St. Feuillien Blonde Ale (7/10)

St. Feuillien Blonde, according to the brewery's web site, won the Silver Medal at the Australian Beer Awards in 2011 in the category of Belgian and French style ales.  It was also awarded the title of World's Best Abbey Pale Ale in London in 2010.  The brewery itself is located in Belgium, and was founded in 1873.

My first impression on pouring this beer was the sound it made going into the glass, which was identical to a soft drink.  It sounded thin and very carbonated.  As is typical for a blonde ale, it is a very pale gold with a coarse, thick white head that dissipates slowly and leaves behind a thick but spotty lacing.

The aroma has a strong citrus note with a hint of hops.  I get kind of a (pleasant) mustiness as well.

The flavor comes close to the aroma.  I get a little citrus there, giving way to a mild hoppiness and a subtle fruity, spicy element.  It's pretty much what you'd expect for a Belgian blonde ale in terms of flavor profile.  The finish is a little bitter, but not unpleasantly so.  It would be a great beer to drink during the summer, maybe when grilling a burger or after cutting the grass.

Beer Advocate rates St. Feuillien Blonde an 87 or "good".  RateBeer gives it a 90 overall.
I purchased this beer at Palmer Beverage Center on Indianola.  I've recently seen other products from this brewery at the following Columbus area retailers:  The Andersons General Store, Ale Wine & Spirits of Powell, Whole Foods Market in Dublin, and Kenny Road Market.

ABV: 7.5%
IBU: unknown, but I'd estimate in the lower 20's
My Rating:  7/10