314. Ommegang Three Philosophers 2009

“And remember: philosophy begins in wonder.” Plato

If we were counting, we would say that this is our fourth beer from Brewery Ommegang, and that we’ve previously tried and imbibed Hennepin, Bière de Mars, and Witte. But we’re not, so let’s just get to the beer, shall we?

Three Philosophers sits a hazy caramel in the glass; there are also red highlights that sparkle along the edges. The nose is dark pitted fruit and caramel maltiness mixed with some Belgian yeast esters—the fruits are cherry and possibly plum and raisin. With warmth, a slight creaminess also emerges. Three Philosophers starts with a bit of sourness coupled with sweet fruitiness and some yeast esters; the middle is a good dose of richer, darker fruit flavor—with cherry to the forefront and some plum in the background—mixed with some tobacco and/or leathery flavors. The finish has a return of the sweetness that is close to Belgian candy—it is sweeter than the front or the nose—but then drops off to finish rather dry. As it warms, the finish does take on a slight citric tartness that lingers on the palate. Although there is a medium to medium heavy body, Three Philosophers does have some dryness in the mouthfeel. The carbonation starts soft in the front, but picks up strength towards the back of the beer, becoming lightly sparkling. And excellent and intriguing beer, although not one we could drink everyday.

My Three Philosophers glass is finally paying some dividends...

From the Ommegang website: “Cynics can’t believe it, Epicures hail it a sensation, and Pythagoreans just can’t add up what makes this luscious blend of rich malty ale and cherry lambic so delightful. It might be the flavor of dark chocolate and cherry cordials; it could be the way it acquires wisdom and grace in the cellar. Maybe it’s a conundrum. What’s your theory? The essence of wonder is a unique and masterful blend of strong malty ale and authentic Belgian Kriek. Our philosophers deduce that this powerful marriage of cherries, roasted malts, and dark chocolate will only achieve more wisdom and coherence as it broods in the dark recesses of your cellar.” My theory is you need some better ad copy...

ABV: 9.8%

And what does wonder begin in?

(5/10/2010)