I drank this last night with company so no notes or anything but here are my impressions: The beer poured a rich mohagony with a small white head that dissipated quickly into wispy islands. The aroma was dominated by raisins and figs with a hint of Carmel and no hops. There may have been a hint of spice but I was looking for it. The flavor
Was as advertised by the aroma: dried fruit and Carmel with subtle spice and pleasant warming alcohol. The mouth feel was incredibly rich, full, and warming. The finish, while not dry wasn't overly sweet either. Bitterness was only perceived by me as the absence of cloying sweetness if that makes sense. I wanted another sip very soon. This 9% Dark Belgian Strong Ale proved a challenge to drink slowly. I am really into this beer. When I heard "Holiday Ale" I was concerned about it being overly spiced but they did a great job at spicing unobtrusively. The balance in this beer is amazing: just enough bitterness, just enough alcohol warmth, generous dried fruit aroma and flavor without completely overwhelming other components. I love their original offering but this one seems to more comfortably sit amongst the pantheon of great Trappist ales. My Trappist monk friends loved it too.