Name: Vertical Epic 07/07/07

Brewer: Stone

Style: Belgian Abbey Ale (Tripel)

Cellared On: August 3rd, 2007

Original Tasting: August 9th, 2007

The latest in Stone’s Vertical Epic series of brews (see my post here), the 07/07/07 is a light, flavorful, and waayyy too easy to drink take on a Belgian-style tripel. As it goes into the glass, I’m hit by an aromatic, fruity smell. It seems very carbonated, and leaves a nice bubbly head. It pours a beautiful cloudy lightish-orange color.

When tasting, the lightness of this brew really strikes me. Just so easy on the lips. It has a very smooth mouthfeel, especially for something so carbonated. Taking a sip (or more like a gulp), the typical Belgian yeasty flavor twang hits me first, but not too aggressively. As the beer finishes, I get a burst of citrus fruit (grapefruit and lemon) followed by a lingering spicyness. A perfect beer for a hot summer night.

Six Month Tasting: February 22nd, 2008

Six months in, and this brew is holding up beautifully. Not very much change in color, taste, or flavor. If anything, it seems to be moving more towards a Saison in flavor. Lots of citrus goodness, some up front sugar and spice, a biscuity malt presence, and a finish that’s dry, tart, and over fast.

Cellar Outlook: The brewers at Stone crafted this beer to be able to last until after 12/12/12, so I think it’s going to do pretty well in the cellar. Whether or not it can actually make it all the way to 2012 while still in its prime is another matter all together.

Six Month Outlook: I don’t have any reason to change my original predictions now. I don’t think the spice flavors will make it for too much longer, but there’s so much else going on in here that it won’t be missed too much.

Next Tasting: August 2008