Lindemans Brewery, also known as Brouwerij Lindemans, is a Belgian family brewery that specializes in producing a unique style of beer known as lambics. Lambics are a type of Belgian ale that differ from traditional ales in a few key ways.
Firstly, lambics are brewed using a significant portion of raw wheat in addition to malted barley. This inclusion of raw wheat contributes to the distinct flavor and texture of the beer. It adds a certain smoothness and lightness to the body, creating a refreshing drinking experience.
Another defining characteristic of lambics is the use of wild yeast for fermentation. Unlike most beers that rely on carefully cultivated strains of yeast, lambics are fermented using airborne wild yeast and bacteria. This spontaneous fermentation process takes place in open vats in the brewery's attic, allowing the wild yeast to naturally inoculate the beer.
The wild yeast and bacteria present in the ambient air around the brewery play a crucial role in shaping the flavor profile of lambics. They introduce complex and often funky flavors, including notes of tartness, acidity, and sometimes even a slight funkiness or barnyard character. These flavors can vary from batch to batch, adding an element of unpredictability and uniqueness to each beer.
Lindemans Brewery, in particular, is known for its expertise in crafting lambics. They have been brewing these traditional Belgian ales since 1822, and their experience and knowledge are evident in the quality of their beers.
One of Lindemans' most famous lambics is their Framboise, which is made with raspberries. This beer has a beautiful ruby color and a sweet, fruity aroma. The taste is a perfect balance of tartness from the wild yeast and the natural sweetness of the raspberries. It is a delightfully refreshing beer that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes.
Lindemans also produces other fruit lambics such as Kriek (cherry), Pêche (peach), and Cassis (blackcurrant). Each of these fruit lambics offers a unique flavor experience, with the natural sweetness and acidity of the fruits complementing the tartness of the base lambic.
In addition to their fruit lambics, Lindemans also produces traditional lambics such as Gueuze and Faro. Gueuze is a blend of young and old lambics, resulting in a complex and sour beer with a dry finish. Faro, on the other hand, is a sweetened lambic that is often infused with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg.
Lindemans Brewery is renowned for its lambics, which offer a distinct and enjoyable drinking experience. The combination of raw wheat, wild yeast fermentation, and the addition of fruits creates beers with a wide range of flavors, from tart and sour to sweet and fruity. These beers are perfect for those looking to explore the unique world of Belgian lambics and appreciate the craftsmanship and tradition behind them.