A Comprehensive Guide to Brussels Beer Culture

Brussels is considered to be the beer-brewing capital of Europe and it has a long-standing tradition of beer brewing, which dates back hundreds of years. The beer produced in Brussels is known for its high quality and is often sought after by beer enthusiasts around the world. In this article, we will look at the history of beer brewing in Brussels and how it has evolved over the years to become one of Europe’s most famous beer cultures.

The History of Beer Brewing in Brussels

Brewing beer in Brussels dates back to the Middle Ages and can be traced to the Hapsburg Empire. Brewers of the time brewed a variety of different beers but the one that gained the most popularity was the Lambic beer. This beer was characterised by its distinctive sourness, which was created by the use of wild yeasts that were present in the brewery itself. Over the centuries, different styles of Lambic beers were developed, including the Gueuze and Kriek styles, which are still popular today.

Lambic beer started to gain popularity throughout Europe, with brewers in other countries experimenting with the style. One of the most famous of these experiments was Pilsner, which was created in the Czech Republic in 1842 and quickly gained international fame. This beer style was then adapted and modified by Belgian brewers, who used their existing brewing techniques to create a lighter but still flavourful version of Pilsner.

As the popularity of beer grew, more and more breweries opened in Brussels and the competition to create new styles and improve production techniques was fierce. This resulted in many different types of beer being produced in the city, including pale ales, lagers, stouts and porters.

The Rise of the Belgian Beer Revolution

In the late 20th century, a “Belgian Beer Revolution” began to take place in which brewers began to experiment with different flavours and styles of beer. This revolution was largely led by brewers such as Jean-Marie Rock and Marc Counson, who were determined to create beers that were unique to Belgium and could not be found anywhere else.

One of the most popular beers created during this period was Saison, a light golden ale with a slightly bitter and acidic taste. This beer was first brewed in France but quickly gained popularity in Belgium, where it remains a popular style today. This beer is especially popular during the summer months as it is light and refreshing.

Belgian brewing also became known for its specialty beers, such as Witbier, a light wheat ale spiced with orange peel and coriander, or Trappist beers which are brewed by monks in abbey breweries within Belgium. These beers are highly sought after by beer enthusiasts around the world for their distinctive flavours and aromas.

One of the more recent developments in Belgian brewing has been the emergence of fruit beers made with cherries, raspberries or even damsons. These fruit beers have become increasingly popular in recent years and can be found in bars and shops throughout Brussels and across Belgium.

Visiting Brussels for Beer Enthusiasts

For beer enthusiasts, there is no better place to visit than Brussels. The city is home to many world-renowned breweries such as Cantillon, well regarded for their Lambic beers, Gueuze and Kriek varieties; Orval brewery, known for their Trappist ales; and Leffe brewery, famous for their Abbey ales.

The Brouwerij t’Ij is one of the most popular breweries in Brussels and is a great place to visit for beer drinkers looking to find out more about Belgian brewing. It is located next to the Windmill Park, which provides the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic lunch on a sunny day. The brewery also offers visitors a tour giving an insight into the brewing processes involved with making its various beers.

The Cantillon Brewery is one of the oldest breweries in Brussels and produces some of the finest Lambic beers in existence. Visitors to this brewery can take guided tours of the facility as well as sample some of their delicious beers from the onsite bar. Guided beer tasting sessions are also available for those looking to discover more about Belgian brewing traditions.

If you’re looking for a more interactive experience then why not try out a Belgian Beer Workshop with Tasting? This activity takes place at one of Brussels’ leading breweries and includes beer tastings as well as hands-on advice from experts on how to brew your very own unique beer. It’s an unforgettable way to discover more about this vibrant city’s beloved beer culture! Book your experience now at Viator!

To conclude, Brussels’ beer culture is deeply rooted in tradition but continues to evolve as new styles are developed and new techniques explored by passionate brewers from across Belgium and around the world. Whether you’re looking for a light summery saison or a strong Trappist ale there is something for everyone here in this vibrant city. From exploring traditional breweries to participating in interactive workshops, Brussels has something for every beer fan to explore!