Wandering Monk Belgian IPA

At a hearty 8% alcohol, Wandering Monk Belgian IPA packs some significant heft into each 500mL bottle. From Elora, Ontario’s Elora Brewing Co., this potent ale is an orange-gold elixir. It’s hazy and pours with a very lively layer of thick, sudsy off-white head.

Wandering Monk has a yeasty nose, augmented by white wine vibes. The flavour is multifaceted; it kicks off with Belgian-style funk and opens into a curious melange of fruity notes. The back end remains yeasty, but swivels into a bitter posture.

This beer would be a nice partner in crime with a strong cheese—methinks the funks would make a joyful noise together. On its own, it’s pretty good stuff, though the somewhat unusual flavour almost certainly precludes teaching for a second bottle—given the potency, that’s probably not a bad thing. I’d have liked a bit heavier hand in the hopping of this brew and it’s a touch sweet, but these are minor complaints about a largely impressive and well-executed ale.

Rating: 8.0 out of 10.