Belgian and Trappist Ale

Introduction

Belgian and Trappist beer is renowned worldwide for their rich flavours, complexity, and historical significance. Originating from Belgium, these ales are crafted with traditional methods that have been refined over centuries, resulting in a wide variety of styles, from fruity and spicy dubbels to strong, malty quadrupels.

Trappist ales, brewed by monks within the walls of Trappist monasteries, are particularly revered for their depth of flavour and authenticity, adhering to strict brewing standards. Available in many UK pubs and specialised shops, Belgian and Trappist ales offer a unique tasting experience that reflects the artistry and heritage of Belgian brewing.

Belgian and Trappist Ale

Belgian ale is a type of beer that is brewed with top fermenting yeast. This gives the beer a fruity flavour and a higher alcohol content. The most popular Belgian ales are Duvel and Chimay.

Trappist beer is a type of beer that is brewed by monks in monasteries. The most famous Trappist beers are Chimay, Orval, and Westmalle. These beers are known for their complex flavour and high quality.

What is Trappist Beer?

Trappist beer is a type of beer brewed by Trappist monks. There are only 11 Trappist breweries in the world, 6 of which are located in Belgium. The other 5 Trappist breweries are located in the Netherlands, Austria, United States and Italy.

Trappist beer is characterised by its strong flavour and high alcohol content. The alcohol content of Trappist beer ranges from 6% to 10%. Most Trappist beers are dark brown or black in colour.

The taste of Trappist beer is often described as being similar to that of wine or brandy due to its high alcohol content. Trappist beer pairs well with food such as cheese, ham and chocolate desserts.

Bestseller No. 2
Tynt Meadow English Trappist Ale Bottles 12 x 33cl
Tynt Meadow English Trappist Ale Bottles 12 x 33cl
The brothers have brewed a dark ale imbued with English sensibility; UK's only Trappist beer
£32.64 Amazon Prime

Colour & Aroma of Belgian & Trappist Craft Beer

When it comes to colour, Belgium and Trappist craft beer can range from pale to dark, depending on the style. Aromas are also varied, but some common ones include fruits, spices, and chocolate.

Belgian beers often have a complex flavour profile due to the use of different yeast strains and unique brewing techniques. The country is home to a variety of beer styles, including Lambic, which is fermented with wild yeast, and fruit-flavoured lambics known as Faro. Belgian stouts are also popular, and these dark beers can be aged in barrels for added complexity.

Trappist breweries are located in monasteries across Belgium and produce some of the country's most iconic beers. These brews are typically rich and malty, with flavours of dark fruits and spices. The best-known Trappist beers include Chimay Blue, Orval, Rochefort 10, and Westmalle.

Bestseller No. 2
Trappistes Rochefort 10 Belgian Trappist Beer 330ml Bottles – 11.3% ABV (12)
Trappistes Rochefort 10 Belgian Trappist Beer 330ml Bottles – 11.3% ABV (12)
Really rich and complex, with a deep red/brown colour and thick head.
£64.95

What does Belgium & Trappist Craft Beer taste like?

There are a few Belgian Trappist breweries, each with their own unique flavour. For example, Chimay is known for its sweet, malty taste while Orval has a more bitter, hoppy flavour. Some other popular flavours of Belgian Trappist beers include Westmalle (fruity), Rochefort (spicy), and Achel (slightly sweet).

Characteristics of Trappist Craft Beer

Belgium is known for its delicious chocolate, intricate lace, and of course, its beer. While the country may be small, it packs a big punch when it comes to flavour, and when it comes to craft beer, Belgium is a true powerhouse.

The country is home to a number of world-renowned breweries, including Chimay, Orval, and Westmalle. These breweries are known for their Trappist beers, which are some of the best in the world.

So what makes Trappist beer so special? For starters, all Trappist beers are brewed by monks in accordance with strict guidelines. This results in a high quality product that is both flavourful and refreshing.

In addition to being well-made, Trappist beers are also incredibly diverse. There are a variety of styles to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that suits your taste. Whether you prefer a fruity witbier or a rich and malty Quadrupel, there’s a Trappist beer out there for you.

If you’re looking to explore the world of Belgian craft beer, start with one of these iconic Trappist breweries. You won’t be disappointed!

Carbonation content of Trappist Beer

The beers of Belgium are as diverse as the country itself, from light and refreshing blonde ales to rich and creamy stouts. And of course, there are the famous Belgian Trappist beers, which are some of the most sought-after beers in the world.

When it comes to carbonation content, Belgian beers run the gamut from highly carbonated to almost flat. In general, light-bodied Belgian beers like witbiers and saisons tend to be more highly carbonated than their fuller-bodied counterparts like Belgian strong ales and abbey-style beers. This is because high carbonation levels help balance out the lighter body of these styles.

As for Trappist beers, they usually sit somewhere in the middle when it comes to carbonation levels. This is because they are often bottle-conditioned, which means that they contain live yeast that continues to ferment in the bottle. This fermentation process gives Trappist beers their characteristic softness and roundness on the palate.

Popular brands of Trappist Craft Beer

Belgium is home to some of the world’s most popular beer brands, including Stella Artois, Jupiler, and Leffe. Belgium’s Trappist monks are also renowned for their craft beer, with brands like Chimay, Orval, and Westmalle.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Stella Artois Premium Lager Beer Can, 440ml (Pack of 18)
Stella Artois Premium Lager Beer Can, 440ml (Pack of 18)
The packaging of the item may differ from image as we may repackage to avoid damages; This pack contains 18x440ml cans of Stella Artois Premium Belgian Lager Beer, 4.6% ABV
£16.50 Amazon Prime
SaleBestseller No. 2
Stella Artois Premium Lager Beer Pint Cans 24 x 568 ml
Stella Artois Premium Lager Beer Pint Cans 24 x 568 ml
The packaging of the item may differ from image as we may repackage to avoid damages; This pack contains 24 x 568ml cans of Stella Artois, 4.6% ABV.
£37.14 Amazon Prime

Conclusion

Belgian and Trappist beers are some of the best in the world. They are known for their complex flavour profiles and unique brewing methods. While they can be expensive, they are definitely worth the price tag. There are many different options to choose from, so you can find the perfect beer for your taste.

Overall, Belgian and Trappist beers offer an unparalleled experience. With their intense flavour and variety of styles, these beers are sure to please any beer enthusiast. Whether you are looking for a light ale or a strong stout, there is something for everyone in the world of Belgian and Trappist beers.

No matter what you choose, Belgian and Trappist beers are sure to be a great addition to your beer collection. They offer a unique experience that cannot be found in any other style of beer.

Browse Trappist Craft Beer

Bestseller No. 3
Trappistes Rochefort 10 Belgian Trappist Beer 330ml Bottles – 11.3% ABV (12)
Trappistes Rochefort 10 Belgian Trappist Beer 330ml Bottles – 11.3% ABV (12)
Really rich and complex, with a deep red/brown colour and thick head.
£64.95
Bestseller No. 4
Westmalle Trappist Belgium Beer Glass
Westmalle Trappist Belgium Beer Glass
VARIATION: Westmalle's 33cl beer glass that makes drinking beer feel good.; Brewery: Westmalle Brewery
£11.49 Amazon Prime
SaleBestseller No. 5
Trappist Beer Travels: Inside the Breweries of the Monasteries
Trappist Beer Travels: Inside the Breweries of the Monasteries
Hardcover Book; Wallace, Caroline (Author); English (Publication Language); 256 Pages - 05/28/2023 (Publication Date) - Schiffer Publishing (Publisher)
£23.78 Amazon Prime
Bestseller No. 7
Westmalle Tripel Trappist Ale 12 Pack
Westmalle Tripel Trappist Ale 12 Pack
12 Pack of Westmalle Tripel Trappist Ale; Westmalle; 12 Pack; Craft Beer
£54.75
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