Strong is obviously subjective, so for argument's sake we're talking about beers that are 7.0% and above. Often, when one thinks of a strong beer, visions of rich, swirling darkness come to mind. And that's commonly true. Yet, there are many a golden beauties out there that pack just as big o' punch (we're looking at you, Belgians!) Let's look at some of our favourite strong beers that we love to enjoy on a cold, autumn evening--or any time, really!
This smug American strong ale packs an aggressive punch at 7.2%, that's for sure. While its assertive bitterness is most obvious it maximises on its chewy maltiness with flavours of caramel, dried fruit and whiskey. It's not for the light-hearted.
Weighing in at 9.5%, this Trappist-style tripel is, well, strong. The great/dangerous thing about Belgian tripels, however, is that they're deceptively strong. There's a certain light dryness which is accompanied by notes of spice, vanilla and stone fruits that mask its heft. Be careful standing up if you've been enjoying it sitting down!
This imperial stout is one that comes to mind when we daydream about those dark, decadent strong beers. Aged in Kentucky Bourbon barrels for a year, this 11.8% (!!!) bohemoth is gloriously teeming with notes of milk chocolate, caramel, coffee and vanilla. Ohhh yeahhh...
This collaboration between Brooklyn Brewery and Thornbridge blurs all the lines between styles. This 9.5% beer is based off a Belgian golden strong ale but has been aged in barrels with the yeasts that turn apples into cider. Its funky, tart, wine-like character is wondrously complex and it finishes light and lively on the palate. Be careful of this sneaky brew!
Other Styles You'll Love
Double IPA/DIPA
You didn't think we'd forget this favourite-among-many, did you? The DIPA is generally a more malt, more hops, more alcohol, more everything version of the American IPA and an intense demonstration of American hops. While "double" does not mean "double the strength" these are definitely not session beers but rather a creamy, hoppy, and rich American-style IPA. Expect some of these to appear upwards of 13% ABV!
Must try: Siren Hop Candy
Doppelbock
Coming in either pale or dark varieties, the Doppelbock is a rich, malty and strong--about 7-10%--German lager. Maltier and fuller-bodied the darker they get, this style is a Bavarian speciality with names that usually end in "ator". Expect a toasty and roasty malt character which comes across as liquid bread.
Must try: Ayinger Celebrator Doppelbock
Wee Heavy
Finding its roots in strong ales from the 1700s, the Wee Heavy is the very strongest, about 6.5-10%, of all Scottish ales with a ruby-brown hue, profound maltiness and high alcohol content. The Wee Heavy showcases complex toffee and vinous notes and a restrained hop character. This style is perfect for aging.
Must try: Founders Dirty Bastard
Gueuze
Believe it or not, these effervescent, funky, spritzy sour Belgian ales do come in ABVs upwards of 8%. The most famed of Belgian sour ales, the Gueuze is traditionally made by blending one, two and three-year-old lambics. While noticeably sour due to its spontaneous fermentation, a fine Gueuze should not taste like vinegar rather still have a lovely bouquet, silky mouthfeel and effervescent carbonation.
Must try: Boon Gueuze Mariage Parfait
