Belgian ales are really about creating a simple yet elegant malt base upon which the unique Belgian yeast strains can create their wonderful, complex flavors. This Belgian Ale is their equivalent of our pale ale in alcoholic strength and body. The difference is that the hops are very subdued and only complimentary where as in many American beers hops can create a majority of the flavor profile. One is not better than the other just different, and we love diversity in beer.
Terms used to describe Belgian Ales include phenolic, fruity, with the occasional clove, plum, and banana flavors coming through. Sometimes you just have to try one to understand. In the Dubble and Triple you will have some higher alcohol flavors coming through. This version is less alcoholic and highly drinkable.
Any of the four Belgian yeast strains that we carry from Whitelabs could be used in any of the Belgian recipes. They are all excellent in their own right. The malt extract for this kit is made entirely from our German Pilsner Malt, giving it authentic European flavor. We use turbinado sugar to help up the alcohol and dry out the beer during fermentation.
The extract version of this kit does NOT include grains. Most of the flavor from this beer is derived from the yeast and fermentation.