First week working back in the pub this year was a hectic one! Hopefully now that initial rush has subsided, I’ve got a bit more time for beer reviews and another little idea I’m cooking up. Today’s beer is yet another new brewery for me. St Mars of the Desert is a Sheffield based outfit and in 2020 was recognised as one of the world’s best new breweries! This beer is a Dark Belgian Abbey-style quadruple. This European style is known for it’s high ABV, which in this case is 8.8%, and an abbey-type beer is one brewed in the styles of those from Belgian Trappist monks. Needless to say, it’s an aspect of beer that I have very little experience in and was very much looking forward to diving into.

A really interesting colour to the beer that almost changed from amber to chestnut. Formed a big off-white head as well. A rather pleasant aroma of honey and nuts. The flavour of the beer is rather complex too. There is a good amount of sweetness from the malts, similar to a golden ale but perhaps more akin to mead. However, there is also a chestnut like quality to the taste too while also bringing a touch of bitterness to the finish.

A quick note on the can art: A simple replicated design of a Yucca tree in a desert. my only issue is that at first I found the brewery name and information a tad difficult to read!

One of the most interesting beers I have had recently. Firstly, while it did taste a touch boozy, I would never have guessed it was 8.8%. Additionally, it’s a type of beer I have certainly never had before and exploring new styles is something I love to do. it features a very complex array of flavours that work well together and that I’ve not seen in probably any other beer I’ve had. As mentioned, the sweetness that comes through is very honey-like and that nutty aspect is cracking. It has got me incredibly intrigued to explore the world of Belgiam beers a lot more.

Score: 8.5/10

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Additional Information:

• Hops: Not Available
• Malt: Not Available
• IBU: Not Available
• ABV: 8.8%
• Gluten Free: No
• Vegan: Yes!