Trappistes Rochefort 8

Today we'll take a quick look at another great beer from the fine monks at Brasserie de Rochefort. Last time we looked at a young and amazing Rochefort 10, now its a Rochefort 8 that is over two years old.

The ale pours a beautiful deep mahogany color with a wispy tan head. The nose has a sweet banana and gingerbread-like malt aroma with a little anise mixed in. The flavor starts out earthier with some malty sweetness in the background. The mouth feel is a little light, but still rich, with plenty of carbonation and finishes with a light alcohol sting and a touch of anise.

Overall a very fine beer, I think I would like it more if it was younger – remember to subtract five years from the best-by date on all Rochefort beers to find the bottled on date. The body is not a rich as the 10 and, due partially to age, the aromas and flavors are not as strong as they could be.