[Belgium] What kind of beer is KASTEEL?

【ベルギー】KASTEEL(カステール/キャスティール)ってどんなビール?
Yoko, a European beer lover

KASTEEL is made in a small town in the west of Belgium.A beer brand with a strong tradition and a strong presence.

As the name "KASTEEL = castle" suggests,Brewed on the grounds of Ingelmunster CastleIt is characterized by its presence and luxurious taste!

インゲルムンスターの場所
IngelmunsterLocation
Author: Myako

It is attracting attention not only from Belgium but also from beer fans all over the world, including Japan.

This time, among KASTEELThe first beer was bornand is the core of the series.DonkelLet me introduce you to these types.

KASTEEL Donker
(Kastell Donker)

KASTEEL Donker(カスティール・ドンケル)
Sweet and rich dark beer
Author: Myako

My impression after drinking this beer was,It was like tasting a rich dessert.!

The moment you pour it into the glass, it rises upChocolate and caramel aromaThe color is a deep brown, almost black.Plenty of weightis.

When you put it in your mouth, the sweetness and warmth of the alcohol slowly spreads, making it almost like a liquid dessert. And the 11% alcohol content packs quite a punch!

Personally, I think it's a bitThe sweetness and richness were so pronounced that it was hard to continue drinking..

but,For those who like full-bodied beeror,Perfect for enjoying slowly with chocolate or cheese.I think so ♪

Recommendation level: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)

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Basic information about KASTEEL Donker

Types of beerDark Strong Ale
Alcohol content11%
country of originBelgium
colorDark Brown
TasteSweet and rich flavors of chocolate, prunes and caramel
FeaturesA sweet beer with a rich and mellow flavor that can be enjoyed like a dessert

By the way, the correct pronunciation isCastelIn Japan and English-speaking countries,CastileIt is often written as:

\ Recommended for those who like sweet beer /

¥13,877 (As of 17:39 on April 25, 2025 | According to Rakuten Market)

A variety of Kasteel beers

Kasteelビールの各種
Cherry-flavored lipstick and
We also have a refreshing white beer with a citrus aroma.

The story behind the birth of KASTEEL beer

The Kasteel Brewery began in Waken, Belgium, when Amandus Vanhonzebroeck started brewing beer in parallel with his duties as mayor. His son Emil opened the "Sint Josef Brewery" in Ingelmunster in 1900, which became the foundation stone for Kasteel.

Emil's sons Paul and Ernest later expanded the export of beer, and Paul's son Luc continued his father's legacy by producing sour "Bacchus" and lambic-style beers.

In 1986, Luc bought Ingelmunster Castle and created the beer, which he named Kasteel.This beer has a sweet and complex flavor and has become a new icon for Kasteel Brewery.

In 1989, Kasteel Donker was introduced. This powerful beer with a hint of sweetness set the tone for the Kasteel brand as a groundbreaking beer that maintained tradition while incorporating new ideas.

Kasteel Tripel was also born. This aromatic, robust beer became a symbol of Kasteel's innovative spirit. After Luc's son, Xavier, took over the brewery, Kasteel continued to create new styles in addition to traditional brews, and is loved all over the world.

The secret behind KASTEEL beer labels

KASTEEL(カステール)ビールのラベル
KASTEEL beer label
KASTEEL(カステール)ビールの缶のラベル
Cans also have colorful labels

The Kasteel beer label isFeatures a simple and classic designThe label is based on calm colors.The richness of the beerThis conveys the following message.

Also,Different colors are used for each beer styleIt visually expresses individuality.

The label saysThe "Kasteel" brand name, alcohol content, and type of beer (Donker, Tripel, etc.) are clearly stated, allowing consumers to easily understand the characteristics of the beer..

Yoko, a European beer lover

KasteelSimple yet elegant designIt really impresses with its high quality.

Position of KASTEEL beer in Japan

Kasteel has a strong reputation in the Japanese craft beer market, especiallyIt is popular among beer lovers for its quality and unique flavor.While preserving the traditional Belgian beer style, they also incorporate new flavors with a modern approach,Popular in Japan, especially among craft beer fansThat's it.

In particular, Kasteel Donker and Kasteel Tripel are considered to be some of the most representative Belgian beer brands in Japan. They can be purchased at liquor stores and online shops that carry a wide range of imported beers, and are also popular in Japan.A slightly special beerYou can enjoy it as.

\Here are the most popular products in Japan/

Author: Myako

ThisKasteel TripelThe features are:Fruity and refreshing, lighter than Dunkelis. 

You can enjoy the aroma of fruit and hops, making it even easier to drink.

How to taste and pair with KASTEEL beer

Suitable temperature

  • Donker: At around 12-14℃, it is best to enjoy it at room temperature for a rich aroma.
  • Tripel: Chill it at 8-10℃ to bring out its sharpness.

Food that goes well with it

CuisineSpecific recipe examplesCompatibility points
Meat dishesRoast beef, steakThe sweetness and richness of Donker goes well with red meat.
cheeseBrie cheese, ComteThe aroma of Tripel enhances the flavor of cheese.
DessertChocolate cake, dried fruitThe rich sweetness of Donker is a perfect match!

summary

KASTEEL is a brand that continues to attract beer fans around the world with its sophisticated taste while retaining Belgian tradition.

The rich and luxurious Donker and the well-balanced Tripel are both masterpieces with their own unique personalities.

If you're looking for a beer that's different from the usual or a perfect beer for a special occasion, give this a try!

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