About This Beer
Mescan Westport Special Reserve is the pinnacle of Mescan Brewery’s Belgian-inspired range, an 8.6% ABV strong ale brewed to be savoured and celebrated. Inspired by the great abbey and Trappist beers of Belgium, this release is designed to offer richness and complexity without overwhelming the drinker. Each sip reveals new layers of malt character, yeast-driven spice, and warming strength.
This beer is crafted in small batches using traditional Belgian methods, with secondary fermentation in the bottle adding natural carbonation and allowing the beer to evolve over time. It is an expression of patience and skill, rewarding both immediate enjoyment and cellaring for future tasting.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Amber-golden body with fine carbonation and a creamy, persistent white head.
Aroma: Notes of ripe banana, clove, honey, and subtle caramel malt.
Flavour: Rich malt sweetness balanced by dried fruit, light spice, herbal hops, and warming alcohol.
Mouthfeel: Smooth, full-bodied, with a lingering finish and refined effervescence.
About the Brewery
Mescan Brewery is nestled on the slopes of Croagh Patrick, overlooking Westport in Co. Mayo. Founded by two veterinary friends – Irishman Cillian Ó Móráin and Belgian Bart Adons – Mescan takes its name from St. Patrick’s personal brewer. The brewery has built its reputation on Belgian-style ales brewed with Irish passion, focusing on balance, authenticity, and natural ingredients.
While Mescan produces a range of beers from saisons to tripels, the Westport Special Reserve represents their crowning achievement. It is a true sipping beer, created for occasions where quality and character matter.
Food Pairings
This strong ale’s complexity makes it a versatile companion to food. Its malt sweetness and fruity esters pair beautifully with roasted meats such as duck, lamb, or pork belly. It also complements strong cheeses like mature Gouda, Comté, or blue cheeses, with the beer’s strength cutting through richness. For dessert, pair with fruit tarts, spiced cakes, or even dark chocolate for a truly indulgent experience.
Explore More
If you enjoy the Belgian-style richness of Westport Special Reserve, you may also wish to browse our red and brown ale collection for other malt-driven beers, or explore our Belgian Beer selection for more inspiration from the style that influenced Mescan. For more home-grown excellence, don’t miss the variety of Irish Craft Beer. Fans of sharing formats can also discover our Beer Kegs.
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