Wise Monkeys Belgian Golden Strong is the latest in my reviews of the craft beers brewed in Texas.
The Pour
Poured from a 12 ounce can into a pint glass Wise Monkeys produced a thick white head on a bright, crystal clear golden ale. The head retains at a cap and leaves behind some lacing. A persistent bead of carbonation rising to keep the head alive. The nose is full of fruit, stone fruit, and some tropical. Candy sugar nose. Not overly yeasty, a hint. Perceptible hops. A noble type of hop presence with a slight spice.
The Taste
This beer is a Belgian Strong and that really comes through with the high ABV. Wise Monkeys have a flavor full of fruit, mango, and apricot come to mind. It is medium to full body with a slick mouthfeel. It Comes on sweet with that big body but a doesn’t finish overly sweet.
Brewers Description of Wise Monkeys
“Wise Monkeys is a Belgian Golden Strong that packs a punch in a devilishly drinkable package. When you raise the glass to your nose, you will detect a bit of fermented stone fruit, specifically peach, and pear. It also has a slightly perceptible sweetness with a semi-dry finish.”
What is with the name Wise Monkeys?
When the Manhattan Project Beer company announced the release of Wise Monkeys they provided some insight to the name. It is a description of how wise we can be after having a couple of beers with 10% ABV. It is also an homage to the signage around the Los Alamos laboratory reminding everybody to keep the project a secret.
Opinion
This beer will sneak up on you if you are not careful. This is a sipping beer, not a slamming beer. It is a balance of hops and other flavors that make it smooth but with a punch. The brewers recommend serving this beer with
By the Numbers
ABV 10%
IBU 30
Read about another great Texas beer here.