Judge’s Review: 95 Rating – Nous Defions by Longtab Brewing Co.

Belgian Dark Strong Ale | Seasonal | USA

By Randy Scorby

Judges Rating: 95.00
Aroma: 23.00
Appearance: 6.00
Flavor: 38.00
Mouthfeel: 10.00
Overall Impression: 18.00

Nous Defions by Longtab Brewing Co. is being evaluated as a Belgian Dark Strong Ale (Category 26D) from the 2021 BJCP Beer Style Guidelines.

It pours a deep brown with ruby highlights and a slight haze. The beige head forms a thick, rocky layer of fine bubbles that gradually settles into a thin but persistent foam. Moderate sheeting and slow-forming legs suggest a notable alcohol presence.

The aroma presents a rich, layered bouquet of dark and dried fruits accented by caramel. Notes of plum, prune, raisin, fig, and black cherry dominate, supported by a subtle bready malt character with hints of toast and crust. As the beer warms, classic Belgian phenols begin to emerge, bringing light vanilla notes. The overall balance is even, though the fruit, especially the cherry, stands out most. As expected for the style, hop aroma is absent, while a soft, perfumed alcohol note rounds out the nose.

On the palate, the flavor closely mirrors the aroma, showcasing a complex ester profile of black cherry, plum, and fig. Mid-palate, lighter notes of bread crust and caramel malt develop, accompanied by a low but gradually building hop bitterness into the finish. The Belgian yeast character takes a little time to fully reveal itself, eventually contributing gentle vanilla and subtle peppery spice that add further depth. A touch of residual sweetness appears mid-palate, but the beer finishes pleasantly dry. The alcohol is evident yet smooth, contributing a refined warmth throughout. This full-bodied Belgian Quad offers a creamy mouthfeel without becoming heavy, supported by moderately high carbonation.

Overall, Nous Defions is a well-crafted Belgian Quad that invites slow enjoyment, especially in a cool, relaxed setting. Its ester profile is expressive yet balanced by malt and yeast complexity, and the alcohol is impressively smooth for its 10% ABV. This is a contemplative sipper best appreciated with enough time to fully take in its depth.