Beginning on Friday, September 18—just in time for the Papal Visit to Philadelphia—Iron Hill Chestnut Hill will release Pap-Ale, a religiously drinkable Abbey Dubbel brewed in honor of Pope Francis. Head Brewer Chris LaPierre loosely based the recipe on Patersbier, a Belgian-style session beer usually enjoyed by Trappist monks living in the monastery to commemorate festive occasions while honoring a monk’s simple life of prayer and personal austerity.
Pap-Ale will be a “session”-able mahogany ale with the sweetness of dark Belgian candi sugar, paired with the distinct aroma of plum and pear; the addition of Pope Francis’ favorite drink, Yerba Mate, will provide complementary herbal and earthy notes. Pap-Ale rings in at around 4.5% ABV, slightly higher than a standard Patersbier, but much lower than the average American’s expectation of a true Belgian beer.
Pap-Ale will be pouring exclusively at Iron Hill Chestnut Hill, available in limited quantities. Served in goblets, the 16 oz. draft pours will cost $6.25. LaPierre brewed four kegs for this festive occasion; please call the restaurant or check online to confirm availability. Pap-Ale will be released on Friday, September 18, at 5 p.m.
Find Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant at 8400 Germantown Ave. in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia; phone: (215) 948-5600.
Photo credits: Nina Lea Photography
