Watou Tripel is brewed by St. Bernardus in Watou, a village in West Flanders near the French border. The brewery was founded in 1946 and gained its expertise in abbey brewing from its long partnership with the monks of nearby Saint Sixtus Abbey in Westvleteren. Watou Tripel is a traditional abbey beer brewed in the classic tripel style.
It pours a golden blonde with a velvety head. The nose offers an exciting contrast between a refreshing fruitiness reminiscent of apricot and a sublime vanilla perfume. The palate is smooth and gently honeyed from the malt, and the finish brings lovely touches of orange, with a soft, rounded balance throughout.
Serve at 4 to 8°C in a chalice or tulip glass. It pairs well with marinated meats, grilled vegetables, barbecued dishes, cured ham and washed-rind cheeses.