One of my TODOs on my last trip to Brussels (see http://www.bluedust.dontexist.com/fosdem2012/) was to quantify many of the traditional Belgian beers. Now, I've graded hundreds (probably thousands!) of beers in my time, but have never bothered with the standards. You know the sort of beers - the ones you can order, knowing they'll be good and enjoyable, but without the excitment that comes from a new discovery.

The first is St Feuillien Brune. 8.5% from Brasserie St-Feuillien.

Nicely ruby (no, really! hold it up to the light if you don't believe me!) with a stronger ruby on the tongue. (Think of this as a Brand Rouge-lite) matches the StF range well, as it is an all-round pleasant beer with a good tan head, and malty taste. Touches of liquorice and caramel give it a traditional Belgian sweetness.