The Belgian tradition in beer production is rich and varied: aromatic yeasts, spices, fruits, and ancient techniques give life to styles that are very suitable for holiday lunches and dinners. A Belgian beer can be both complex and drinkable, able to accompany rich dishes without overpowering them.
Looking for Belgian beers for the holidays? Discover the selection of Belgian beers on Maltese.beer — 24-48h shipping throughout Italy.
What is "Belgian white beer"?
The "Belgian white beer" (Witbier) is a traditional style, typically spiced with coriander and orange peel, cloudy due to the presence of unmalted wheat, and often with a low alcohol content. It is fresh, slightly tart, and very drinkable, ideal for appetizers, salads, or fish dishes. Buy Riversa Blanche on Maltese.beer — an excellent example of the style.
Differences between Witbier and other Belgian beers
- Trappist and high fermentation Ales: fuller-bodied, often stronger and with deep fruity and spicy notes.
- Fruity beers: use fruit or yeasts that enhance sweet and fresh aromas.
- Witbier: citrusy and spicy aroma, light-medium body, perfect as an aperitif or with light dishes.
Are there "Belgian beers online"? How to choose them?
Yes: on Maltese.beer you will find a curated selection of Belgian beers with shipping throughout Italy. When buying online, consider these criteria:
- Check the production or expiration date to ensure freshness.
- Read tasting notes to match the style with your meal (e.g., spiced beers for rich dishes, Witbier for light appetizers).
- Check shipping conditions (packaging and temperature).
Buy Belgian beers online at Maltese.beer →
What type of beer is "Chimay"?
Chimay is one of the most well-known Trappist beers in the world: produced by monks according to traditional discipline, it is available in several variants (Red, Blue, White) with different strengths and profiles. These are complex beers, suitable for pairing with aged cheeses, roasted meats, and chocolate desserts. Buy Chimay Rouge on Maltese.beer.
What is "Omer beer"?
Omer is a historic style (Omer Traditional Blond) produced in Belgium and characterized by a full body and a malty profile with caramel notes. It’s not among the most common on Italian shelves but is appreciated by those looking for a Belgian beer with structure and moderate alcoholic warmth.
Are "fruity beers" found in supermarkets?
Many supermarkets offer fruity beers of industrial or craft production. If you’re looking for a typically Belgian fruity beer, read the label to see if fruit is added during fermentation or if the flavor is just flavored. Craft options and specialty stores — like Maltese.beer — tend to offer more authentic choices.
How to pair a Belgian beer with Christmas meals
For holiday lunches, look for beers that can balance rich dishes without overpowering them. Here are some practical ideas:
- Roasted meat courses: amber or medium Trappist beers (full-bodied, with caramel notes).
- Spiced or stewed dishes: dark Belgian beers with notes of chocolate and spices.
- Appetizers and fish dishes: witbier or Belgian whites, for freshness and citrus notes.
For roasted meats and the more structured holiday dishes, La Trappe Quadrupel is an excellent choice:
Practical tip
If you want a choice that combines Christmas spirit and classic Belgian profile, choose a bottle with around 7-8% alcohol: it offers warmth without being overwhelming, and leaves room for fruity and spicy notes to accompany the meal. Find your Belgian holiday beer on Maltese.beer →
Final tips for buying and tasting
- Always read the label: style, alcohol content, and tasting notes help you choose the right pairing.
- Serving temperature: many Belgian beers perform best around 8-12°C (higher for dark Trappists), not ice-cold like an industrial lager.
- Try a small amount first: open a bottle before lunch to assess intensity and pairing.
Knowing the styles and producers allows you to choose the right beer for each course. Buy the best Belgian beers for the holidays on Maltese.beer — premium selection, shipping throughout Italy in 24-48h.
