A white ale is indeed a type of wheat beer. In fact, the term “witbier” is often used interchangeably with white ale to refer to this particular style of beer.
Wheat beers are characterized by their use of wheat as a primary grain in the brewing process, along with malted barley. This gives them a distinct flavor and texture compared to beers made solely with barley. Witbier, specifically, is a Belgian-style wheat beer that originated in the town of Hoegaarden in the 14th century.
One of the key characteristics of witbier is its cloudiness when poured into a glass. This haze is a result of the suspended proteins and yeast in the beer, which gives it a unique appearance. While some may find this cloudiness off-putting, it is actually a desirable trait in this style of beer.
In terms of flavor, witbier is known for its refreshing and citrusy profile. It is traditionally brewed with the addition of orange peel and coriander, which impart a subtle fruity and spicy note to the beer. These ingredients are usually added during the brewing process, allowing their flavors to infuse into the beer.
However, it's worth noting that witbier can also include other spices to enhance its complexity. Some brewers may incorporate ingredients like peppercorn, ginger, or even chamomile to add a unique twist to their interpretation of the style. This experimentation with spices is one of the reasons why witbier can vary slightly in flavor from brewery to brewery.
In terms of appearance, a witbier typically falls somewhere between a pilsner and a heavy IPA in terms of color. It tends to have a pale golden hue, with a slight opaqueness due to the suspended yeast and proteins. This visual characteristic is another hallmark of the style.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and exploring various witbiers throughout my career. One of my most memorable experiences was visiting a small brewery in Belgium where they specialized in crafting traditional witbiers. The brewmaster explained to me the importance of using high-quality ingredients, particularly the orange peel and coriander, to achieve the authentic flavor profile of the beer. It was fascinating to see how these simple ingredients could transform a wheat beer into a refreshing and complex brew.
To summarize, a white ale is indeed a wheat beer, specifically referring to the Belgian-style witbier. It is characterized by its cloudiness, citrusy flavor profile, and the use of spices such as orange peel and coriander. Witbiers offer a refreshing alternative to other beer styles and are a delightful choice for those looking for a lighter, yet flavorful, brew.