The Trappistes Rochefort 10 is one of the finest and most renowned Belgian Trappist beers, brewed by the monks of the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Saint-Rémy in Rochefort, Belgium. The abbey's brewing tradition dates back to the 16th century, and Rochefort 10 is a stellar example of their dedication to quality and craftsmanship.
First introduced in 1952, Rochefort 10 is the strongest of the three beers brewed by the abbey, boasting an impressive ABV of 11.3%. It is often regarded as one of the best Quadrupel beers in the world and has garnered numerous accolades for its complexity and rich, layered flavours. The beer is brewed under strict Trappist guidelines, ensuring that profits are used for monastery upkeep and charitable works.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Rochefort 10 pours a dark, opaque brown with ruby highlights, capped by a thick, creamy tan head. The beer has a beautiful appearance that reflects its richness and depth.
- Aroma: The nose is intoxicating, with notes of dark fruits such as figs, raisins, and plums, complemented by rich malts, dark chocolate, and a slight hint of alcohol warmth. Spices like clove and nutmeg add a layer of complexity, making each sniff a sensory delight.
- Flavour: The flavour profile of Rochefort 10 is incredibly complex, with layers of dark fruits (figs, prunes, raisins), caramel, and toffee unfolding on the palate. There is also a hint of dark chocolate and roasted malt sweetness, balanced by an earthy bitterness and subtle spiciness from the yeast. The alcohol warmth is present but never overwhelming, making it smooth and satisfying.
- Mouthfeel: Full-bodied and creamy, Rochefort 10 has a velvety mouthfeel that coats the palate, making it a luxurious sipping beer. The moderate carbonation provides a slight effervescence, enhancing the beer's complexity and balance.
Brewery Information:
The Abbaye Notre-Dame de Saint-Rémy is one of the eleven Trappist breweries worldwide, producing beer within the walls of the monastery under the supervision of the monks. This ancient abbey has been brewing beer for centuries, and their Rochefort beers are among the most celebrated in the world. Rochefort 10 was first brewed in 1952, and since then, it has become a benchmark for the Quadrupel style, admired for its depth and richness.
The brewery operates under the strict guidelines of the International Trappist Association, ensuring that the beer is brewed on-site, and the proceeds are used for the maintenance of the abbey and charitable causes. Rochefort 10 has earned numerous awards, and its status as one of the finest beers in the world is unquestionable.
Food Pairings:
Rochefort 10 is a robust and complex beer, making it an ideal pairing for rich, flavourful dishes and decadent desserts. Here are some excellent food pairings:
- Cheese: The strong flavours of aged cheeses like Gouda, Roquefort, or Stilton pair beautifully with Rochefort 10. The beer’s sweetness balances the sharpness of the cheese, creating a harmonious match.
- Roasted Meats: The rich malts and dark fruit notes in Rochefort 10 complement roasted meats such as lamb, beef, or duck. The caramelised flavours in the meat enhance the beer’s sweet and savoury balance.
- Chocolate Desserts: Rochefort 10’s dark chocolate and caramel notes make it a perfect pairing for rich chocolate desserts, such as a flourless chocolate cake, chocolate mousse, or even dark chocolate truffles.
- Stews: Belgian-style stews, particularly those made with beef or game, are a natural pairing for Rochefort 10. The beer’s robust character complements the hearty flavours of slow-cooked meats and vegetables.
Trappistes Rochefort 10 is a beer for those who appreciate the complexity and depth of a true Belgian Quadrupel. Its rich malt backbone, combined with dark fruits, spices, and a velvety mouthfeel, make it a luxurious experience from the first sip to the last. Whether you’re pairing it with a meal or enjoying it on its own, Rochefort 10 is a must-try for any serious craft beer enthusiast.
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