Beer Dude: Corsendonk Abbey Pale Ale

Beer Dude: Corsendonk Abbey Pale Ale: "This morning, while at work sitting in front of my computer thinking about all of the things I'd rather be doing, I noticed a message from ..."

Corsendonk Abbey Pale Ale

This morning,  while at work sitting in front of my computer thinking about all of the things I'd rather be doing, I noticed a message from a long time friend (RGP). He asked why his favorite beer was not on my list. After  work I made a stop and found Corsendonk Pale Ale. Not quite the Corsendonk Abbey Brown Ale requested as they were out of stock. Not wanting to leave empty handed, I bought the Pale Ale and put it in the fridge when I got home.
The Corsendonk Abbey Pale Ale is a Belgian Style Trippel delivered in a 750 ml bottle all the way from Oud-Turnhou, Belgium. It's 7.50% ABV served at 55 degrees in a Tulip glass. The pour produced a lavish head that was retained for quite some time. The clear, golden beer had an initial sugary sweetness on the tongue with notes of citrus and coriander. The mouth feel was smooth and crisp. Definitely a nice Belgian Style Trippel that I will buy in the future. Not something that I would buy and cellar as there is a best before date on the label. I'm looking forward to drinking the Abbey Brown Ale. Cheers!

'Throwing Down The Gauntlet'

Here we have 'The Gauntlet'. An Imperial IPA by Iron Fist Brewing Company that packs a nice 9.5%  ABV in a 750 ml bottle. At $12 a bottle, this beer will deliver the the state of mind, but does it deliver on the flavor?
I poured this beer into a large, clean, tulip glass and served it at 50 degrees. A nice, thick head was retained. The copper color and hop aroma were a prelude to the intense flavor in the first sip.
I enjoyed the entire beer, but I wouldn't go so far as to give it an A rating.  I think Iron Fist Brewing Company does some good work and is off to a great start. There is a great deal of competition here in San Diego and that's good for all of us beer drinkers. I look forward to drinking Iron Fist's beers as they move into the future.