Mikkeller It’s Alive!

Name: Mikkeller It’s Alive!
Brand: Beer
SKU: 5c8161de1603daa56f8b4c75
Availability: OutOfStock
Rating: 3.63 (13647 reviews)

Belgian Strong Ale 8 º

Mikkeller

Mikkeller’s It’s Alive! is a vibrant, evolving tribute to traditional Trappist brewing, specifically referencing the rustic character of Orval. This amber-hued Belgian Golden Strong Ale is defined by a generous hopping of Hallertauer and Styrian Goldings, providing a spicy, floral, and herbal foundation. The inclusion of Cara malt adds sensory depth and a darker hue than typical for the style, while a potent Brettanomyces culture introduces a wild, earthy complexity that matures in the bottle. Highly attenuated and effervescent, it offers a deceptively light body for its 8% strength, finishing remarkably dry with a lingering, hop-forward bitterness and peppery phenols.

Appearance. Deep gold to amber (SRM 8–12). Features a massive, long-lasting, rocky white head with dense, characteristic Belgian lacing. Clarity is generally good, though a slight yeast or Brettanomyces-driven sheen may be present.

Aroma. High intensity with a complex bouquet of spicy Hallertauer and floral Styrian Goldings hops. Moderate to high fruity esters of pear and apple are present, layered over a rustic Brettanomyces character suggesting leather and earth. Light caramel and grainy-sweet malt notes from Cara malt are balanced by a peppery alcohol presence.

Taste. Initial impression is hop-forward and dry. Flavors of pear and citrus zest meet a spicy, herbal hop character. The malt profile is light but present, offering crackers and subtle caramel before being overtaken by peppery phenols and a funky, earthy Brettanomyces complexity. High bitterness is accentuated by a very dry, crisp finish and a lingering herbal aftertaste.

Mouthfeel. Medium-light body, much lighter than the 8% ABV suggests. Very high carbonation creates an effervescent, prickly sensation on the tongue. Smooth but noticeable alcohol warmth. Highly attenuated and clean, with no heavy sweetness.

Sensory Profile.