Here’s a piece about the difference between these two sometimes overlapping or identical styles:
The Difference between a Belgian Quad and a Belgian Dark Strong Ale
http://www.beersyndicate.com/blog/difference-belgian-quad-belgian-dark-strong-ale-bdsa/
Also discusses the difference between Trappist & Abbey beers, the origin of Dubbel, Tripel and Quads, and a few other interesting tidbits.
Cheers!
system
(system)
December 23, 2016, 8:49pm
2
It’s purely semantic in my opinion.
I’m not saying they’re right, but the Brewers Association seems to think there’s a difference between a Quad and a BDSA.
Then there’s the argument that the reason that the BJCP doesn’t really draw a distinction between the two styles is because the BJCP is just for little 'ol homebrewing competitions, and it’s really the Brewers Association that is more authoritative because the BA is used for real brewing competitions. Not my opinion, but I’ve seen it out there-
system
(system)
December 23, 2016, 9:14pm
5
Any difference between the two is purely a creation of stateside entities. There is zero difference between the two in a practical sense.
skatz
(Stevie)
December 23, 2016, 9:33pm
8
The BA has a direct interest in creating as many styles as possible. More styles equals more medals for more breweries.
system
(system)
December 23, 2016, 9:34pm
9
The term quadrupel would likely not even exist were it not for La Trappe.
It does not exist in Belgium.
system
(system)
December 23, 2016, 10:57pm
12
Right. Even BDSA is a creation of stateside organizations.
erockrph
(erockrph)
December 25, 2016, 4:58pm
13
Got a problem with the Dutch?
narcout
(narcout)
December 25, 2016, 6:07pm
14
If the brewing of La Trappe Quad required the creation of a new style and possibly mass confusion, it was worth it.
Not since we kicked them out in 1830.
“There’s only two things I hate in this world. People who are intolerant of other people’s cultures and the Dutch.” Famous Belgian actor…
beersk
(beersk)
December 28, 2016, 3:47pm
17
Ha! Good one…
“Dutch hater!” - Infamous Dutch actor