Name: Matilda
Style: Belgian Strong Pale Ale
Brewery: Goose Island website
Country: USA
Region: Chicago, Illinois
ABV: 7.0% abv
How served: 22 oz capped bottle poured into a Malheur glass.
My Overall Opinion: Good 
I paired this beer with: Giants vs 49er’s NFC Championship Game & leftover Ruth’s Chris Rib-eye steak and a potato knish.
Tasted on: Sunday January 22, 2012
Notes: Bottle 11/16/09
The beer poured a hazy orangey golden color with a 1 finger head which dissipated rather quickly leaving a mild lacing on the glass.
The nose was sweet and malty / bready with some Belgian yeast notes and a hint of orange and spices.
The taste was slightly sweet of bread crust, malt and orange. There was a slight musty flavor in the background with some spiciness and not much tartness from the Brettanomyces. The beer finished dry.
The body was of a medium body with a low level of carbonation and very little effect from the alcohol.
The drinkability was decent for a Belgian Strong Pale Ale.
On the Label: 2009.
Pale Ale Re-Fermented with Brettanomyces. 7% Alcohol By Volume, 650 ml – 1 Pint 6 Fl OZ. Develops in the Bottle For Up To 5 Years. Contains Live Yeast. Sediment May Form.
From their website:
Brewer’s Notes:
Wild in character, with a slightly fruity aroma and a spicy yeast flavor that is as unique as it is satisfying – Matilda is an intriguing choice for beer and wine lovers alike. Dry and quenching, it’s the perfect accompaniment at the dining table or for casually socializing at the bar.
Recipe Information:
Style: Belgian Style Pale Ale
Alcohol by Volume: 7%
International Bitterness Units: 32
Color: Golden Sunrise
Hops: Styrian, Saaz
Malts: 2-Row, Caramel
Serving Suggestions:
Preferred Glass: Wide Mouth Glass
Food Pairings: Matilda pairs with many foods. Its spicy yeast flavors complement fresh mussels and contrast rich pork belly.
Cheese Pairings: Camembert, Washed Rind Cheeses
Cellaring Notes: Develops in the bottle for up to 5 years
Availability:
Year Round
Bottles: 4pks, 650mL
Draft: 1/6 & 1/2bbl
Great American Beer Festival Recognition:
Judging Category: Belgian and French Style Ale
2005: Gold Medal
World Beer Cup Recognition:
Judging Category: Belgian and French Style Ale
2008: Silver Medal
2006: Silver Medal
World Beer Championships Recognition:
Judging Category: Belgian Style Amber Ale
2011: Gold Medal
Beer Drinker Reviews:
