Judge’s Review: 87 Rating – Friars on the Storm by Starkweather Brewing Co.

Belgian Dubbel | Limited Release | USA

By Michael Heniff

Judges Rating: 87.00
Aroma: 20.00
Appearance: 6.00
Flavor: 35.00
Mouthfeel: 9.00
Overall Impression: 17.00

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 moderate 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.