Made by Belgian Trappist Monks who were clever enough to include a proper goblet in this gift pack, Chimay is a high-quality brew for discerning drinkers.
This Chimay Gift Set contains Chimay Premiere (Red) 33cl, Chimay Cinq Cents (White) 33cl, Grande Reserve (Blue) 33cl, and an original glass.
Chimay Premiere (Red) – 7.0% ABV
Chimay Premiere was the first ale to be sold by the Trappist monks in 1862, hence the name. The monks did not want to sell a beer that would compete directly with the lighter-style beers in the region and harm the local economy for which they worked to reinvigorate. These local beers were known as “household beer.” So, the first brand they brought to market was the Chimay Red in 750ml bottles. It became famous for its dark copper colour, rich creamy foam and nutritious quality.
The beer gives forth distinct apricot aromas and has a pleasantly light and silky mouthfeel which finishes with a touch of bitterness. At 7% alcohol, the more subtle esters of Chimay’s yeast strain emerge nicely which gives the perception of a variety of fruits. This yeast strain was isolated by reverend Father Theodore following his studies at brewing school in Leuven after WWII. It was an important achievement in brewing and set Chimay’s reputation for consistency, quality and innovation that remains today.
Chimay Cinq Cents (White) – 8.0% ABV
First brewed in 1966 by reverend Father Theodore and it was his final contribution to the Chimay line of beers. It was formerly known as “White Cap” and no other brew has been created since. Cinq Cents translates to 500, honouring the 500th anniversary of the Principality of Chimay whose support made the founding of the Scourmont Abbey possible in 1850. Cinq Cents has a typical golden colour, a slightly hazy appearance topped with a fine foam that releases a bouquet of fruity esters and floral-hop aromas. Mellow flavours of muscat, golden raisins and fresh bread are perfectly balanced by the distinct hoppy bitterness.
Grande Réserve (Blue) – 9.0% ABV
First launched in 1948 as a Christmas ale under the name “Blue Cap.” Its success and reputation as a strong ale of the highest quality led to its year-round production as Chimay Grande Réserve. Today it is the standard-bearer of the Chimay range and has become notorious for its amazing cellaring ability. A beer cellar on the grounds of the abbey secures a vast selection of Chimay Blue bottles whose ages span a multitude of decades.
The beer is remarkably dry for the style and the hint of sweetness is derived purely from the highest quality of malts. Flavours of dates, fig and pear are complemented by aromas of dark bread, with a touch of rose. As the beer ages, it maintains its elegance while taking on the flavours of sherry and tobacco.