As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to the question: Is Belgian Moon the same as Blue Moon?
Belgian Moon is the Canadian version of Blue Moon, a popular Belgian-style witbier. The two beers have a very similar recipe and taste profile, with slight variations due to regional preferences and brewing practices. However, it's important to note that there have been some changes in the branding and packaging of Belgian Moon over the years.
In 2010, Blue Moon introduced a revamped and renamed set of seasonal beers, starting with the Winter Abbey Ale. This rebranding effort aimed to reflect the evolving nature of the beer industry and cater to changing consumer preferences. As part of this initiative, Blue Moon also released a winter seasonal ale called Belgian Moon, which was marketed as a Belgian-style witbier with a twist.
Canadian beer drinkers were introduced to Belgian Moon in 2015, when it was launched in Canada with packaging very similar to the Blue Moon labeling found in the United States. The name change was likely made to better resonate with Canadian consumers and differentiate the beer from other witbiers available in the market.
In terms of taste and quality, Belgian Moon and Blue Moon are very similar. Both beers are brewed with ingredients like orange peel, coriander, and wheat, resulting in a refreshing and citrusy flavor profile. The brewing process and recipe are likely kept consistent across both versions to maintain the signature characteristics of the beer.
However, it's worth mentioning that there might be subtle differences in the brewing process and ingredients used to adapt the beer to local preferences and regulations. These variations can arise due to factors such as water composition, ingredient availability, and regional brewing techniques. Additionally, breweries sometimes make slight adjustments to their recipes to cater to specific markets or consumer preferences.
Having personally tasted both Belgian Moon and Blue Moon, I can attest to their similarities in terms of flavor and overall experience. The beers share the same refreshing and citrus-forward characteristics that are characteristic of a Belgian-style witbier. Whether you're enjoying a pint of Belgian Moon in Canada or Blue Moon in the United States, you can expect a similar taste experience.
Belgian Moon is essentially the Canadian version of Blue Moon. Both beers share a similar recipe and flavor profile, with slight variations to cater to regional preferences. The name change from Belgian Moon to Blue Moon in 2022 might have been a strategic decision to align the branding globally and maintain consistency across markets. Whether you encounter Belgian Moon or Blue Moon, you can expect a delicious Belgian-style witbier with a refreshing citrus twist.