Brouwerij Alken-Maes, Belgium

This medium-bodied, red to dark brown colored ale has a malty sweetness and chocolate-like caramel aroma. A light hop flavor and/or aroma is acceptable. Dubbels are also characterized by low-medium to medium bitterness. No diacetyl is acceptable. Yeastgenerated fruity esters (especially banana) are appropriate at low levels. Head retention is dense and mousse-like. Chill haze is acceptable at low serving temperatures. Often bottle conditioned a slight yeast haze and flavor may be evident.

Bell's Brewing Inc., Comstock, Michigan

This is the bench mark for an American I.P.A. Bell's Two Hearted Ale is defined by its intense hop aroma and malt balance. Hopped exclusively with the Centennial hop varietal from the Pacific Northwest, massive additions in the kettle and again in the fermenter lend their characteristic grapefruit and pine resin aromas. A significant malt body balances this hop presence; together with the signature fruity aromas of Bell's house yeast, this leads to a remarkably drinkable American-style India Pale Ale.

Brouwerij Duvel Moortgat NV, Breendonk-Puurs, Belgium

Created by the Moortgat family, bottled Duvel is one of Belgium’s favorite ales. The secret of its success lies in using only best-quality ingredients, and in the well-balanced, very specific, complex brewing and refermentation process that takes over 90 days. After brewing and first fermentation – which takes about 30 days – the beer is tasted by the brewmaster and his staff. At this stage this beer is called “single-fermented.” Typical Duvel flavors and aromas are already emerging, but the beer is lower in alcohol and carbonation, and the taste is slightly lighter and crisper. This is only available in draft and is different from what is in the bottles.

Great Lakes Brewing Company, Cleveland, Ohio

A pint for Pa Conway! Our co-owners’ grandfather and policeman who’d likely uphold that an Irish Ale with full-bodied caramel malt flavors is just the ticket. Arrestingly smooth with a rap sheet of toasty biscuit and caramel malt flavors.