Jan 12, 2012

De Dolle Dulle Teve

Dulle Teve photo

I’m not entirely sure where I picked up this bottle of De Dolle Dulle Teve, but I haven’t had it too long despite it’s August 2010 bottling date. I do recall being rather hesitant to pull it off the shop’s shelf though. Spying an old bottle of any beer (even those that are apt to age well) is an interesting situation to find yourself in. On one hand, you have no idea how the bottle has been handled — even if it’s found in a reputable store that you frequent often. On the other hand, it’s a beer brewed by the makers of some of your favorite beers (Stille Nacht, Extra Export Stout, Bos Keun, etc).

Obviously, my fanboy geekdom over anything that De Dolle produces outweighed my apprehension over the bottle’s age. I haven’t met a beer from this small brewery that I haven’t absolutely loved. Dulle Teve (loosely translated to “Mad Bitch”) is going to be another in a line of brews that I will be sure to pick up whenever I run across it again. It’s a big Belgian tripel, weighing in at 10% ABV, that is well crafted and enjoyable as hell to drink.

Appearance

Perhaps I was a bit too excited when pouring this, but as you can see above it sits with a rather large, off-white head. The color of the beer is golden hued with a slight haze and inviting as a column of bubbles rises from the bottom of the glass.

Aroma

The nose is a little boozy with a spicy/peppery yeast, some light apple and straw. It’s got a subtle sweetness to it, as well.

Taste

Oh, this is a fine tripel. Estery yeast with a peppery tingle accompanies light fruits and a solid bit of booze that lingers warmly after each sip. There’s a decent sweetness to the beer, but not in the least bit cloying. It fades nicely to a light hop presence. The mouthfeel leans more toward the syrupy side due to carbonation loss over the last year or so.

Overall

I’m not entirely sure how this beer stands up when enjoyed fresh, but as it stands with a year under it’s belt, this is one hell of a tasty Belgian tripel. It’s well rounded, deep with flavor and one to be enjoyed slowly after a filling meal. I really do need to remember where I purchased this bottle — I have to buy more.

Rating:4.25/5

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