Everyone knows about the Westvleteren that was released 3 years ago or so. They are distinguished from regular bottles by the imbossed bottle- normally there is no label at all. Well, I had one last night, and it was totally wonderful and at perfect peak. I do believe that these beers age like a sine wave, but if you stashed some aside to save, drink one now- you won’t be sorry. It is as good as beer gets. Sorry for the lack of a formal TN as I am under the weather right now.
I think you ment to type “Brux”, the collaboration between SN and Russian River Brewing Co. I was underwhelmed on release but liked it with a year of age. Would like to hear any updates now.
3 years is about right to start drinking Westy’s. Too young and they are a bit cloying without the secondary flavors developed properly. I like to pull one from the fridge a few minutes before drinking then drinking it while it slowly warms in a snifter. It really goes through some dramatic changes.
Still not sure its worth 20-30 a bottle but certainly starts getting interesting with some age. I usually get up to Seattle for work once a year. I will let you know so you can give some a try if you can make it.
More than happy to host an event in DC if folks want to do a Westy 12 vertical tasting here. I’ve got 3 or 4 different vintages. I’m always looking for a reason to open one.
As far as the Westy, though, I opened one of mine last week based on the advice here. I agree that it’s in a wonderful place. It was fantastic. I wish I hadn’t opened any when I got them, but I’m thankful to have 3 left to check out over the next few years.