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This week's Beer of the Week is Boulevard Brewing's The Sixth Glass Belgian Quad.
(theperfectlyhappyman.com)
Boulevard Brewing of Kansas City may be new to the Jersey craft beer scene — the company only expanded to the Garden State just a few months ago — but it's certainly not a newcomer to the American beer scene. Boulevard's history dates back to 1988, when craft beer was still relatively new (according to the Brewers Association, there were only 100 breweries in operation in 1988; there are just under 3,000 today).
Founded by John McDonald on Kansas City's Southwest Boulevard, the brewery began with an old Bavarian brewhouse and made its first delivery in November 1989 — right out of McDonald’s truck. Today, Boulevard has increased from its original 6,000 barrel capacity to 600,000 barrels, and is distributed in more than two dozen states.
Among the famous and award-winning beers brewed by Boulevard is this week's Beer of the Week, The Sixth Glass, whose name comes from Hans Christian Andersen's story 'The Watchman of the Tower': "In the sixth glass the Devil and man mix blood; in this thrives everything evil within us."
Fittingly, The Sixth Glass’ label depicts an image of the devil.
A Belgian Quad, The Sixth Glass rings in at 10.50 percent ABV and has earned a perfect 100 “world-class” rating by the Beer Advocate Bros. It pours a deep brown, hazed with chill and yeast, with a thick tan head that sports excellent lacing and retention.
On the nose is a mix of aromas expected from any well-done strong Belgian ale: caramel malts, spicy Belgian yeast, and fruity esters alongside dark fruits.
The taste follows suit perfectly. Sweet malts up front are quickly joined by notes of fruit, earthy hops, and spicy yeast. A manageable — though certainly noticeable — alcoholic warmth kicks in towards the end, just before that spicy finish. The full-body is nicely supported with decent carbonation, leading to a smooth and creamy mouthfeel and an surprising drinkability.
Appearance: 9/10
Aroma: 4/5
Taste: 9/10
Mouthfeel: 4/5
Overall: 18/20
Total: 44/50
Belgian-inspired beers have grown immensely over the years, not unlike the greater craft beer movement. It’s led to a plethora of options from big and small breweries alike, and The Sixth Glass is right there with the best of them.
The Sixth Glass, along with other beers by Boulevard, may not be available in every local liquor store, but if you try hard and enough, I promise you’ll be rewarded.
Chris Morris may be reached at chrismorrisbeer@gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter @ChrisMorrisBeer. Find NJ.com/Entertainment on Facebook.