Belgian Trappist orders of monks divide their days between agricultural labor and prayer. Since the Middle Ages Trappist monasteries have transformed their harvests of grain and spices into world class beers. Beer lovers benefit from the monks’ use of all-natural, possibly holy, ingredients and time tested brewing techniques. Although there are only seven official Trappist breweries in operation, many monasteries have lent their names and recipes to larger, more modern brewing companies that produce what are known as Abbey ales.
Pale Belgian ales, sometimes called blondes, are normally 6-8%ABV (alcohol by volume), meaning most can be found in the high octane beer section of your favorite liquor store.
The proper glassware is important. At a Belgian pub one could expect their brew served in glasses crafted and ornately labeled specifically for that beer, at just the right temperature (about 50-55 degrees), from corked bottles. If you don’t have the proper glass then a brandy snifter or an oversize red wine goblet will do the job. Many Belgian ales are also bottle-conditioned meaning there is yeast in the bottom of the bottle. Pour carefully, or swirl it around and drink it down-it’s a great source of flavor and protein.
Grimbergen Blonde 2 Pulses
From Belgium, this Abbey ale smells of yeast and pineapple with some metallic notes. Simple flavors of grain and nectarine mingle with a good dose of lemony hops to create a dry finish. It’s ok if you’re looking for something light, yet mildly exotic.
Affligem Blonde 3 Pulses
Another Abbey ale, Affligem offers aromas of honey, butterscotch, allspice and yeast. Sweet nectarine fruit flavors precede a lightly-dried, spicy, coriander finish. Rich and creamy without being too heavy, Affligem is a great beer although a bit expensive.
Duvel 4 Pulses
Belgian for “Devil,” Duvel hails from Belgium and boasts an unholy 8.5% ABV. Apple, citrus, yeast and spice fragrances lead to rich tastes of baked peaches together with spicy saaz hops. Well-balanced and juicy, some consider this the best example of what Belgium has to offer.
Koningshoeven Blonde 4 Pulses
Using their traditional recipes, an order of Trappist monks in the Netherlands hand-crafts each one of these brews and their hard work pays off. A big nose full of yeast hides layers of peaches, apricot and nutmeg. Coriander and dried apple give way to lemon and spice on the finish. Smooth, juicy and simply delicious-proving once again that monks know how to make great beer.
Don de Dieu 5 Pulses
Canada’s Unibroue crafts many Belgian styled beers, but among their best is surely the aptly titled Don de Dieu, French for “Gift of God.” Big aromas of pineapple, clove and a healthy dose of yeast greet the nose. On the palate, rich flavors of peaches and cream are dotted with coriander and yeast. Lots of carbonation fuels this excellent brew.
Pranqster 3 Pulses
From California’s North Coast Brewing Co., Pranqster appeals with its aromas of orange peel, cloves and yeast. Amidst the rich flavor of peaches and grain lurk cardamom, coriander and a hop bite. Light and tasty, this is a great for anyone trying the style for the first time.
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