Terrapin Monk’s Revenge
There really hasn’t been a beer from this Athens, GA brewery that I haven’t liked in one way or another. I’m a big fan of their Rye Squared and Coffee Oatmeal Imperial Stout — both of which are in their Monster Beer Tour series — so it was a no-brainer to pick up a bottle of their Belgian IPA.
Billed as a mix of “a classic Belgian Style Tripel and a new age American Double IPA,” Terrapin Brewing’s Monk’s Revenge is indeed a tasty blend of the two styles. I thoroughly enjoyed this vengeful friar and ultimately still prefer the Houblon Chouffe and Hopsinjoor, but this is a damned fine brew nonetheless.
Appearance
Monk’s Revenge pours a golden amber in color with a thin, wispy lacing on the surface.
Aroma
Candy sugars, peppery yeast, hops and a light banana fruitiness are all packed into a wonderfully inviting nose. The 9.6% ABV is in there as well, but not overly so.
Taste
This one starts off with a Belgian candy sweetness before fading first through light fruits and then onto a slightly hoppy finish with a warming alcohol presence. It’s got a good level of sweetness without becoming too much and the mouthfeel has a light carbonation that accompanies the relatively smooth drinking brew.
Overall
I had this one chilled while grilling the other day, but I think I would prefer it more so as a late evening sipper. As it warmed in the glass, it brought out more flavors and a bit more heat from the ABV — both of which would have worked quite well as a night cap.
Rating: 3.5/5