Review: Trader Joe’s 2006 Vintage Ale

Trader Joe’s 2006 Vintage Ale
(Brewed by UNIBROUE, Canada)
“Dark Ale on Lees”
9% alcohol by volume
Judged in Category 16E. Belgian Specialty Ale

Introduction

I picked this up yesterday at the grand opening of the Trader Joe’s in Walnut Creek. At the checkout stand, no fewer than three TJ employees commented on how good it was and how I’d be back for more.

The back of the bottle indicates it was brewed by UNIBROU of Canada in the Belgian Abbey style, which is sort of nebulous given that Belgian Abbeys are known for brewing everything from Saion-style beers to strong triples. Given its color and alcohol level, I figured it best to judge this one as a Belgian Specialty ale, which pretty much runs the gamut of Belgian ales.

I should note that this is my first BJCP-style tasting note, so your mileage may vary far more than normal. As I calibrate my tasting and judging abilites, expect my numbers to fall better into place. As for the review beloww, I’d ignore the numbers and focus instead on the tasting notes - they’ll be far more accurate than my scoring.

Aroma

Hints of licorice and ginger on the pour gave way to a clove aroma. Slight cardboardy/oxidized smell. A strong winy aroma indicated that this would no doubt also have a winy taste.

10/12

Appearance

Thick, creamy head with big bubbles retained reasonably well, but left very little “lace” on the glass. Color is a deep, almost opaque brown.

2/3

Mouthfeel

Medium body - not too watery, but certainly less than I expected given the color. A good amount of carbonation.

4/5

Flavor

Emphasis on the malt with just a hint of hops and a slight roastiness. Still, very well balanced. For being such a high alcohol beer, there was little warming effect and no alcohol bite, which I liked. Finished with a strong wininess and lingers on the palate with a warm spice. I think further aging may round out the winy taste a bit.

18/20

Overall

When I drink a strong ale, I’m usually looking for something far stronger in the way of spice and esthers, but this is a very good, easy drinking beer. That 9% ABV will sneak right up on you. I’ll probably go back to TJ’s to buy another bottle or two and cellar it for a year.

9/10

Total 43/50

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