Guide to Lambic: What It Is and How to Drink It

Looking for authentic Belgian Lambic and Gueuze? Discover the selection on Maltese — Cantillon, 3 Fonteinen, Tilquin and much more. Shipping 24-48h.

Lambic guide: what it is and how to drink it

Lambic is a unique Belgian beer style, born in the Senne region around Brussels. The result of spontaneous fermentation: the wort is exposed to yeasts and bacteria present in the air and then aged in wooden barrels. The result is a complex, sour, wild beer deeply connected to its territory.

Want an overview of all sour styles? Read the complete guide to sour beer →

What exactly is Lambic?

• Spontaneous fermentation (without selected yeasts).
• Use of light malts and very aged hops.
• Long maturation in wooden barrels, often 1–3 years or more.
• Aromatic profile: acidic, funky, earthy, with fruity and oxidative notes.

Lambic vs Gueuze

Lambic = single beer with spontaneous fermentation. Gueuze = blend of different lambic vintages, refermented in the bottle: sparkling, complex, wine-like. Many breweries practice blending to achieve balance between acidity, body, and complexity.

What is Kriek Lambic?

The Kriek is a variant of Lambic with sour cherries ("krieken") that ferment or macerate in the beer, giving intense fruity aromas and a pleasant balance between acidity and fruit.

Buy Kriek Cantillon on Maltese →

A Cuvée not to miss

Aged lambic cuvées represent the highest expression of the style: blends of different vintages for a perfect balance of acidity, body, and complexity.

Buy Cuvée Armand&Gaston from 3 Fonteinen on Maltese →

How to drink and pair Lambic

• Temperature: 6–10°C in a glass or flute for sparkling versions.
• Pairings: aged cheeses (gouda, goat cheese), red berries, fatty fish, fruit-based desserts.
• Storage: keep cool, away from light. Some labels improve with age.

Discover the selection of Lambic and Gueuze on Maltese → Cantillon, 3 Fonteinen, Tilquin and much more. Shipping in Italy 24-48h.