Brewed and bottle-conditioned at Orval monastery founded in the 1100s in the pastoral Belgium countryside. Fermenting three times with three different malts and two types of hops give great character and complexity. This vintage-dated chardonnay of the beer world can be cellared up to five years.

The Abbey of Orval is located near Florenville, Belgium in the provence of Luxembourg. The present brewery was completed in 1929, at which time the skittle, (pin) shaped bottle was introduced. In the middle ages, Orval was famous for producing its iron decoration as well as beer. The abbey was destroyed during the French Revolution.

Sunset-orange color; a fruity and slightly acidic bouquet, firm body, profound hop bitterness, and long, dry finish.

Mild semisoft cheese, warm brown bread, fresh pears, steamed mussels, clams in Pernod cream sauce, oysters, smoked salmon and trout, and calamari. Traditionally served in Orval balloon glasses to capture the big bouquet and lovely "Belgian Lace." Excellent with a handmade cigar. Serve at 55° to 60°.

Best Bottled Beer—1996 & 1997 Peterborough Beer Festival Gold Medal Trappist Ale -1996 & 1997 World Beer Championship "World classic."-Michael Jackson.

Twelve 11.2-ounce bottles.