Stella Artois
Introduction
Stella Artois beer is one of the most recognisable Belgian lager brands in the world, known for its crisp taste, distinctive chalice glass and long brewing heritage. First brewed in 1926 as a Christmas beer, Stella Artois beer quickly became popular and is now enjoyed in more than 80 countries. In the UK, Stella Artois lager is a familiar choice in pubs, bars and supermarkets, appreciated for its refreshing character and balanced flavour. In this guide, we explore the history of Stella Artois, the brewery behind it, and what makes this iconic Belgian-style lager so widely enjoyed.
About the Brewery
Stella Artois beer traces its origins back to the city of Leuven in Belgium. The brewery that would eventually produce Stella Artois dates back to 1366, when a brewery known as Den Hoorn was established.
In 1708, Sebastian Artois became the master brewer of the brewery and later purchased it, giving rise to the Artois name that remains part of the brand today.
The beer Stella Artois lager was first brewed in 1926 as a seasonal Christmas beer. The name “Stella”, meaning star in Latin, reflected the festive nature of the original brew. Due to its popularity, it soon became a permanent product.
Today, Stella Artois is part of the global brewing company Anheuser‑Busch InBev, one of the largest brewing groups in the world. The brand is brewed and distributed internationally, including large-scale production for the UK market.
What Type of Beer Is Stella Artois?
Stella Artois is a pale lager, brewed using traditional bottom-fermentation methods. The style produces a golden beer with a clean, crisp taste and moderate bitterness.
Some of the most common Stella Artois beers include:
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- Stella Artois Lager
The classic Stella Artois beer, known for its golden colour, crisp finish and distinctive European lager character. - Stella Artois Unfiltered
A naturally cloudy version of the lager that retains more yeast and flavour, offering a slightly fuller body and softer texture. - Stella Artois 0.0
An alcohol-free version that aims to replicate the refreshing taste of the original beer. - Stella Artois Gluten Free
A gluten-free version of the lager designed for drinkers avoiding gluten while still enjoying the familiar Stella flavour.
- Stella Artois Lager
These variations help ensure the Stella Artois range appeals to a wide variety of beer drinkers.
