Bissell Brothers Precept

Precept is an 8.0% ABV ale from Bissell Brothers of Maine, and the distributor describes it as Belgian-style. That strength puts it in the territory of strong Belgian ales, a family that usually combines a soft, bready malt body with yeast-driven character. Expect peppery spice, ripe orchard or stone fruit esters, and a faint banana-and-clove note typical of Belgian yeast strains. The finish in this style tends to run dry and fairly smooth, with carbonation that lifts the alcohol so a beer this strong doesn't taste heavy. No IBU figure is listed, but bitterness in Belgian strong ales is generally restrained, serving the yeast and malt rather than competing with them. Because of the 8.0% strength, this is a beer to pour slowly and sip. Serve it cool rather than ice cold, around 45 to 50°F (7 to 10°C). Straight from a cold refrigerator the fruit and spice stay muted, and a few minutes on the counter lets the esters and warming alcohol open up. A tulip or goblet suits it best: the flared lip supports a thick head and the bowl concentrates the aroma. Pour with care and leave any yeast sediment in the bottle if it's bottle-conditioned. At the table, the spice and carbonation make this a flexible partner for richer food. Roast chicken or pork with herbs, mussels in white wine and garlic, and washed-rind or semi-soft cheeses such as Havarti or Gouda are all natural fits, since the carbonation cuts through fat and the yeast spice echoes seasoning. Mustard-glazed sausages and sharp, fruity chutneys also work well. For dessert, a roasted-apple or caramel-based dish suits the sweeter, fruitier side of the style.