The Legacy of Abbaye Notre-Dame de Saint-Rémy
The Abbaye Notre-Dame de Saint-Rémy, home to the Rochefort Trappist Brewery, has been a cornerstone of Belgian monastic brewing for centuries. First founded in 1230, the abbey has endured wars, political upheavals, and rebuilding efforts, yet its dedication to Trappist brewing traditions remains unchanged.
Monastic brewing at Rochefort began in 1595, with the monks crafting high-quality ales using natural ingredients and time-honoured techniques. Their commitment to small-batch, handcrafted beers ensures that every bottle produced meets the strict Trappist standards, with all proceeds supporting the monastery and charitable causes.
Rochefort’s core beers—the Rochefort 6, 8, and 10—are globally revered for their depth and richness. In 2020, the monks decided to revive a long-lost recipe, creating Triple Extra, a beer that mirrors traditional Belgian Tripels while maintaining Rochefort’s signature brewing style. This golden ale is a lively, fruit-forward alternative to their darker, maltier brews, marking an exciting addition to the Rochefort lineup.
Tasting Notes
- Appearance: Pours a radiant golden colour with subtle amber hues. A thick, frothy white head forms upon pouring, leaving a beautiful lacing as it settles.
- Aroma: Expressive and layered, featuring citrus zest (orange and lemon peel), ripe pear, and honey. Hints of spice (clove, coriander), floral hops, and mild peppery yeast add depth.
- Flavour: A harmonious blend of sweet malt, citrus, and warming spice. Notes of caramelized sugar, orange zest, and apricot lead to a subtle hop bitterness, balancing the beer’s fruitiness. The Belgian yeast character provides an elegant finish.
- Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied with a smooth, velvety texture. Lively carbonation enhances drinkability, while the alcohol warmth is gentle and well-integrated, leading to a dry yet complex finish.
Perfect Food Pairings
Trappistes Rochefort Triple Extra is an incredibly versatile beer, pairing beautifully with a variety of dishes:
- Meats & Poultry: The beer’s citrus notes and mild spice complement grilled chicken, roasted pork, and spiced sausages, enhancing their flavours.
- Cheese Pairings: Try it with Brie, Camembert, or aged Gouda. The creamy texture of these cheeses balances the beer’s effervescence and fruity esters.
- Seafood: The citrusy, dry finish makes it a great match for grilled prawns, pan-seared scallops, and buttery lobster.
- Vegetarian Pairings: The beer’s spicy complexity enhances dishes like mushroom risotto, roasted butternut squash, and truffle-infused pasta.
- Desserts: The beer’s fruity esters and caramel notes pair wonderfully with lemon tart, crème brûlée, and caramel-drizzled pastries.
Whether enjoyed on its own or with a well-paired meal, Trappistes Rochefort Triple Extra is a sublime showcase of Trappist craftsmanship and a true standout among Belgian Tripels.
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