Friars on the Storm

Judge’s Review

Michael Heniff
Grand Master III BJCP judge

Rating 87 (Very Good)

Judges Rating: 87
Aroma: 20/24
Appearance: 6/6
Flavor: 35/40
Mouthfeel: 9/10
Overall Impression: 17/20

Friars on the Storm by Starkweather Brewing Co. is a Belgian Dubbel and is being evaluated as a Belgian Dubbel (category 26B in the 2021 BJCP Beer Style Guidelines). Belgian Dubbels are noted for their complex bready malt profile, complemented by their yeast-derived dark and dried fruit esters and peppery phenolics, but at a slightly lower strength than Belgian Dark Strong Ales.

Friars on the Storm pours reddish-brown in color, is clear, and sports a medium, fluffy tan head. The aroma is of moderately rich bready malt with a moderately light caramel note, moderately light peppery phenolics, and moderately light plum-like esters. The flavor features moderate bready malt elements with a light sweetness balanced by moderately light peppery phenolics. The beer finishes moderately bitter with lingering bready malt and peppery phenolics.

Friars on the Storm is an enjoyable Belgian Dubbel, but it lacks a little complexity typically shown in its Belgian counterparts. Still, this Belgian Dubbel is worth trying.

Brewer’s Description

Friars on the Storm is our Belgian Dubbel, which has been an ale that comes back a few times per year.  It features notes of caramel, stone fruit, and solid phenols with esters from the yeast.

Beer Style & Statistics

Beer Style: Belgian Dubbel
Beer Style Family: Monastic Ale
Availability: Limited Release
ABV: 7.2%

IBUs: 20
Served at: 45º F
Hops: Magnum
Malts: Two Row, Oats, Extra Special, Crystal, Chocolate, Candi Sugar

Brewery Information

Belgian Dubbel | Limited Release | Wisconsin | USA