Belgium is renowned for its rich beer culture and is often considered the pinnacle of beer countries. With a wide range of unique beer styles and a deep-rooted tradition of brewing, Belgium offers beer enthusiasts a plethora of options to explore.
One of the most iconic Belgian beers is Duvel, an archetypal Belgian blonde ale. With its distinctively fruity and spicy flavors, Duvel has gained popularity both within Belgium and internationally. It is often regarded as a must-try beer for anyone venturing into Belgian brews.
While Duvel holds a significant place in the Belgian beer scene, it is interesting to note that traditional lagers dominate the market. Stella Artois, a well-known Belgian beer globally, only holds an 8% share in its home country. Instead, Jupiler, a Belgian lager, commands a staggering 40% market share.
For those looking to delve further into the world of Belgian beers, there are numerous options to try. Here is a list of 20 Belgian beers that should be on every beer enthusiast's radar:
1. Bush Beer (7.5% and 12%): This strong Belgian beer comes in two variations and offers a robust flavor profile.
2. Brugse Straffe Hendrik (Blond 6.5%, Bruin 8.5%): This brewery in Bruges produces both a blond and a brown beer, each with its own unique character.
3. Chimay (red top 7%, blue top 9%): Chimay is a Trappist brewery known for its exceptional beers, including the popular Chimay Red and Chimay Blue.
4. La Chouffe (8%): La Chouffe is a Belgian strong ale that boasts a refreshing and fruity taste.
5. Corsendonk Pater Noster (5.6%): This Belgian abbey beer offers a balanced flavor with hints of caramel and spices.
6. Gouden Carolus (8%): Gouden Carolus is a well-regarded Belgian beer brand known for its rich and complex flavors.
7. Delirium Tremens (9%): Recognizable by its distinctive pink elephant logo, Delirium Tremens is a strong and flavorful Belgian ale.
8. De Koninck (5%): De Koninck is a traditional Belgian beer from Antwerp, known for its smooth and malty taste.
These are just a few examples of the diverse range of Belgian beers available. Each beer has its own unique characteristics, flavors, and brewing techniques that contribute to the rich tapestry of Belgian brewing.
Exploring Belgian beers allows beer enthusiasts to uncover a world of flavors, from fruity and spicy ales to malty and robust lagers. Belgian beers are often crafted with a meticulous attention to detail, using traditional brewing methods that have been passed down through generations.
Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or just beginning your journey into the world of beer, Belgian beers offer a wealth of options to satisfy any palate. So raise a glass and immerse yourself in the delightful world of Belgian brewing. Cheers!
What Is The Most Popular Beer In Belgium?
The most popular beer in Belgium is Duvel. It is widely recognized as the archetypal Belgian blonde ale and is highly regarded both within the country and internationally. Duvel is known for its distinctive flavor profile, which combines notes of fruity esters, spicy yeast, and a pleasant hop bitterness. It is a top-fermented beer that undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle, resulting in a complex and effervescent brew.
Duvel is not only popular among locals but has also gained a strong following worldwide. It is exported to over 60 countries, making it one of Belgium's most successful beer exports. The beer's popularity can be attributed to its exceptional quality and craftsmanship, as well as its iconic branding and packaging.
Here are some key features of Duvel:
– Style: Belgian blonde ale
– Flavor profile: Fruity esters, spicy yeast, hop bitterness
– Fermentation: Top-fermented with secondary fermentation in the bottle
– International reach: Exported to over 60 countries
– Branding: Recognizable and iconic packaging
Duvel is the most popular beer in Belgium, known for its exceptional quality, distinct flavor profile, and international success.
Conclusion
Belgium is undoubtedly a haven for beer lovers with its vast variety of top-quality brews. From the classic Belgian blonde ales like Duvel, to the popular lagers such as Jupiler and Stella Artois, Belgium offers something for every beer connoisseur.
However, the true gems of Belgian beer lie in its traditional and unique styles. Be sure to try the rich and complex Bush Beer, available in both 7.5% and 12% variants, as well as the Belgian strong ales like Brugse Straffe Hendrik (Blond 6.5% and Bruin 8.5%) and Chimay (red top 7% and blue top 9%).
For those seeking a more whimsical experience, La Chouffe with its 8% ABV and quirky gnome mascot, or the delightfully refreshing Delirium Tremens at 9% ABV, are must-try options.
If you prefer a lighter option, the Gouden Carolus with its 8% ABV or the Corsendonk Pater Noster at 5.6% ABV offer a more balanced and approachable flavor profile.
Lastly, don't miss out on De Koninck, a quintessential Belgian beer with its crisp and malty taste at 5% ABV.
Belgium's reputation as the apex of the best beer countries in the world is well-deserved. With its diverse range of beer styles and a deeply-embedded heritage of traditional beer production, Belgium truly offers a beer-drinking experience like no other. So, raise a glass and savor the flavors of these top Belgian beers – you won't be disappointed.
