| Producer | Chimay |
| Country | Belgium |
| Style | Trappist Ale |
| Sku | U1002792 |
| Size | 750ml |
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Named Grande Réserve, it is principally distinguished by its character of a strong beer. This is a beer whose fragrance of fresh yeast with a light, flowery rosy touch is especially pleasant. Its flavor, noticed when tasting it, only accentuates the pleasant sensations perceived in the aroma , while revealing a light but pleasant touch of roasted malt. Top fermented and refermented in the bottle, Grande Reserve can be aged for upwards of fifteen years.
Originally brewed as a Christmas beer in 1948, this dark and flavorful brew has wide distribution and is thankfully relatively easy to find across the U.S. It's loaded with rich, caramel aromas and flavors, with supporting notes of baking spice, dried cherry and date, like a holiday fruit cake. Hints of buttered banana and caramelized sugar unfold on the palate, resulting in a flavor reminiscent of Bananas Foster. The mouthfeel is smooth and creamy, with superb balance and little warmth despite the beer's significant alcohol, making it sinfully easy to drink. Lingering sweet-spice and chocolate notes grace the long finish. It's a perfect selection to bring along to any holiday party and share with friends or family; pair it with a standing-rib roast or any braised meat dish. Top 25 Beers of 2016, #7. —L.B.
