There is something truly exciting and mysterious about Belgian beers. Anyone who has tasted them knows that they offer a unique flavor experience along with consistently excellent quality. But what exactly is the secret of Belgian beers? What makes them so special, and why is it worth exploring the mysteries of their unique flavors alongside their traditions? In our article, we delve into these questions.

Belgium paints a colorful palette on Europe’s map not only with its ethnic and linguistic diversity but also through its beer culture. From spontaneously fermented lambic types and various abbey beers to light lagers, one can embark on an adventurous journey through the world of Belgian beers. Although in the early days, the science and results of brewing were strictly guarded by individual abbeys, fortunately, these traditions have, over time—and to the great delight of beer enthusiasts—become widely spread.

The Brewing and Varieties of Belgian Beers

The roots of Belgian brewing trace back to the Middle Ages. At that time, beer was produced by simple brewers, with its base being fermented grain, even then. In addition, various medicinal and aromatic herbs were used to flavor the beverage, though it was not always safe for consumption. As a result, monks implemented increasingly strict rules and regulations for beer production. In the 15th century, hops became part of the recipes, marking an important milestone in developing today’s flavors. Interestingly, Belgium did not adhere to the Bavarian Purity Law of 1516, which stated that beer could only be made from malt, water, and hops. Instead, they used ingredients such as ginger, anise, caraway, coriander, or juniper in brewing.

The Most Well-Known Belgian Beer Types

• Belgian Wheat Beer (Witbier)

The top-fermented, unfiltered, wheat-based beer became one of Belgium’s most popular brews by the 18th-19th century for a reason. Thanks to its low hop content, it features refreshing citrus aromas and long-lasting, strong head retention. Their opalescent color comes from the yeast and wheat starch. Hoegaarden White is one of the uncrowned kings of Belgian wheat beers.

• Belgian IPA Beers

Characteristically brewed with multiple varieties of hops, these beers have become perennial favorites in the Belgian beer lineup despite their bitter aromas. The classic Duvel, made with two types of hops, is an iconic and recurring winner in various international beer competitions.

• Saison

The distinctive flavor profile of this traditional Belgian beer style is primarily attributed to hops, malt, and unique yeast strains. While there are occasionally variants brewed with special spices, such as black pepper or star anise—like the 6% ABV masterpiece La Brasserie à Vapeur Saison de Pipaix—the Saison is generally characterized as a moderately strong, dry, and refreshing ale.

• Trappist beer

The much-admired Trappist beers are, true to their name, produced by monks in breweries within Trappist abbeys. Their quality is guaranteed by adhering to the guidelines of the International Trappist Association, with the involvement of its members. There are thirteen such breweries worldwide, six of which are located in Belgium (La Trappe, Chimay, Trappistes Rochefort).

It is also worth mentioning the high-alcohol, complex-flavored abbey beers, which refer to their monastic origin or production. However, this designation is subject to less strict regulations compared to the beers from Trappist monastic orders (Leffe, Tripel, Karmeliet, Grimbergen).

• Belgian Ale

The top-fermented Belgian ale could be considered an ordinary ale, but that’s hardly the case when it comes to Belgian beers. Belgian ale is enhanced with exciting spices and ingredients like orange blossom honey (Barbãr Cuvée Spéciale at 8%), coriander, and bitter orange peel (curacao). We must also mention the Barista Chocolate Quad (11%), which evokes the world of Belgian chocolates. In addition, special yeast strains contribute to the creation of truly exciting aromas in Belgian ales. For those who enjoy extremes, the Double Porto (9%) brown beer, aged with port wine, is highly recommended.

• Lambic and gueze

The Lambic is a legendary and almost iconic Belgian gem, known as one of the oldest beer styles. It serves as a textbook example of spontaneous fermentation, being produced without the use of cultivated beer yeast. Traditionally brewed over three years, Lambic offers a distinct flavor profile, with raw and tart aromas that are undoubtedly polarizing. However, its fruity variations, such as Boon Framboise or the Gueuze Lambic made with raspberries and cherries, are quite popular.

• Dubbel, tripel, quadrupel

Names that hint at the strength and complex flavor profiles of beers have evolved into distinct categories. Moderately bodied, often dark beers are characterized by caramel and chocolate aromas, malty sweetness, and restrained hoppiness. Their full-bodied, creamy head provides a majestic taste experience, cleverly masking their higher alcohol content, so caution is advised.

The Unique Characteristics of Belgian Beers

To maintain exceptional quality, Belgians pay special attention to bottling, employing cork or metal closures to serve this purpose. In some cases, the final fermentation phase occurs in the bottle, which is indicated by the “bottle-conditioned” label. Belgian beers are often available in unique bottles, and it is rare to find them on draft. The excellent flavors are best appreciated at the right temperature and in the appropriate glassware, so it is recommended to enjoy them at cellar temperature, between 8-15°C (46-59°F).

Despite the difficulty in standardizing the characteristics of Belgian beers due to their numerous styles, they are generally distinguished by their unique, spicy flavor profiles and higher alcohol content. This adds a distinct character to the aromatic Belgian marvels.

Famous Belgian Breweries

The most famous Belgian breweries can be considered true pilgrimage sites where tradition meets experiences and fabulous flavors in an authentic setting. 

• Located in the town of Buggenhout, Bosteels Brewery has been under the direction of the Bosteels family for over 200 years, producing award-winning Belgian beers. Since its establishment in 1791, the brewery has paid special attention to tradition and has even been recognized with the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award.

• The Brasserie des Légendes brewery in the small Belgian town of Ath is remarkable not only because nearly all ingredients, starting with barley, are sourced from local farms, but also because of their passionate belief in local production. They are expanding with exciting new projects, such as establishing a chocolate factory. Fortunately, their focus remains on beer, producing 1,800,000 liters annually.

• Located in the heart of Bruges, Straffe Hendrik is one of the oldest continuously operating breweries and offers an unforgettable experience. They pride themselves not only on preserving authentic traditions in their beers but also on unique innovations, such as the underground beer pipeline that connects the brewery to the bottling facility.

The Influence of Belgian Beers on Local Brewing

If we were to think that the popularity and flavor profile of Belgian beers haven’t influenced local brewing, we would (fortunately) be mistaken.

Inspired by Abbey beers, the Zirci Apátsági Manufaktúra allows the development of spicy, herbal aromas in most of its beers. Their unfiltered amber ale, for example, features the fruity aromas often found in Belgian beers, while their Dubbel is described as being brewed in a sacred location.

The Pannonhalmi Főapátsági Sörfőzde (Pannonhalma Archabbey Brewery) is also excitingly and successfully experimenting with various Belgian styles. Their unfiltered Blonde ale, for instance, is a noteworthy offering with its citrusy flavor and fruity aromas. Similarly, their Dubbel, Tripel, Quadrupel, and Witbier have become striking and popular choices among local enthusiasts.

The Largest Belgian Beer Shops

Fortunately, the demand has created a plentiful supply in our country, so you can now indulge in excellent selections at numerous places locally. For example, the Venenum Belgian and Quality Beer Shop offers a lavish assortment where you’re sure to find something to your liking, just as Hetedik Lépcső promises excitement in this field. Henri Belgian Brasserie is also on a passionate mission to popularize Belgian beer, which they execute excellently, as does Snaps Galéria Belgian Pub & Belgian Beer Webshop in fulfilling a similar mission flawlessly.

Unraveling the secret of Belgian beers is like talking about a delicious cake: the proof is in the tasting. Belgian-style beers are certainly not to be missed!

Stop by Élesztőház, where you can also taste the finest Hungarian craft beers inspired by the excellent Belgian beer culture.