Belgian Ale

Let's talk about the complex, wine-like Belgian Dark Strong Ales. As the name implies, these are stronger Belgian ales with deep, dark fruit flavors and higher alcohol - usually 8-11% ABV. You'll notice lush flavors of raisin, plum, cherry and fig complemented by warming alcohol, spicy yeast notes, and earthy European hops. Despite their strength, the body remains light and drinkable.

Ah, Strong Belgian Ales! What a delightfully tasty style of beer. These complex and malty brews pack quite the alcoholic punch, perfect for slowly sipping and savoring on a cozy evening. The reddish-brown color and creamy foam hints at the rich caramel and toffee flavors within. You'll notice fruity esters like raisin, plum, or banana as well as spicy phenols like clove or pepper. Some have a slight sourness that complements the sweet malts.

Hey beer enthusiasts! Have you ever tried a Belgian Tripel? These strong, golden ales are known for their complex flavors and high alcohol content. Imagine a beer that combines fruity, spicy, and malty notes in a harmonious blend. Belgian Tripels are perfect for savoring slowly and appreciating their intricate profiles. Let’s dive into the world of Belgian Tripels and discover what makes them so special.

Let’s chat about one of my favorite styles – the rustic, delightful Saison. Saisons were originally brewed in Wallonia, Belgium as seasonal “farmhouse” ales for summertime refreshment. With their dry, spicy flavors, Saisons are perfect for warmer weather sipping. You’ll immediately notice the unique peppery, fruity flavors from the Belgian yeast. Saisons only have subtle maltiness and light hopping, allowing the yeast to shine. ABV ranges from 5-8%.

Let's talk Belgian Blond Ales - perfect brews for easy drinking. As the name suggests, these are pale golden beers that showcase the delicate spicy flavors of Belgian yeast. They are lightly hopped and have a modest alcohol content - usually around 6-7.5% ABV. You'll notice aromas and flavors of pepper, lemon, apple, honey, and wheat. Some grassy, floral hops bring balance. The body is light and crisp, while still having nice Belgian character.

Let’s chat about the delightful hybrid that is Belgian IPAs. As the name hints, these beers blend the hoppy bitterness of an American IPA with the fruity, spicy yeast flavors of a Belgian Ale. It’s the best of both worlds! Like regular IPAs, Belgian versions feature intense hoppy notes of citrus, tropical fruit, pine, and stone fruit. But the dry, peppery Belgian yeast puts a distinct twist on the classic IPA flavor profile. There are also subtle malt notes.

Belgian dark strong ale brewed by Brouwerij Van Steenberge in Ertvelde, Belgium.

How To Brew Belgian Pale Ale: True Monk Approved Belgian-Style Ale with Authentic Ingredients Belgian Pale Ale is an easy drinking beer, somewhat fruity, and a little less aggressive in flavor than any other Belgian beer. This style has a malt backbone that consists of flavors such as biscuity, light-toast, and honey-like or carmel. While the hop bitterness is there to balance the malt sweetness, it is not too overwhelming.

Chimay blue label Belgian ale. Super delicious.

How To Brew Belgian Strong Golden Ale: High ABV and Complex Flavor Jewel of Belgian Belgian Strong Golden Ale on the surface looks innocent and rather unassuming. Pale in color, appealing aromas, well carbonated, and drinkable until its last sip. Nevertheless, the Belgian Strong Golden Ale can sneak up on you and make you re-think what you have thought about Belgian beers all along.