Poured from a 12-oz. bottle into a Trappist glass, Pere Jacques has the appearance of a typical dark Belgian ale, much like Chimay Blue. The nose presents a bouquet of sweet malts, figs, dates, prunes and toffee. Despite such a sugar-coated nose, the taste of is delightfully balanced — a near perfect rendition of the style. A bit of heat is present from the alcohol — it rings in at 8.7 % ABV — but it never distracts from the rich quality. Though the mouthfeel is slightly sticky, it never becomes so so extreme that it distracts from the enjoyable drinking experience.

 

Pere Jacques took the gold medal at the 2011 Great American Beer Festival, and is still a great ode to its style. As suggested on the bottle, it is suitable for aging up to five years. Pick up a four-pack to try one fresh, and then store the others away to try in a next year or two. Toast to craft brewing, and the hope that even though Goose Island is now part of a big conglomerate, the quality product will remain true.