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Top-Rated Belgian Beers to Try

Belgian beer is renowned for its rich history, diverse flavors, and complex brewing techniques. For many beer enthusiasts, Belgium is the equivalent of heaven. In this blog post, we will explore some of the finest Belgian beers that have garnered global acclaim. From the iconic Orval to the complex Westmalle Tripel, each beer offers a unique taste experience. We’ll delve into the history and distinct characteristics of each beer, offering insights into why they stand out in the world of beer. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or a curious newcomer, join us as we uncover the top-rated Belgian beers you simply must try.

History and Overview of Belgian Beer

Belgium’s beer history dates back centuries, tightly woven with its cultural and monastic roots. The country boasts over a thousand different beer varieties produced by around 180 breweries, ranging from small-scale family operations to large-scale commercial enterprises. Belgian beers are often characterized by their high fermentation yields, unique yeasts, and a wide variety of ingredients.

The influence of Trappist monks cannot be overlooked in the shaping of Belgian beer. Today, Belgium remains home to six of the world’s twelve Trappist breweries. These monasteries produce beer not primarily as a commercial venture, but to sustain the communal lives of monks and fund charitable works. As a result, Belgian beers embrace the concept of craftsmanship, marrying tradition with innovation.

Here are the Top 10 Best Belgian Beers:

Orval

Orval is a unique Trappist beer brewed within the walls of Orval Abbey, located in the Gaume region of Belgium. Known for its slightly sour and tangy flavor combined with a hint of bitterness, Orval is distinct in its blending of different brewing techniques. It undergoes a complex brewing process involving dry-hopping and bottle-conditioning, which contributes to its distinctive taste and aroma.

The beer’s amber hue and citrus scent make it a sensory delight, and its history adds an element of intrigue. Orval remains a favorite among both casual drinkers and critics, celebrated for its complexity and elegance. The beer pairs well with a variety of foods, making it a versatile choice for different dining experiences.

Tripel Karmeliet

Tripel Karmeliet is a nod to the historical recipes of the 17th-century Carmelite Monks. This golden ale is brewed using three grains: wheat, oats, and barley, which impart a creamy yet dry character. Its vibrant golden color and impressive, long-lasting head are hallmarks of this popular brew.

The beer exudes aromas of banana, vanilla, and citrus, contributing to its refreshing profile. On the palate, it offers a delicate balance between sweetness and bitterness, with a spicy and slightly herbal finish. Tripel Karmeliet has become a beloved staple in many Belgian beer lineups, cherished for its rich heritage and delightful taste.

Chimay Bleue

Chimay Bleue, also known as Chimay Blue or Grand Reserve, is a strong, dark Belgian ale created by the Trappist monks at Scourmont Abbey. This flavorful brew is known for its rich bouquet of rye, burnt sugar, and chocolate aromas, providing a warming, comforting drinking experience.

The beer’s deep reddish-brown color and creamy head make it as visually appealing as it is flavorful. With aging, Chimay Bleue develops a smooth, complex character. Many enthusiasts enjoy cellaring this beer, as it ages gracefully and brings forth a more profound depth of flavor over time.

Delirium Tremens

Delirium Tremens is a strong Belgian pale ale recognized for its bold character and distinctive pink elephant branding. Hailing from Brouwerij Huyghe, this beer delights the senses with its vibrant golden hue and rich, full body. The beer’s spicy yeast notes and slight citrus undertones lend a refreshing profile.

On tasting, Delirium Tremens delivers a robust, multi-layered experience; the initial sweetness gives way to hints of peppery spice and a clean, dry finish. Its amusing name and eye-catching packaging make it a popular choice for those seeking both novelty and quality in their beer selection.

Boon Kriek

Boon Kriek is a traditional lambic beer infused with cherries during the maturation process, giving it a distinctively sweet-and-tart flavor profile. Brewed by the Boon Brewery, this beer captures the essence of Belgian fruit beers, offering a deep red color and fragrant cherry aroma.

The taste is complex yet approachable, with a perfect balance of cherry sweetness and lambic sourness. A lovely sparkling carbonation gives Boon Kriek an effervescent quality that enlivens the palate. Ideal as a dessert beer or companion to rich dishes, it highlights the versatility and vibrant flavors of Belgian brewing techniques.

Westmalle Tripel

Westmalle Tripel, often referred to as the “mother of all tripels,” is a true gem in the catalog of Belgian beers. Brewed by the Trappist monks of Westmalle Abbey, it features a pale golden color, thick creamy head, and remarkable depth of flavor from the use of traditional brewing methods.

Characteristic notes of apple, pear, and spices dominate the aroma and palate, making it a richly rewarding brew. It’s famed for its long, smooth finish seeded with a light bitterness. Westmalle Tripel is often celebrated as one of the finest examples of Belgian brewing tradition, winning over a multitude of beer connoisseurs around the world.

Cantillon Gueuze

Cantillon Gueuze is a blend of one-, two-, and three-year-old lambics, resulting in a highly intricate beer known for its sour and earthy tones. Brewed following artisanal methods at the Cantillon Brewery, this gueuze is celebrated for its authenticity and adherence to historical brewing processes.

The offering is refreshing, with a bright, tangy sharpness and balancing funkiness. Its complexity makes it an acquired taste, but for fans, it embodies the true essence of Belgian lambics. Often referred to as the ‘Champagne of Belgium,’ it’s excellent for special occasions and pairs well with soft cheeses.

XX Bitter

XX Bitter from the De Ranke Brewery stands apart as one of the hoppiest beers within the Belgian brewing repertoire. This golden beer is praised for its strong hop bitterness and clean, dry finish, challenging the sweeter norms typically associated with Belgian brews.

The aromas carry herbal and floral yeast notes that accentuate its robust hop character. For those appreciating an assertive hop presence, balanced with a light malt backbone, XX Bitter offers an invigorating experience. It has a loyal following among hop enthusiasts looking for something uniquely Belgian.

Duvel

Duvel, a Belgian strong pale ale from the Duvel Moortgat Brewery, is renowned worldwide for its superb craftsmanship and distinctive taste. It boasts a brilliant, golden color and dense, creamy head, promising an inviting first impression.

Aroma notes of pear, apple, and subtle spices enhance its signature smoothness and delicate bitterness. The beer exhibits exemplary balance, with complex flavors of hops, malt, and yeast weaving an intricate tapestry on the palate. Duvel’s distinctive character has led to its status as a benchmark for Belgian-style beers.

Paix Dieu

Paix Dieu is a traditional Belgian Abbey beer brewed exclusively during the full moon, lending it an air of mystique and exclusivity. Crafted with natural ingredients at the Brasserie Caulier, this tripel showcases a warm golden color and impressive aromatic complexity.

The profile is rich with notes of malt sweetness, spices, and a subtle alcoholic warmth. This sophisticated beer captures the power of tradition and the innovative spirit of Belgian brewing, appealing to those seeking an authentic yet distinctive beer journey. Its limited availability further adds to its unique appeal, drawing interest from beer enthusiasts eager to explore the mystical side of Belgian brewing.

Continuer la Lecture

Embracing the world of Belgian beer means diving deeper into its vast array of styles and flavors. Beyond the top ten we’ve explored, Belgium’s rich brewing heritage offers countless more delights. The continuous exploration of Belgian beers can lead to discovering hidden gems and understanding cultural influences in the brewing process.

As the global interest in craft beer continues to grow, Belgian brewers remain at the forefront, marrying time-honored traditions with contemporary innovations. Future endeavours may see collaborations that push the boundaries of flavor, as well as the rise of new brewing techniques influenced by sustainable practices. The future of Belgian beer promises to be as rich and exciting as its storied past.

Leave a Comment

We’d love to hear about your experiences with Belgian beer! Which ones have you tried, and which are on your must-try list? Feel free to leave a comment below to share your thoughts, suggestions, and any other Belgian beers you believe deserve a mention. Your insights could inspire fellow readers to discover their next Belgian beer favorite!

Future Prospects

Beer	Description	Notable Characteristics
Orval	Unique Trappist beer with a tangy and bitter flavor.	Complex brewing, dry-hopping, bottle-conditioning.
Tripel Karmeliet	Golden ale brewed with three grains.	Citrus, vanilla aroma, creamy profile.
Chimay Bleue	Strong, dark Trappist ale.	Rich bouquet, ideal for cellaring.
Delirium Tremens	Belgian pale ale with bold character.	Spicy yeasty notes, citrus undertones.
Boon Kriek	Cherry-infused traditional lambic beer.	Sweet-and-tart profile, deep red color.
Westmalle Tripel	Iconic tripel known for its depth of flavor.	Spicy, fruity aromas, creamy texture.
Cantillon Gueuze	Blend of aged lambics.	Sour, earthy tones, ‘Champagne of Belgium’.
XX Bitter	Hoppy beer with a strong bitter profile.	Herbal, floral aromas, assertive hops.
Duvel	Renowned Belgian strong pale ale.	Complex balance of hops, malt, yeast.
Paix Dieu	Abbey beer brewed during the full moon.	Malt sweetness, spices, limited availability.

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