Happy Monk Belgium Pale Ale

Most commonly found in the Flemish provinces of Antwerp and Brabant. Considered a “everyday” beer when compared to their higher alcohol cousins, they are Belgian “session beers” for ease of drinking. 

The Happy Monk is well carbonated, effervescent,  with a soft amber color and off white fluffy head.  One the first draw you’ll notice the clove nose followed by sweet malt.  The beer is of medium body, with a light floral hop finish some residual sweetness.  This highly drinkable  session beer goes well with light summer fare.

The Happy Monk malt bill uses traditional malts from Germany including Pilsner Malt, Munich Malt, Caravienne Malt, and a touch of biscuit malt.  For this version I choose a traditional Trappist Ale yeast fermented at a temperature to balance the spiciness of the yeast phenols, with the sweet malt, and Fuggles and Amarillo hops.

Vital Statistics:

OG: 1.049

FG: 1.008

IBU: 25

Calories: 162

ABV: 4.7%