Real Ale Devil's Backbone

◎ Appearance

Pale golden hue with excellent clarity and a bright, sustained white head that clings to the glass with fine lacing. Carbonation is crisp and visible, creating a lively effervescence that reflects the beer's Belgian character. The pale color sits at the lighter end of the tripel spectrum, consistent with the 5 SRM.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with pronounced Belgian yeast phenolics—clove and black pepper—layered over a delicate stone fruit character dominated by pear and subtle peach. Honey notes emerge in the background, warm and slightly floral, with minimal hop presence allowing the fermentation character to dominate. A faint alcohol warmth rounds the bouquet without sharpness.

◐ Taste

The palate opens dry with immediate spice from Belgian esters, followed by a fruity mid-palate where pear and stone fruit flavors integrate smoothly with subtle honey sweetness. Bitterness is restrained at 35 IBU, adding definition without assertiveness. The finish builds a warming alcohol presence—characteristic of the 8.1% ABV—that undercuts the initial sweetness and drives the beer toward surprising dryness.

◑ Finish

The finish is notably dry and extended, with lingering phenolic spice and a gentle alcohol heat that belies the beer's apparent body. No cloying residue remains; instead, a clean, slightly peppery aftertaste encourages the next sip.

Serve at 10–13°C in a goblet. The yeast character and carbonation are the stars — cold would suppress both.

The wide mouth and heavy base promote head formation and channel rich aromatics toward the nose. Traditional for Belgian strong ales.