Songbird Moderne is an 8.5% Belgian-style tripel from Brewery Songbird, based in Chiba, Japan. It’s part of their limited edition lineup and was first released on tap in October 2016 and then in bottled form in December 2016. Brewery Songbird managed to import some Wyeast Belgian yeast, the same strain that is used in the famed Westmalle Beer range. At the time of writing, Songbird Moderne can be found in bottle form only, and it’s unknown whether it will appear again in the future. Here’s hoping.
Potent when chilled, even more so when warmed up.
Songbird Moderne Aroma and Taste
Songbird Moderne poured out a deep hazy orange brown colour with some bubbly head – about a finger’s worth on top – though it didn’t last long. The head ended up being just a couple of bubbles here and there in the end. Songbird Moderne’s aroma started out being highly malty with it resembling a barley wine level of rich caramel aroma; however, when it had warmed up, it had warming hints of brandy, plums and raisins, along with a honey bread pudding like aroma to it. There was a slight sour edge to it – like Brewery Songbird had added some Brett to it too.
The alcohol – all 8.5% of it – didn’t come through initially as Songbird Moderne was chilled; however, when it had warmed up, it did come through just a tad. It had a mixture of flavours coming through – full of spices such as yuzu with hints of brown sugar too producing a slight roasted caramel edge to it. There was slight hint of honey to it as well, though all of the flavours were well balanced, it felt like a cacophony of noise until you focus on one or two of them. The aftertaste was warming and sticky, with a honey flavour being left behind.
Songbird Moderne The Bottom Line
For a first Belgian-style tripel, Brewery Songbird have hit the spot with Songbird Moderne – a definite purchase from us.
Where to Buy Songbird Moderne
Songbird Moderne can be bought online at the following places:
