Sly Fox Incubus
Last Friday I reviewed the Sly Fox’s Saison Vos. That tasty little saison was a solid introduction to the brewery, but it wasn’t the only beer I purchased from the company at the time. I also picked up Ichor (a quadruple) and this Belgian-style tripel, Incubus. I figured starting with the saison and working my way toward the much larger flavored Ichor was the way to go, which ultimately brings us to the 10.3% ABV Incubus.
Now, I’ve had mixed experiences with American-crafted tripel style brews. For the most part, a majority of them miss the mark. Some are good. Fewer are stellar, matching the authenticity and refinement of many of Belgium’s premiere breweries. Sly Fox’s Incubus is a tasty brew with good flavors, but it, like many of it’s U.S. peers doesn’t quite stack up to my favorites from across the Atlantic.
Appearance
Incubus pours golden in color with a massive stack of tawny foam that showcased a solid resiliency.
Aroma
The nose is fairly straightforward with a blend of grain, light yeast, soft fruits, spices, white pepper, light caramel and a tingle of distant alcohol. If anything it’s a little heavy on the spice notes.
Taste
The one thing that I must say that this beer does not do that many of the American made ones fall victim to is the over-the-top sweetness. Incubus has a light malt sweetness, but it’s at an appropriate level as grain, fruits, peppery yeast and clove arrive with a wash of alcohol warmth. The beer is lightly carbonated with a medium body and semi-dry finish.
Overall
I enjoyed this bottle of Incubus. It’s a solid take on a style that many breweries just don’t get all that right. It’s got decent flavor with perhaps too much spice and a bit too much alcohol heat, but in the end, I was pleased to have tried it out.
Rating: 3.75/5
