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Rochefort 8: complete guide to the Trappist with the green cap
The Rochefort 8, also known as the "green cap," is the best-selling Trappist beer from the Saint-Remy abbey brewery in Rochefort, Belgium. Introduced in 1954, it accounts for over 60% of the brewery's total production.
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Aromatic profile and characteristics
- Color: brown with reddish highlights, fine and persistent foam.
- Aroma: vanilla, citrus, ripe fruit, caramel, licorice.
- Taste: balance between malty sweetness and closing bitterness.
- ABV: 9.2% — powerful but surprisingly drinkable, with a dry finish.
Rochefort 8 vs Rochefort 10
The Rochefort 10 (11.3% ABV, blue cap) has more candied sugar and richer malts: notes of dried fruit, chocolate, plum, and more pronounced spices. Fuller body, improves further with aging.
Rochefort 8 vs Westmalle Tripel
- Style: Rochefort 8 is a dark strong ale; Westmalle Tripel is a golden and spicy tripel.
- Aromas: Rochefort 8 — dark fruit, caramel, licorice; Westmalle — fruity esters, banana, spices, dry finish.
- Occasions: Rochefort 8 for meditation or with hearty dishes; Westmalle as an aperitif or with fresh cheeses.
Clone for homebrewing
- Base of pils or pale ale malt with caramel and Munich malts.
- Small percentages of dark malt or carafa for body and moderate roasting.
- Dark candied sugar for alcohol and body cleanliness.
- Belgian Strong Ale or Trappist-like yeast for fruity and spicy esters.
- Bottle maturation is essential to approach the complex profile.
Tasting and pairings
- Temperature: 10–12°C in a tulip glass.
- Pairings: aged cheeses, roasts, mushrooms, dark chocolate, caramel desserts.
- Storage: upright, in a cool place — improves with a few years of controlled aging.
Discover the full selection of Trappist beers on Maltese → Rochefort, Chimay, Westmalle and much more. Shipping in Italy 24-48h.
