Belgian Flavors

May 19, 2012

Twelve full-flavored Belgian ales available in the United States.

Back to Belgian Flavors »
Back to Northern Renaissance »

Juicy, yeasty, hoppy, and potent--an exemplary Belgian strong ale--but with a pale hue, brilliant white head, and crispness that make it seem lighter than it is.Todd Coleman

A dark, delectable, malty beer from one of Belgium's oldest Trappist breweries yields notes of raisins, nuts, fudge, and anise, resolving in a roasty dryness.Todd Coleman

3 Fonteinen's creamy springtime lambic blend smells of citrus and barnyard, and its kumquat acidity primes the palate for dining.Todd Coleman

A strong ale from a newer beer maker brewed with coriander, cardamom, and ginger, which add a bittersweet depth to other tastes: smoke, tang, and licorice.Todd Coleman

A classic Wallonian farmhouse ale with rich malt aroma and creamy texture balanced by pineapple, white pepper, and a dry, hoppy finish.Todd Coleman

A fruity and refreshing blonde ale with a gently bitter, floral finish from organic hops grown by its farmstead brewer.Todd Coleman

Tart, fragrant, and refreshing, it smells and tastes of the fresh raspberries with which this fruit lambic is cask-aged.Todd Coleman

A ruddy brew with a red currant and apple tang offset by sweet, mellow wood, it's the grandaddy of Flemish sour ales; it's great with seafood.Todd Coleman

A strong ale that delivers a complex melange of sherrylike flavors: dried figs and dates, a lovely citric quality, and an oaky potency.Todd Coleman

From the heart of West Flanders' hops-growing region, it smells of fresh-baked dinner rolls but has a zesty, spicy flavor from copious hops.Todd Coleman

A dark, strong ale made with plenty of malt, that's thick and rich yet smooth, with a lively effervescence, banana and toffee flavors, and a warm, earthy kicker.Todd Coleman

It announces its hops, but not in a brash way; honey and fruit salad notes add balancing tang and sweetness, which lend this pale ale approachability.Todd Coleman

Latest

Our 50 Best Shrimp Recipes Will Turn You Into a Seafood Master

Our 45 Best Indian Recipes

Our Best Skillet Recipes

Our Favorite Southern Food

Our 24 Best Savory Pies

Pasta Salad Recipes and Potato Salad Recipes

The Elusive Story of the Bread-and-Butter Pickle Sandwich

23 Easy Green Salads

Leave It to That Eccentric Genius Chef Patrick O’Connell to Serve Up Surprise and Delight Just When We Need It Most