The Sixth Glass is a Belgian-style Quadrupel brewed by Boulevard Brewing Co., and for the purposes of this craft beer review, the ale was served in a snifter from a bottle.
Appearance
The Quad pours a semi-translucent amber-brown and is topped by a thin head of white froth that bubbles down rapidly. The reduction doesn’t leave behind any lace or residue on the glass.
Aroma
The aroma is faint but boozy with sweet, dark fruits and yeast.
Flavor
The complex palate offers dark fruits of fig, prune, and date. They’re blended with Belgian yeast and a touch of mint. Balance is provided with a mild bite noble hops. Its finish is somewhat spicy with phenols of clove and pepper. They’re blended with a taste of booze and toasty bread.
Mouthfeel
This Quad has rich and smooth feel with a full body and less than moderate carbonation. Finishes dry and warmly.
Overall
The appearance for The Sixth Glass was disappointing, but one can live with that. Instead, this brew receives high marks for its decadent feel and subtle complexity in its approachable flavor. And although this brew is a ten percenter, it’s quite easy to tilt back. Boulevard has indeed brewed a superb Quad.
It is the best American approximation of a Belgian Quad that I have found. I enjoy it, it is affordable, but I do not compare it to the real thing.