The term craftbeer, or craft beer, conjures up images of small breweries, unique recipes and a passion for quality over quantity. But what exactly makes a beer “craft”? And how does Belgium, with its rich beer culture, fit into this global phenomenon? In this blog we delve into the origins, characteristics and role of Belgium in the craft beer movement.
The origin of craft beer
The term “craft beer” became popular in the United States in the 1980s. It was a response to the mass production of beers by large industrial breweries. Small, independent brewers began making unique, flavorful beers that differed from the standard lager. This trend quickly spread to countries such as the United Kingdom and Netherlands, where experimentation with traditional and new beer styles were embraced.
What makes a beer “craft”?
Although there is no universal definition, craft beers are typically characterized by:
• Craftsmanship: The brewing process is central, with attention to quality and craftsmanship.
• Smaller scale: Most craft breweries produce relatively small quantities of beer.
• Independence: Many craft breweries operate independently of major beer companies.
• Creativity: Unique ingredients, innovative techniques and bold flavor combinations are typical.
Belgium: a pioneer and a follower
Belgium is known worldwide for its beer traditions, such as Trappist beers, lambics and abbey beers. But how does this age-old beer culture fit into the modern craft beer landscape? Belgium has actually always brewed “craft”, although it was not called that in the past. Many Belgian brewers have traditionally been small, independent professionals with unique recipes.
The modern craft beer movement has also gained a foothold in Belgium. Young brewers in particular are experimenting with international styles such as IPAs, stouts and sours, often with a Belgian twist. Think of an IPA with Belgian yeast, or a stout matured in Belgian jenever barrels.
Influences from other countries
Belgium remains true to its traditions, but is open to influences from other countries:
• United States: Hop-forward beers such as IPAs have inspired the Belgian beer world. Many Belgian craft brewers are now working with aromatic hop varieties and experimenting with double and triple IPAs.
• United Kingdom: The love of ales and stouts has contributed to a resurgence of dark beer styles in Belgium.
• Netherlands: Dutch beer culture, with its focus on experimentation and barrel aging, has also stimulated Belgian brewers to innovate.
Belgian craft breweries to discover
Belgium may be known for its traditional beer styles, but the country is also bustling with young, innovative craft breweries. Here are some gems you should definitely discover:
• Skollmann Brewery: This brewery takes creativity to the next level level with modern beers that play with flavors and aromas. From hoppy IPAs to surprising barrel-aged creations, Skollmann knows how to combine traditional and contemporary techniques.
• Deca Brewery: With a history dating back to 1880, Deca Brewery is a mix of tradition and innovation. They are known for their full and complex beers such as Georges IV, and are increasingly experimenting with new styles like sours and barrel-aged beers.
• Brouwerij De Meester: This West Flemish brewery is known for their refined beers such as Meesterlijk Blond and their hoppy variants. De Meester combines classic Belgian elements with international trends, making their beers appealing to a wide audience.
• Brasserie de la Senne: An established name within the Belgian craft scene. They are known for their dry, characterful beers such as Zinnebir and Taras Boulba, which stay true to traditional Belgian flavors, but with a modern twist.
• The Musketeers: This brewery knows how to combine Belgian traditions with international trends. Their Troubadour range, such as the Troubadour Magma (Belgian IPA), is an example of how versatile Belgian beers can be.
• Hof ten Dormaal: A unique farm brewery that uses their ingredients literally from our own soil. Their beers, such as the Barrel Aged Project range, are loved for their experimental and authentic character.
• Alvinne Brewery: Specialist in sour beers with their unique “Morpheus yeast.” Alvinne puts Belgium on the map with international successes and their groundbreaking cuvée beers.
• Flying Horse Brewers: This brewery makes barrel art aging. Their well-known Préaris Quadrupel and various experiments with wooden barrels have earned them a strong reputation.
This is just a selection from the Belgian craft scene. Each brewery contributes in its own way to the rich tapestry of flavors and styles that continue to renew Belgian beer culture. Go on a voyage of discovery and be surprised by the versatility of Belgian craft beers!
Craft beer: a journey of tradition and innovation
Craftbeer stands for freedom, experimenting and challenging conventions, but in Belgium also for respecting age-old traditions. As Belgian brewers continue to perfect their unique beers, they are also inspired by the global craft beer movement. The result? A vibrant beer culture where tradition and innovation go hand in hand.
Do you want to discover the world of craft beer yourself? Start local, support independent breweries, and taste how craft and creativity come together in every glass. And thanks to BeerBuddy.be you can of course also have these craft beers delivered to your home!
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