How to Choose Belgian Beer: Trappist, Lambic & Strong Ale
Belgian beer has a habit of catching people out. A bottle no bigger than a soft drink can holds more alcohol than a glass of wine, and it can taste of fruitcake, fresh cherries or dry champagne rather than anything on a standard bar tap. That is exactly why it is worth exploring. Once you know the three big families, choosing gets simple, and a bottle like Chimay Bleu at £5.15 shows just how much flavour 330ml can hold. This guide explains what Trappist, lambic and strong ale actually mean, which Belgian breweries to look for, and what to buy first. It draws on the Belgian range stocked by The Fine Wine Company, an independent merchant at 119 High Street, Portobello, Edinburgh. What makes Belgian beer different? Belgian brewing is led by yeast. Instead of chasing hop bitterness, most Belgian breweries let their house yeast create the flavour, which is where the pear, banana, clove and peppery spice notes come from. Two other habits set it apart. Many beers are bottle-conditione...