Bomber of the Month: December
St. Bernardus Abt 12 750ml
By: Karen DeLibero
Published: 12/1/2010
Regular Price:
$11.99
Sale Price:
$9.99
Sale End:
12/31/2010
ABV:
10.5%
Beer Advocate:
A
Rate Beer:
100pts
Abt 12... what does that mean? Well, Abt is the strongest beer that a monastery produces in order to honor or please their high priest, known as the Abbot. The number 12 is derived from the Belgian specific gravity reading, which is much like our Alcohol by Volume (ABV) reading of the beer. While Abt 12 is no longer 12% ABV, it still rings in at 10.5%, and remains the strongest beer produced by St. Bernardus. This beer has been produced since the late 19th century, it is a Belgian Quadrupel style ale from St. Bernardus in Watou, Belgium. It is their flagship ale and it doesn't get much better than this.
On to the Tasting Notes:
Abt 12 pours a muddy chestnut color with a big off-white head. The aroma is malty and reminiscent of dark fruit and toffee. It is smooth and creamy on the palate with a big rich flavor of figs, toasted bread, earthy tobacco, and caramel. This is all beautifully balanced by adequate carbonation and a bit of alcohol. Abt 12 truly deserves its reputation as one of the finest beers in the world. It delivers both astonishing complexity and great drinkablity.
Food Pairing:
Not only does Abt 12 have all of the above going for it, but it is fantastic with food as well. On the savory side, try it with grilled sausages, Cassoulet, or Veal Parmigiana. It will go great with your favorite chocolate desserts too, or a fine cigar. On the other hand, this beer is so great on it's own that you may just want to enjoy it with something simple like fresh bread and a good cheese such as Edel de Cleron.