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Southampton Double White – This is a truly special brew and a Southampton original. It is a “double strength” or “double gravity” version of a classic Belgian-style white ale. White Ales (or Witbiers) are called white because their light color and cloudy appearance make them appear almost white. They are unfiltered wheat-based brews with a unique citrus and spice character that comes from the use of orange peel and ground coriander seed in the brewing process. Southampton Double White honors the original Belgian white ale style, but it has a little more of everything— more complex orangey/citrusy fruitiness, a slightly fuller body, more alcohol and a more satisfying finish. It’s delicate, balanced and every bit as refreshing as the original style, but more intense.
Southampton Burton India Pale Ale – This English Pale Ale is modeled after a style of ale that comes from the famous English brewing city of Burton-on-Trent. We add minerals to the Southampton water to make it identical to the water in Burton-on-Trent, notably a fair amount of calcium. The high mineral content has the effect of adding a dryness of flavor to the brew as well as a fullness of body. It has a light/medium malt flavor and a refreshing fruitiness (notes of “peach” and “apricot”), the hop character is also restrained compared to other traditional English styles such as IPA.
Ommegang ABBEY ALE – Abbey was Ommegang’s first beer and was styled after Dubbels produced by Belgian Trappist monks. A deep, rich and malty ale, Abbey uses several Belgian specialty malts and spices resulting in a very aromatic, flavorful beer.
Deep burgundy in color, topped by a dense tan head, Abbey Ale is rich on the palate but with a dry finish. Suitable for cellaring, Abbey develops wonderful caramel, fig, and currant notes with age.
Ommegang RARE VOS – Rare Vos Amber Ale is styled after the smooth, drinkable beers popular in Belgian cafés. It pours a light copper hue, contrasting beautifully with a big, creamy white head. The nose offers orange blossoms and slight spice. On the palate, the caramel maltiness shines strongly but with little sweetness. The profile leans toward dry fruity (yeast-affiliated), slightly fruity/hoppy with a beguiling spiciness. This complex, medium-bodied beer has a smooth mid-palate and moderate dry finish. Well-balanced in all elements, it’s a mild, mellow brew.
