Blanche de Namur

by Brasserie Du Bocq

Witbier is one of the classic Belgian beer styles.  And while Hoegaarden is undoubtedly the most well-known of Belgium’s witbiers, I reckon this is hands down the best witbier from Belgium.

From a Wallonian brewery which has been independent and family owned for more than 165 years, this beer is a multi-award winner in its style.

It is cloudy, straw yellow in colour, with a huge snow white head.  It smells inviting - lots of orange zest and coriander, along with the yeast.

The beer virtually explodes in the mouth, the carbonation making it seem as though the yeast is fermenting on your tongue.   Citrus flavours are mixed with the gentle spices, as the light malt backbone offers enough sweetness to be tempting but is still crisp and fresh.

My main criticism of witbiers is that the flavour disappears quickly, and compared to other beer styles that is still true of this beer.  But comparing it in its own style division, this beer just seems to have more flavour than most.

Strangely I think this is a style that suits the Australian climate, but witbiers are notoriously hard to sell here.  But surely this beer can tempt the adventurous drinker into trying more beers of this style?

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