[What is the appeal of Belgian beer?] A thorough explanation of its characteristics, varieties, and history!

We will answer your questions!

I have drunk over 1,000 bottles of beer from all over Europe, but I especially like Belgian beer.Unparalleled depth and charmI have felt this way.

伝統的なTrappist beerや、地元で親しまれているランビックビールなどを実際に味わってきたので、この記事ではベルギービールが持つ魅力を体験ベースでご紹介します♪

What is the difference between Belgian beer and other countries' beers?

Belgian beer can be described in one word:「豊かな伝統が育んだ多様性の極み」。その独自の風味とスタイルの豊富さは、他国のビールとは一線を画しています。

そんな多種多様な味わいを楽しめるのがベルギービールの魅力ですが、その特徴をまとめると以下の通りです。

Feature 1 Wide variety

There are a huge variety of styles, including white beer, trappist beer, lambic, saison, etc. Each style has its own unique flavor and preparation techniques, making it impossible for drinkers to get bored.

Feature 2 The fermentation method is unique

Belgian beer includes lambic beer, which uses natural fermentation, and a wide variety of beers made with fruits and spices. In particular, they are characterized by the complex flavors that are created during the fermentation process. In other countries, commercial brewing methods are common, and many beers are made with a consistent taste by controlling the yeast. The use of spices and fruits is not seen much.

Feature 3 Alcohol content and taste

Belgian beers tend to be high in alcohol and have complex fruity and spicy flavors. There is a wide range of options, from rich to light.

Feature 4 History and Culture

Belgian beer has its roots in traditional brewing in monasteries, and beer is closely linked to food. Because of its long history, each region has developed its own unique style. Other countries also have their own beer cultures, but there are few countries with the diversity and deep history of Belgium.

ベルギービールの歴史について、詳しくはSee belowWe are doing it.

Bonus: The bottle has a unique shape

That's right, Belgian beer bottles tend to be plump and round in shape.

this is,Secondary fermentation and aging often takes place in the bottle.Therefore,The shape is sturdy and stable so that it can withstand pressure.Apparently, that's the case.

The main types and characteristics of Belgian beer

Trappist beer

Among Belgian beers, "Trappist beer" is a special one. It is beer brewed by monks in monasteries, and a portion of the profits are donated to charity. Trappist beer has a rich flavor and is often slightly higher in alcohol content. Famous beers include "Chimay"or"Orval" "Rochefort" "Westmalle", all of which are characterized by their fruity and complex aroma.

The difference between Trappist and Abbey beersWhat is it?

Trappist beer is specifically brewed in Trappist monasteries and must meet strict standards, so it can only be produced in certified Trappist monasteries, mainly in Belgium and the Netherlands.

On the other hand, monastery beer refers to any beer brewed in a monastery and is a broader category than Trappist beer.

So, all Trappist beers are monastery beers, but not all monastery beers are Trappist beers.

Lambic beer

"Lambic" is a type of beer unique to Belgium that is made by natural fermentation. It is made using traditional methods and is characterized by a fruity sourness and dry taste. Among them, there are blended lambics called "gueuze" and "Lindemans Creek" and "Rambois" are famous fruit lambics.

White beer

Belgian white beer is made from wheat and often contains spices such as orange peel and coriander.Hoegaarden" is a typical example, and is characterized by a refreshing aroma and light mouthfeel, making it the perfect beer for summer.

Duvel (Strong Pale Ale)

"Duvel"or"La Chouffe" and other strong pale ales are characterized by their high alcohol content and strong effervescence. They are fruity yet bitter, allowing you to enjoy a complex flavor.

Saison beer

Saisons are beers that were originally brewed by Belgian farmers for use while working in the fields in the summer. They are characterized by a light acidity, fruity aroma, and a spicy aftertaste, making them refreshing and easy to drink, and perfect for pairing with food.

How to enjoy Belgian beer

Use the right glass

• Special glass
  Belgian beers have their own special glasses for each type of beer. Even if they are not special glasses, the shape of the glass changes the aroma and taste of the beer, soUsing the right glass for the beer will allow you to enjoy the flavor even more.I guess so.
  
  
• How to pour
  If you tilt the glass to pour without creating any bubbles, and then stand the glass upright at the end to create bubbles, the aroma will be more pronounced. Sometimes an incredible amount of bubbles will come out,Pour carefully while watching the situation.Please take a look.

Drink at the right temperature

The appropriate temperature for Belgian beer varies depending on the type of beer. In general, Trappist beers and strong ales are best served at a slightly warmer temperature (e.g. 12-14°C), while white beers and lambics are best served chilled (e.g. 4-6°C).

Be creative with food pairings

• Food compatibility
  One of the charms of Belgian beer is that it can be enjoyed with food. For example, Trappist beer goes well with meat dishes and cheese, and Lambic beer is recommended to be paired with desserts and chocolate.
  
  
• Try the regional cuisine
  Enjoying beer with traditional Belgian dishes (mussels, fries, beer stew, etc.) will enhance the flavor even more.

Attend tasting events and tours

• Brewery tour
  In Belgium, you can tour many breweries and learn about the beer-making process while tasting the beer. Listening directly to the brewers will deepen your understanding of beer.
  
  
• Beer Festival
  Attending local beer festivals and events gives you the chance to try many different types of beer all at once and discover something new.

Enjoy a taste comparison

It's also a good idea to do a tasting using small glasses to try different types of Belgian beer, allowing you to compare the characteristics of each beer.

Belgian Beer History and Culture

ベルギービールの歴史と文化は、数世紀にわたる豊かな伝統と独特な風土から形成されています。以下、その概要をまとめました。

From ancient times to the Middle Ages

• Ancient Brewing
  The origins of beer in Belgium date back to ancient Roman times, when the Romans recorded the beer the locals brewed.
  
  
• The role of monasteries
  In the Middle Ages, monks began brewing beer. Brewing in monasteries was closely linked to the monks' self-sufficient lifestyle, and beer was also consumed as a substitute for water.

16th century innovations

• Introducing hops
  In the 16th century, hops were introduced into beer, improving its preservation properties, giving it a richer flavour and laying the groundwork for the development of distinctive Belgian beer styles.
  
  
• The birth of Trappist beer
  Beer from Trappist monasteries was brewed to support charitable works and is still produced to the strictest standards today.

Industrialization in the 19th century

• The Industrialization of Beer
  In the 19th century, brewing developed as an industry and more beer was produced, with many breweries established, especially in cities such as Brussels and Antwerp.
  
  
• Establishing a diverse style
  During this period, unique styles such as saison and lambic were established, further enriching Belgium's beer culture.

Changes since the 20th century

• Global Recognition
  In the 20th century, Belgian beer gained international recognition and many breweries developed new styles of beer.
  
  
• The boom of craft beer
  Since the 1980s, there has been a boom in craft beer, and traditional brewing methods and new styles of beer have been re-evaluated.

Modern Belgian beer culture

• Beer diversity
  現在、ベルギーには200以上の醸造所There are500種類以上のビールが存在します。各地域ごとに特有のスタイルがあり、地元の食文化と密接に結びついています。
  
  
• Beer Festival
  In Belgium, beer festivals are held all over the country, providing an opportunity for many people to gather and enjoy a wide variety of beer.

Belgian beer history and culture is diverse and unique, a combination of ancient traditions and innovation.

From monastery brewing to industrialization and up to the present day, Belgian beer has always evolved, and its depth and richness fascinates beer lovers all over the world.

summary

The greatest appeal of Belgian beer is the wide variety and variety of flavors. Each beer has its own unique character, such as the rich and complex flavor of Trappist beer, the sour, naturally fermented beer of Lambic, and the refreshing taste of White beer.

ベルギービールの魅力は、ビール好きな人だけでなく、初心者でも楽しめる幅広い選択肢にあります。食事と合わせて楽しむことで、より深い味わいが感じられ、ベルギーならではのビール文化が堪能できるでしょう。

Come and experience the world of Belgian beer, a world of tradition and diversity!