Gouden Carolus Easter Ale
There are very few things that I love more than a glass of anything from Belgium’s Brouwerij Het Anker — proprietors of the Gouden Carolus brand. From their classic Tripel to their oh-so-cellerable Cuvée Van De Keizer Blauw, the company makes, hands down, some of my most favored products. So, needless to say, it was a no-brainer for me to pick up a bottle of their annual Easter Ale the moment I saw it.
Brewed exclusively with Belgian hops and a variety of malts and herbs, Easter Ale is a deep, flavorful Strong Dark Ale that weighs in at 9% ABV. I can see this beer going quite well with just about any meal, with dessert or after dinner as the evening wanes — or in my case, outside on a moderately warm afternoon with the grill going.
Appearance
Easter Ale pours a dark brown with a large, light brown that was quite resilient, leaving sticky lacing along the glass as it faded. A garnet edge shines brightly when illuminated.
Aroma
Dark fruits, spices, light alcohol, a subtle sweetness and candi sugars fill the nose with a layered, welcoming aroma.
Taste
This beer is truly a delight to enjoy. A moderate sweetness joins fig and raisin along with a handful of spices for a flavor profile that is deep and rich. The beer has a strong alcohol presence that is front-and-center, but surprisingly doesn’t overwhelm the palate or distract from the richness — this is how a big beer should be done. The mouthfeel is full and slightly slick as it progresses over the tongue to a warming finish with loads of dark fruit and a lingering sweetness.
Overall
I’m so happy that I came across this beer. It will go down as an instant classic for me, though won’t knock the Cuvée Van De Keizer Blauw out of the top spot in terms of my favorites from this brewery. It’s a rich, full flavored beer that I certainly hope to find again, and again. It’s also one that I believe will age nicely for a couple of years.
Rating:4.5/5