The best quality of American microbrewers is adaptability. Well, that and a fearlessness to try unorthodox things. They’re not afraid to make shitty copies of foreign beer styles over and over again until they get it right.

When it comes to Abbey ales, many have gotten it right. I won’t say that the beers of Ommegang, Unibroue and other North American brewers are on par with their Flemish exemplars, but they’ve still gotten pretty darn good.

If you live in Rochester, come on down to Monty’s Korner, on the corner of East Avenue and Alexander Street, tonight at 7:30 for a free tasting and (mercifully brief) discussion of these fine heritage beers.