I’ve only had Huyghe Brewery’s Nocturnum on a few occasions — Delirium Tremens on the other hand, I’ve had countless times. While it’s not my favorite of the Delirium tandem, it is a great beer in it’s own right. This Belgian strong dark ale is complex series of aromas and flavors that really make their presence known as the beer warms. The active carbonation gives it a lighter mouthfeel than it actually has, making it a great after dinner beer to relax to.
Aroma
Immediately upon opening, the brew exudes a fruity aroma, with hints of pear and apple. There is also a bit of heat from the alcohol and peppery spice present.
Appearance
There’s nothing prettier than a properly poured dark Belgian. The Nocturnum is no different. It poured a deep brown with red hues. The carbonation activity in it leans more toward the bubblier end of the beer spectrum. The head was thick and foamy with an off white coloring.
Taste
If you don’t fall in love with this beer upon the first sip, you should stop drinking beer now. Seriously. Put the glass down and back away from the beer. The Nocturnum is wonderfully fruity, but not too sweet with a slight dry bitterness to the finish. The heat from the alcohol is warming, but not overpowering.
Overall
I could drink way too much of this one. While I enjoy the Delirium Tremens just a bit more, the two are completely different and distinctive beers. The Nocturum is almost the polar opposite of the Tremens. It’s darker, richer, but still retains some of the fruit and spice characteristics of it’s lighter counterpart. Rating: 4/5
