The pronunciation of “tripel” is often a point of confusion and mispronunciation, with the most irksome being “treh-Pell” with emphasis on the “P.” As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that the correct way to pronounce it is the way we would naturally say it: “triple.”
Interestingly, some may argue that a Belgian accent may slightly alter the pronunciation to something closer to “tree-pull,” but it would never end up as “treh-Pell.” It's important to note that the pronunciation of “tripel” is not a matter of personal preference or interpretation; there is a correct and widely accepted way to say it.
I vividly recall a conversation with a fellow brewer here in Denver who summed it up perfectly. He said, “That's the pronunciation to use if you want to make every beer enthusiast cringe.” This humorous statement underscores the frustration many beer lovers feel when they come across the mispronunciation of “tripel.”
To further clarify, let's break down the correct pronunciation of “tripel.” The word is derived from the Dutch language, and in Dutch, the “ie” combination is typically pronounced as “ee.” Therefore, “tripel” should be pronounced as “triple” with a long “ee” sound.
As someone who is passionate about beer and the art of brewing, I find it essential to educate and inform others about proper terminology and pronunciation. It not only shows respect for the origins of the beer style but also helps maintain accuracy and clarity in discussions and conversations surrounding beer.
The correct way to pronounce “tripel” is simply “triple.” Avoid the irksome mispronunciation of “treh-Pell” and embrace the correct pronunciation to ensure effective communication and a shared understanding among beer enthusiasts.