Arrgh, this Belgian IPA has a sweetness up front that includes some fruitiness.  There seems to be quite a bit of complexity there, including spice, but alcohol seems to come through and subdue/mask some of the flavors.  So although sweet, the finish is dry and a bit alcohol-y.  Has that fine carbonation that is so typical of Belgian made beers, but in this case, there seemed to be not quite enough of it, so I wonder if my experience with Piraat is not typical.  I'm a bit surprised this is classified as a Belgian IPA as it didn't taste particularly hoppy to me.  Sure, there is some sourness to the finish, but overall the dryness and the alcohol make much more of an impact in the finish than any hoppiness, in my opinion.  For some reason this beer makes me think of Mike Leach.

Bottle Cap

Brewery Website

BeerTripper Rating

http://www.vansteenberge.com/

Alcohol Concentration

10.50

Belgian IPA

Ale