$7.98 per 22-ounce bottle
In my house, “recommended for laying down” is a phrase heard after drinking rather than before. But beginning in 2002, on each triplicate date ( 2/2/02, 3/ 3/03, etc.) Stone has released a bottle-conditioned ale in its Vertical Epic series that’s intended for cellaring at least until Dec. 12, 2012. But don’t let that deter you from popping the cap off this year’s version, a marvelous, fruity Belgian tripel ale made more complex with additions of chamomile and a juice blend of muscat, gerwurztraminer and sauvignon blanc grapes. A hazy gold with a white head and a fruity, spicy aroma, it comes off as a nice American Belgian at first blush. On the palate, it flourishes with flavors of Belgian yeast, apricot and sweet white grapes. A hint of hops brings up the rear as it hits the back of the tongue. It’s crisper even than the normally refreshing Belgian, but the flavors are likely to mellow if cellared. Carbonation is high but tight, resulting in a smooth mouthfeel. Buy several of these and put a few away, but open one up with Thanksgiving dinner as a crisp, complex alternative to wine. Alcohol by volume of 9.5 percent. Stone Brewing Co., Escondido, Calif.;
Marcus Chamberland; mchamberland@denverpost.com
