Dueling Dubbels

This week I had the special opportunity to put two Belgian Trappist Dubbels, some of the best in the world, head to head against each other. The first is Chimay Red, the second in Westmalle Dubbel. Two beers, same style, completely different profiles. One quick disclosure, I do not have a chalice or goblet from which to properly enjoy these, so I substituted a similar glass to still try and retain how the monks wanted their beer enjoyed.

Starting with the appearance, the Chimay poured a redish brown, almost coppery color, while the Westmalle poured a much deeper purplish ruby color. Head was another major difference. The Chimay poured a very limited dissipating white head. The other poured a fluffy tan head that stood up well to time. As for the aroma, the Chimay smelled malty and grainy with a hint of yeasty spice and fruitiness. There is also a hint of darker malt on the smell. The Westmalle had a much more intense smell. It was almost like grape juice. It had a strong dark fruit presence like grapes and prunes. In terms of taste, both started similarly, very fizzy. As soon as it hits your mouth you can tell it is highly carbonated. Then the flavors diverge quite sharply. The Chimay starts with a strong pilsner malt taste that transformers into slightly fruity and spicy flavor, creating a strong gingerbread feel. This coats the mouth with the fizziness leaving a lasting drying note, making you want more right away. It is very easy drinking with a medium light body. The Westmalle develops into a strong dark fruit flavor along the same lines as the aroma. It is very pruney with a hint of chocolate. It too has a drying finish, but even though they have the same ABV this tastes bigger. It does not taste alcoholic, but it has a bigger body more in the medium to medium full range. This one is not quite as easy to drink as Chimay Red, so it lasts a little longer in your glass.

In my opinion, I prefered the Westmalle. It had a more intense aroma and fuller flavor. That being said I was blown away by how incredible both these beers were. I am very fortunate to have a bottle shop with such an outstanding collection just a 5 minute walk from my place.

Additionally this week, I went to Kilmainham Gaol (jail) where we got a tour of the grounds and a bit of history about the 1916 Easter Rising. This is the place where the leaders of the rebellion were jailed and many ultimately executed. It was fascinating to hear how public opinion changed from being largely against the violent uprising to viewing the men as martyrs upon their execution.

Lastly, today I went to Christ Church Cathedral, Dublinia, and the Irish Whiskey Museum. Christ Church Cathedral was cool to see, but was surprisingly small and was not particularly ornately decorated on the inside. Dublinia was a museum of Viking history in Ireland, but as I started out in the museum, it was readily apparent that this was more of a kids attraction than anything. The Irish Whiskey Museum was a fun tour, giving a thorough history of the making of whiskey and some tasting at the end. Personally, I found whiskey is not my drink and tastes a bit too hot for my enjoyment, so I'll be sticking to beer instead. That being said, if you are a whiskey fan, it is well worth your time and money, and if you aren't it is still interesting, just a bit pricey if you aren't there to enjoy the drink.

Stay tuned next week where I will get my hands on some Belgian Sour beers as well as an authentic Kolsch style to preface my time in Cologne.