Exemption

Exemption by Taxman Brewing Co. is a Belgian Tripel with spices that is being judged as 26C-Belgian Tripel. This example of the old world Abbey Tripel brings some new world character along with it. In the glass, it is faintly hazed and a pale gold with a persistent frothy head. The nose gives the classic spicy phenolics and vanilla, along with some light citrus, both from the yeast and hops. I do get a hint of DMS that detracts, adding a corny element, but overall, a very fresh and clean beer otherwise. The taste is a bit one dimensional overall, lacking depth and yeast complexity. Minimal spicing with low bready notes, tending more towards white pepper and vanilla. Some more ester character on the taste would help, especially some citrus to round it out. Overall, the flavor is on the lighter side and comes off closer to a blonde than a tripel, in my humble opinion. The mouthfeel is fairly warming but the carbonation is low, which may be a result of this coming from a can. Lighter body than expected. Overall, this is a decent Belgian styled beer but it lacks complexity and depth. It is very drinkable, however.