Ommegang Valar Morghulis
I’ve never watched an episode of HBO’s “Game of Thrones” — and I’m not particularly fond of this partnership with Brewery Ommegang — so I have no idea what Valar Morghulis refers to within the show. And, quite honestly, I don’t care. What I do care about, however, is the Belgian-style dubbel behind the glass and label artwork.
And it’s one of the best new brews from the company in a while.
Ommegang has simply nailed the style with this 8% ABV dubbel while still adding their own twist. The key, though, is that the company has also managed to maintain an overall traditional character within the murky brew. Rich malts, fruity notes, spices and a clean yeast presence drives the flavors of this exceptional beer.
Appearance
A pillowy stack of beige foam stands proudly atop the dark garnet colored brew.
Aroma
Strong yeast, pepper, distant spice notes, fig, raisin, caramel and a tease of alcohol come together wonderfully.
Taste
Ommegang Valar Morghulis is an excellent dubble — no if, ands or buts about it. It’s rich and full flavored with caramel, raisin, yeast, as well as hints of clove and other spices. It’s a big, warming beer with a medium body and fairly active level of carbonation that fades slowly through the lasting and slightly drying finish. A twinge of hop bitterness in the mix keeps you on your toes, as well.
Overall
It’s been a while since I’ve liked a recent release from Ommegang as much as I have enjoyed Valar Morghulis. The beer is spot on for the style, but not just a simple interpretation of it — there’s a intriguing and exciting aspect to the beer’s flavor that Ommegang has managed to inject within its dark depths. I had purchased a couple of more bottles since this initial review with the goal of cellaring a few, but, well, I drank them all.
Rating: 4.25/5
