Belgium is synonymous with beer, boasting a brewing tradition that spans centuries. From Trappist ales to lambics, Belgium offers a rich tapestry of flavors for every beer enthusiast. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a seasoned connoisseur, this guide will take you through some of the best breweries in the country and help you savor the essence of Belgian beer culture.
1. Westvleteren Brewery (Sint-Sixtus Abbey)
- Location: Westvleteren
- Famous For: Westvleteren 12, often hailed as one of the best beers in the world.
- Experience: This Trappist brewery offers a unique experience, as the beer is brewed by monks in limited quantities. Visitors can enjoy a tasting at the abbey café, but be sure to book in advance if you want to purchase bottles.
2. Cantillon Brewery
- Location: Brussels
- Famous For: Lambic, Gueuze, and Kriek beers.
- Experience: A visit to this family-run brewery is like stepping back in time. Cantillon specializes in traditional lambic brewing, using spontaneous fermentation. Take a guided tour to learn about the intricate process and enjoy tastings of their sour, fruity beers.
3. De Halve Maan Brewery
- Location: Bruges
- Famous For: Brugse Zot and Straffe Hendrik.
- Experience: Located in the heart of Bruges, this brewery combines history and innovation. Take the brewery tour, which includes a walk through the underground beer pipeline that connects the brewery to its bottling plant. End your visit with a refreshing glass of Brugse Zot on the rooftop terrace.
4. Chimay Brewery
- Location: Chimay
- Famous For: Chimay Blue, Chimay Red, and Chimay White.
- Experience: As one of Belgium’s renowned Trappist breweries, Chimay offers a perfect blend of beer and cheese. Visit the Chimay Experience Center to learn about the brewing process and enjoy pairings of their world-famous ales with locally made cheeses.
5. Brouwerij Het Anker
- Location: Mechelen
- Famous For: Gouden Carolus beers.
- Experience: This historic brewery dates back to the 15th century. Het Anker’s beers are known for their rich, malty flavors. After a tour, relax at their brewery restaurant, where you can pair their beers with traditional Belgian dishes.
6. Delirium Brewery (Huyghe Brewery)
- Location: Melle
- Famous For: Delirium Tremens, known for its iconic pink elephant logo.
- Experience: This brewery offers a fun and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the Delirium Village in Brussels for a tasting experience featuring over 2,000 beers, including their own flagship brews.
7. Brouwerij Boon
- Location: Lembeek
- Famous For: Oude Geuze and Oude Kriek.
- Experience: Brouwerij Boon is a must-visit for lovers of traditional lambics. Their beers are aged in oak barrels, resulting in complex, tart flavors. A tour of their facilities provides insight into their meticulous brewing methods.
8. Duvel Moortgat Brewery
- Location: Breendonk
- Famous For: Duvel, a strong golden ale with a signature crisp finish.
- Experience: The Duvel brewery tour offers a deep dive into the science and art of brewing. Learn about their unique yeast strains and enjoy a freshly poured Duvel at the end of your visit.
9. Brouwerij De Dolle Brouwers
- Location: Esen
- Famous For: Oerbier and Arabier.
- Experience: Known for their quirky and creative approach to brewing, De Dolle Brouwers offers a lively and engaging tour. Their beers are bold and unique, making this brewery a favorite among adventurous beer lovers.
10. Rochefort Brewery
- Location: Rochefort
- Famous For: Rochefort 10, a strong dark ale with complex flavors.
- Experience: Another Trappist gem, Rochefort’s beers are brewed in the quiet serenity of the abbey. While the brewery itself isn’t open to the public, the nearby town offers opportunities to taste their exceptional ales.
Tips for Beer Tasting in Belgium
- Plan Ahead: Many breweries require reservations for tours and tastings.
- Pair with Food: Belgian beer pairs wonderfully with local dishes like mussels, fries, and waffles.
- Take It Slow: Belgian beers are often higher in alcohol content, so pace yourself to fully enjoy the flavors.
- Learn the Styles: Familiarize yourself with the different types of Belgian beer, such as Trappist, lambic, and saison, to enhance your experience.
Belgium is a beer lover’s paradise, offering a perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and hospitality. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities or quaint countryside towns, the breweries of Belgium promise an unforgettable journey through the art of beer-making. Cheers! 🍻