The Prior was and is the leader of a smaller abbey community. He is the primo inter pares (the first among equals). Established abbeys had several off-shoots, smaller communities living on farms or settlements, sometimes far away from the original abbey for example in Northern and Eastern parts of Europe, later in the colonies, today in third world countries. With its 9% alc. by vol., this darker beer is certainly a triple ale with a bitter sweet taste. The hoppy characteristics of all the Van Eecke ales is prominently present.