Dulle Teve guide to Belgian beers and buying tips
Belgian beers have a unique variety and history: from Trappist ales to blanche, including fruit and spiced beers. If you are looking for complex flavors, intense aromas, and memorable drinks, you are in the right place. In this guide, we answer the most common questions about styles and how to buy Belgian beers, and present a recommendation for those who want to try a typical example of Flemish character.
What is "Belgian white beer"?
Belgian white beer (or Belgian white / witbier) is a traditional style made with unmalted wheat, often cloudy and straw-colored. Typical characteristics:
- Light-bodied and drinkable, with a slight refreshing acidity.
- Aromas of orange peel, coriander, and cereal notes.
- White and lasting foam; ideal served cold.
It is perfect for those looking for an easy-to-drink beer with personality, especially in spring and summer.
How and where to buy Belgian beers online?
Buying Belgian beers online is convenient and offers access to rare or niche bottles. Here are some practical tips:
- Check the seller's reputation: reviews, shipping times, and storage during transport.
- Check the production or expiration date: many Belgian beers evolve over time but many should be consumed fresh.
- Order quantities you can consume within a reasonable time to avoid oxidation issues.
- Prefer boxes with protective packaging to avoid breakage during shipping.
Why is Chimay so famous among Belgian beers?
Chimay is the name of one of the most well-known Trappist breweries in the world. Chimay's strengths include:
- Produced according to tradition by monastic communities: focus on quality and recipe.
- Variety: from lighter to more complex, often with aging and special editions.
- Balance between alcohol, malt, hops, and fermentation: clean and lasting aromas.
If you are new to Trappist beers, a Chimay can be an excellent starting point to understand the style.
What is "Omer beer"?
Omer (like Omer Traditional Belgian Ale) is a Belgian brand known for its full-bodied ales with a malty character. It’s a good example of how Belgium combines the tradition of top-fermented beers with skillfully balanced recipes. Expect caramel notes, good body, and a smooth finish.
Where to find fruity beers at the supermarket?
Fruity beers are increasingly common: some are Belgian producers adding fruit or flavors during production, others are made with spontaneous fermentations or blends. At the supermarket you can find:
- Sweeter and more accessible commercial variants, often seasonal displays.
- Craft options on shelves or in specialty sections.
- Check the label for real fruit content or added flavors and for alcohol strength.
Tasting tips and pairings
To best appreciate a Belgian beer:
- Serve at the correct temperature: white and fruity beers cooler (5–8°C), more complex ales slightly warmer (8–12°C).
- Use the right glass: tulip glasses or goblets enhance the aromas.
- Pair with food: blue cheeses, smoked meats, spicy dishes, or desserts with honey and dried fruit work well with many Belgian beers.
A recommendation to try the Flemish character
If you want to experience a beer that embodies Flemish craftsmanship — balance between drinkability and complexity, fruity aromas, and a pleasant dryness — consider trying
Conclusion
Belgian beers are a universe to explore sip by sip. If you want to start with authentic Flemish character, Dulle Teve by De Dolle Brouwers is the right choice — available on Maltese.beer along with Chimay Triple and Blanche Lupulus. Order online with 24/48h shipping.
