What is a Belgian Witbier?
Everything you need to know about Belgian Witbiers
If you’re a fan of Belgian beer, then you’ve probably tried a Witbier or two. But what exactly is a Witbier? Read on to find out everything you need to know about this refreshing style of beer. From its history and origins, to the brewing process and key ingredients, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Witbiers. So whether you’re a Belgian beer lover or just looking to try something new, be sure to check out this blog post!
Belgian Witbier, or white beers, are one of the oldest styles of brewed beer. Originating in Belgium in the 1500s, they first saw widespread popularity with Pierre Celis’ introduction of Hoegaarden in 1966. What makes Belgian Witbier unique is its use of unmalted wheat, which gives it a cloudy, pale yellow appearance and contributes to its sweet, slightly sour flavor profile. The addition of coriander and orange peel also gives Belgian Witbiers an unmistakable citrusy aroma. As Pierre Celis once said: “If you just drink one beer style, you don’t experience all the joy that beer brings you.” Thanks to Pierre’s work, we can now taste and enjoy this centuries-old style and appreciate its subtle complexities compared to other styles of beer. Ultimately, whether it’s a tall glass of Pierre’s original masterpiece or something else from his homeland, Belgian Witbier provides light yet flavorful refreshment for any occasion.
What is a Belgian Witbier, and what sets it apart from other styles of beer?
Belgian Witbier is a Belgian wheat beer style that has been brewed since the early 15th century. Pierre Celis, the visionary behind what is now known as Hoegaarden, helped to revive this nearly extinct style when he opened his legendary brewery in 1965. Hoegaarden quickly became popular and heavily influenced many other breweries in Belgium, eventually becoming one of the most sought-after styles of beer around the world. What sets Belgian Witbier apart from other styles is its cloudy color, riff on spices like coriander and orange peel, as well as its light body and refreshing flavor. It’s usually considered an excellent choice for warmer weather due to its low alcohol content and aromatic qualities. Belgian Witbiers are distinct from other beers due to their wheat malts, tartness, citrusy aroma, and palate cleansing characteristics. All these factors make it a beer unlike no other; making it easy for anyone to understand why Pierre Celis’ effort of reviving this traditional ale have become so successful among beer drinkers!
Everything you need to know about Belgian Witbiers
Belgian Witbiers are some of the most refreshing and flavorful beers around. Often called “white beers” due to their hazy, straw-like appearance, these brews are perfect for summer sipping. While Witbiers may seem like a new trend, they actually have a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. So, whether you’re a beer novice or a seasoned pro, read on to learn everything you need to know about Belgian Witbiers.
What is a Belgian Witbier and what makes it unique from other beers?
Belgian Witbier is a style of beer that has been around for centuries. Characterized by its light, cloudy appearance and fruity aroma, it stands out from more traditional ales. The unique taste of Belgian Witbier comes from the combination of coriander and unmalted wheat in the brewing process. These ingredients are combined with light hops, producing a refreshing taste and aroma perfect for summer. In addition to coriander, orange peel is also commonly added to provide subtle hints of citrus flavor and aroma. Belgian Witbier has become increasingly popular in recent years, due to its bright and flavorful taste profile which pairs well with many different types of food. It’s a great choice for any beer drinker looking to try something different while still enjoying the smoothness and complexity expected from a quality craft beer. Whether you’re a fan of Belgian styles or new to craft beers altogether, Belgian Witbier is definitely worth trying!
The history of the Belgian Witbier and how it became popular in today's craft beer scene
The Belgian Witbier is a unique white beer that dates back to the middle ages. Once nearly extinct, it was rediscovered by a humble milkman named Pierre Celis. In 1965, he created a modern version of this ancient beer and called it Hoegaarden after his small village in Belgium. Celis’ new brew quickly quieted its doubters as Belgian Witbier soon became one of the most popular craft beers in Europe. A few years later, Celis brought his witbier recipe to Austin, Texas, where American brewers began crafting their own versions of the unique brews. Today’s craft beer scene is heavily influenced by Belgian varieties; witbiers have become particularly popular due to their refreshing flavor and crisp finish. Thanks to Pierre Celis, artisanal brewing of Belgian Witbier has survived for centuries and continues to thrive in modern day bars and pubs around the world.
The brewing process of a Belgian Witbier and what ingredients are used
Belgian Witbier, also known as white beer, is a classic Belgian style that has become popular in many craft breweries around the world. Brewing this light and fruity beer starts with unmalted wheat and barley malt, which gives it its refreshing flavor. The addition of ale yeast allows for a quick fermentation with low alcohol content. Once fermented it is often spiced with coriander and orange peel to give it a distinct citrusy aroma and flavor. To add body and further complexity, some witbier brewers also add oats or other unmalted grains. While some brewers use traditional ingredients only, others like to experiment by adding different spices or herbs such as lemon grass, ginger or chamomile. The end result is a deliciously light and easy-to-drink beer that can be enjoyed all year round. Due to its low ABV level and light character, the witbier pairs well with salty appetizers such as cheese platters or smoked salmon. In sum, the Belgian Witbier brewing process relies on unmalted wheat for its base malt, ale yeast for quick fermentation, coriander and orange peel for aromatics and flavoring, as well as other optional unmalted grains to give further complexity. By experimenting with ingredients while keeping true to tradition of the style’s origins, anyone can create their own unique take on this centuries old Belgian classic.
The taste, aroma, and appearance of a Belgian Witbier
A Belgian Witbier is a refreshing summertime favorite, and its taste, aroma, and appearance are both captivating and distinctive. When poured into a glass, you will notice citrus aromas with hints of doughy malt flavors and a faint hint of coriander spice as well. There is almost no hop aroma present – making it an approachable beer style for all types of beer drinkers. In terms of color and appearance, Belgian Witbiers are cloudy in nature with a straw gold to golden hue. Up top rests a large white head that is comprised of lacy lace and has excellent retention, lasting until the very last sip. In the mouthfeel, one can expect a medium body that has subtle bready notes leading to the citrus backbone of this style. Whether you’re looking for an approachable beer or a delicious summertime refresher, Belgian Witbiers will definitely hit the spot – so if you haven’t tried one yet, now’s your chance!
A Belgian Witbier offers much more than just flavor; its lively aroma also adds excitement to each sip. Citrus aromas mix nicely with doughy malt notes before giving way to subtle spices such as coriander for a truly unique taste profile. As for visual appeal, these beers appear cloudy in nature but boast straw gold colors when held up to the light along with long lasting foam up top. Ultimately, after taking in all five senses while tasting this style, it’s no wonder why it remains amongst the most popular beers styles throughout Europe.
What foods pair well with Belgian Witbiers?
Belgian Witbiers pair well with a wide range of foods due to their light and refreshing nature. The beer’s citrus and coriander notes make it an excellent complement to seafood dishes such as shrimp scampi or fish tacos. The beer’s lightness and effervescence also make it a good match for lighter fare such as salads, grilled vegetables, and sandwiches. Additionally, its spicy notes can help balance the sweetness of fruit-based desserts such as lemon tarts or fruit sorbets.
Some of the best Belgian Witbiers commercially available
An iconic beer style, Belgian Witbiers have been around for centuries and captivated drinkers with their crisp, refreshing taste and distinct cloudy appearance. Catawba Brewing White Zombie is a great example of this legendary brew, featuring aromas of orange and coriander as well as a pleasant maltiness that pairs well with lighter dishes. Similarly, Hoegaarden has become an international favorite with its light body and subtle sweetness derived from the addition of coriander and orange zest. Of course, no discussion of Belgian Wits would be complete without mentioning Allagash White. With a blend of wheat malt and oats, it’s heavy on the sweeter notes while still providing a delightfully tart finish. Finally, Blanche de Bruxelles stands out for its unique flavor profile derived from the addition of pepper and herbs along with the expected orange peel character. All these beers share one thing in common: each one provides an experience that is reminiscent of days gone by.
Drink some Witbiers in Asheville!
If you’d like to learn more about Belgian Witbiers and try some delicious examples of the style brewed right here in Asheville, NC, join us on a brewery tour!
