Most beer nerds get a bit misty eyed and weak in the knees when you mention Westvleteren beer. It is arguably one of the best beers you can get, the trouble is it’s notoriously hard to find. Normally it can be purchased only at the gates of the monastery and only in very small quantities. Bad news for those of us not within easy driving distance of the St. Sixtus monastery.
Turns out though that Brouwerij St. Bernardus in Watou, Belgium has a close connection to St. Sixtus. From 1946 until 1992 St. Bernardus brewed under the St. Sixtus name. Apparently the recipes they use are similar to the ones Westvleteren still use.

After trying the Abt 12 I believe it. The look, smell, and taste are very similar to the Westvleteren 12. Tons of fruit and spice in both the nose and the taste. It’s rich, complex and smooth. Even though this is a 10% ABV beer, the alcohol is not overpowering. Even still it’s not one that will sneak up on you because you drank it to fast or had too many, it is so very rich. And best of all it’s easy to get here in Edmonton.

I would drink this again. Oh boy would I!