Pranqster Belgian Style Golden Ale - North Coast Brewing Co., Fort Bragg

North Coast Brewing's Pranqster is described as a Belgian Style Golden Ale. If I'd seen, smelled and tasted this beer without seeing the bottle I would have guessed that this beer was a Tripel. It's got the rich sour citrus flavor and high ABV that really screams Tripel to me. This beer's aroma is probably the only boring thing about it. You'll notice a little yeast, some sweet fruit and a little horse blanket. All the components are there, but it's pretty mellow. The Pranqster has practically not head at all. It's a little peculiar, especially when you're trying to coax up a head for your photo... but ultimately it doesn't really change the drinking experience.

North Coast's Pranqster has a great flavor. I'm almost convinced that this Strong Ale is really just a Tripel in disguise... The Pranqster is a little sweet, a bit more sour and it coats your palate with a lingering spiciness. When you first take a sip of this beer you notice it has a rich citrus sweetness. The beer tastes a bit heavy and the alcohol level is noticeable when drinking out of a tulip glass. When you get a mouthful of the Pranqster you really notice how similar it is to a Tripel. There is a good deal of sour yeast in this beer and it really balances out the sweet citrus flavors.

If you're a fan of strong Belgian style beers you'll love the Pranqster. This beer packs a lot of flavor and complexity into a light colored beer that is right around seven and a half percent alcohol.