For those who are devotees of Trappist ales, to write about the importance of the Westmalle abbey is indeed a privilege. After all, it is where two of the most influential beer styles (Dubbel and Tripel) emerged from. Both styles are copied far and wide, with Tripel being more replicated with craft brewers worldwide.

However, a lesser known beer style that is brewed at Trappist breweries is the beer that the monks enjoy on a regular basis with their meals. It is known as a “Singel” (or Single), also called “Patersbier” (Father’s beer) or “Tafelbier” (Table beer) by the monks. For the longest time, these lower strength beers were not seen in the commercial marketplace and were reserved for the monk’s consumption only, but that has changed. Drinking habits and tastes are embracing great tasting low ABV beers for various reasons, whether it be for health, spiritual reasons, or otherwise.

Although the Westmalle Extra has been available on the market since 2021, this is my first time (finally!) trying this world class ale…

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