Belgian Strong Pale Ale
The alcohol can sometimes hide deceivingly within the flavors of these generally light-bodied, yet strong ales. Brewers often add a light colored Belgian candi sugar to the beer, which gives the yeast more “food” (fermentable sugars) to produce higher alcohol (and CO2) without adding more body to the beer, as malt additions generally do. Belgian yeast strains produce complex fruity aromas and flavors punctuated by a mild malt and hop character. Phenolic spiciness and brewer additions of spices can add additional levels of complexity.
Recommended Glassware:
Color Range:
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Taste/Smell | Complex, Fruity Esters, Spicy, Light to Medium-bodied |
| Alcohol-by-Volume (ABV) Range | 7 – 11% |
| Bitterness (IBU) | 20-50 |
| Popular Examples | Duvel, Delirium Tremens, Achouffe La Chouffe, Malheur 10, Biere du Boucanier Golden, North Coast Pranqster, Brooklyn Local 1, Epic Brewing Brainless Belgian-Style Golden Ale, The Bruery Mischief, Lagunitas A Little Sumpin’ Wild, Goose Island Matilda, Unibroue Don de Dieu |
| Serving Temperature | Cool, 46-54° |
| Glassware | Beer snifter, stemmed tulip, large wine glass |
| Cheese Pairing Ideas | Triple Crème |
| Food Pairing Ideas | dishes, roast game, pork and fish dishes |
