Belgian Dubbel is a classic beer style that has been enjoyed for centuries. This dark, malty beer has a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other styles of beer, and it is one of the most popular beers brewed in Belgium. In this guide, we will explore the history and production of Belgian Dubbel, its distinctive flavor profile, as well as the different varieties of this delicious beer style.
History and Production of Belgian Dubbel Beer
Belgian Dubbel is believed to have originated in the mid-19th century at the Trappist Abbey of Westmalle. The monks at this abbey developed a recipe for a dark ale that had an intense malty character and a slightly higher alcohol content than traditional ales. This recipe was refined over time, and eventually became known as Belgian Dubbel.
This beer is brewed with pale malt and dark roasted malts, which give it its characteristic dark color and deep malt flavors. Hops are used sparingly to add bitterness without overpowering the malt characters. Belgian yeast strains are also used during fermentation to impart fruity esters into the beer, along with some spicy or phenolic notes. Many Belgian brewers also age their dubbels in oak barrels to add additional complexity to their beers.
The Flavor Profile of Belgian Dubbel Beer
Belgian Dubbels have a deep, malty flavor with hints of caramel, chocolate, bread crusts, nuts, plums, raisins, figs and other dark fruits. These beers also tend to have some spicy or phenolic notes from the yeast strains used during fermentation. The alcohol content is usually fairly moderate at around 6-8% ABV.
Varieties of Belgian Style Dubbel Beer
There are many different varieties of Belgian Style Dubbels available today ranging from fruity session ales to oak-aged strong ales with complex flavors and aromas. Some popular examples include Westmalle Tripel (a strong version), La Trappe Dubbel (a session strength version) and Chimay Grand Reserve (an oak-aged version).
Belgian Style Dubbels offer an array of complex flavors and aromas that make them highly sought after among craft beer lovers everywhere. With so many different varieties available today it's easy to find one that suits your taste buds perfectly! Whether you're looking for a session strength ale or something more robust like an oak aged version – there's something for everyone when it comes to enjoying these delicious brews!
What Does A Belgian Dubbel Taste Like?
A Belgian Dubbel has a malty sweetness and can have cocoa and caramel aromas and flavors. Hop bitterness is medium-low to medium. Yeast-generated fruity esters (especially banana) can be apparent.
What Is Belgian Style Abbey Ale?
Belgian style abbey ales are a type of strong dark ale that intensifies the character of the classic dubbel. These beers are typically brewed with more alcohol and fruit character, and they usually have ABVs of 8% to 9.5%. When well brewed, Belgian style abbey ales can make fine matches to lamb and game meats.
BELGIAN ABBEY DUBBEL Home Brewing 7-Minute Beer Recipe
What's The Difference Between A Dubbel And A Tripel?
Dubbels are typically sweeter and maltier than tripels, which are characterized by their higher bitterness and alcohol content. Dubbels are oftn brewed with a Belgian candi sugar, which gives them their characteristic dark color and sweet flavor. Tripels are brewed with more hops, which contributes to their bitterness and also to their higher alcohol content.
Is Dubbel A Brown Ale?
Yes, dubbel is a type of brown ale. It is typically a strong beer, with 6-8% alcohol by volume. It has a pronounced fruitiness and cereal character, as well as a moderate level of bitterness. Some notable examples of dubbel beers include Chimay Première (Red), Koningshoeven/La Trappe Dubbel, and Achel 8 Bruin.
Why Is It Called A Dubbel?
The “lowest” of the number-sounding Belgian beer names, created by Belgian monks at the Westmalle Monastery in between the late 19th and early 20th century (they brewed a stronger version of what they drank at the abbey, hnce “dubbel,” or “double,” and the rest is history).
Is Belgian Dubbel A Lager?
No, Belgian Dubbel is an ale.
How Do You Pronounce Dubbel?
The dubbel is a style of beer that was originally brewed by monks in Belgium. The name dubbel comes from the fact that these beers are typically twice as strong as a typical Belgian ale. The dubbel is a dark, malty, and slightly sweet beer that usually weighs in at around 7% ABV.
When pronouncing the dubbel, it's important to remember that the emphasis is on the first syllable, not the second. So, it should be pronounced “dub-el” rater than “dub-bull.”
What Does Abbey Beer Taste Like?
Abbey beers are a type of Belgian beer that are brewed according to the rules of the Trappist order. They are oftn a dark brown or amber colour and full-bodied with complex, sweet caramel flavours and hints of soft fruits and spices.
What Kind Of Beer Is Abbey Ale?
Abbey Ale is a Trappist-style dubbel that is full-bodied and pours a deep burgundy color with a fluffy head. It has enchanting aromas of licorice root, orange peel, and spices.
