexity. Sensory notes from the brewery: "Sunset-orange color; a fruity and slightly acidic bouquet, firm body, profound hop bitterness, and long, dry finish." ABV: 6.9%, OG: 1.055, IBU: 32.