Belgium is renowned for its medieval towns, scenic countryside, and rich cultural history. But there's another treasure hidden in the heart of this beautiful country: its drinks. Belgian drinks are as diverse and rich as the country's history, ranging from its world-famous beer to lesser-known spirits and beverages. If you're a connoisseur or simply curious about what Belgium has to offer, you're in the right place.
Belgium’s drinks are part of its national identity, offering something for every taste. Whether you're interested in sipping a delicious craft beer, savoring a sweet cherry liqueur, or trying a warming herbal drink, Belgium has it all. In this article, we’ll explore the best Belgian drinks that you absolutely must try. From beers to spirits, each Belgian drink tells a unique story, reflecting the country's culture, craftsmanship, and tradition.
Belgian Beer: A Global Phenomenon
When it comes to Belgian drinks, the country's beer takes center stage. Belgium’s brewing tradition dates back to the Middle Ages, and its beer culture has evolved into a global phenomenon. Belgian beer is not just beer; it’s an art form. Belgian brewers are known for their creativity, using a variety of ingredients and techniques to produce distinctive and flavorful brews.
There are several types of Belgian beer, each with unique characteristics. From the light and crisp Pilsner to the rich and complex Trappist beers, Belgian beer offers a spectrum of flavors. One of the most famous styles is the Belgian Witbier, a refreshing wheat beer brewed with spices like coriander and orange peel. Another popular type is Belgian Dubbel, a dark, malty beer that often features notes of caramel and dark fruit. Belgian Lambics are another unique beer style, fermented spontaneously, giving them a distinct tartness and complexity.
Belgian Fruit Beers: A Sweet and Fruity Experience
In addition to its iconic beer varieties, Belgium is also known for its fruit beers, which provide a sweet, refreshing experience. Belgian fruit beers are often brewed with real fruits like cherries, raspberries, and peaches, giving the beer a fruity aroma and flavor. One of the most popular fruit beers is Kriek, a Belgian Lambic that is aged with sour cherries, imparting a deep red color and tangy taste.
Another fruit beer worth mentioning is Framboise, a Lambic-style beer brewed with raspberries. This beer is typically sweet and tart, with a fruity aroma that appeals to those who enjoy a refreshing and sweet twist on traditional beer styles. Fruit beers are ideal for those who enjoy a lighter, sweeter beverage with an interesting and complex flavor profile.
Jenever: Belgium's Traditional Spirit
While Belgian beer may steal the spotlight, the country also has a long tradition of producing spirits, with Jenever being one of the most iconic. Jenever, often referred to as "Dutch gin," is a juniper-flavored spirit that has been made in Belgium for centuries. Although it’s also popular in the Netherlands, Belgium’s Jenever has its own distinct style and history.
There are two main types of Jenever: oude (old) and jonge (young). Oude Jenever is aged in wooden casks, giving it a rich, complex flavor with a smooth finish. Jonge Jenever, on the other hand, is a more modern version, often clear and crisp, with a sharper taste. Traditionally, Jenever is served as a digestif, but it can also be used in cocktails, adding a unique herbal and spicy note.
Belgian Chocolate Liqueurs: The Sweetest Sip
Belgium is world-renowned for its chocolate, and it should come as no surprise that the country has created some incredible chocolate liqueurs as well. These decadent drinks combine two of Belgium’s greatest pleasures: chocolate and spirits. Belgian chocolate liqueurs are often crafted with rich cocoa and high-quality spirits like whiskey or rum, creating a creamy, indulgent drink that’s perfect for after dinner.
One of the most famous chocolate liqueurs is the Belgian brand, Godiva. The company has produced a range of chocolate liqueurs that blend smooth Belgian chocolate with various liquors, resulting in a velvety, luxurious drink. These liqueurs are perfect for sipping on their own or using in cocktails to add a touch of sweetness and richness.
Belgian Coffee: A Taste of Belgium in Every Cup
Belgium may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of coffee, but it has a rich coffee culture that’s well worth exploring. Belgian coffee is typically brewed strong, often with a dash of cream or sugar, and served with a delicious pastry or chocolate on the side. Coffee culture in Belgium is deeply embedded in the daily routine, with Belgians enjoying their coffee in cozy cafés or as part of their morning ritual.
In recent years, Belgian coffee roasters have gained international recognition for their high-quality beans, and the country is home to some of the best cafés in Europe. Whether you prefer your coffee black or with milk, a Belgian cup is sure to delight with its smooth, full-bodied flavor.
Belgian Cider: A Crisp and Refreshing Alternative
While Belgium is best known for its beer, cider is also gaining popularity in the country. Belgian cider is typically made from apples, though other fruits like pears are sometimes used. The ciders from Belgium are often dry, crisp, and refreshing, offering a pleasant alternative to beer or wine. With their light and effervescent nature, Belgian ciders are perfect for a summer afternoon or as a refreshing drink during a meal.
One of the most popular Belgian ciders is the traditional apple-based drink called “Poiré.” Made from fermented pears, Poiré offers a subtly sweet yet tart flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Belgian cider makers use traditional methods and local ingredients to craft their ciders, resulting in a delicious and authentic beverage.
Belgian Herbal Liqueurs: A Warming Tradition
In addition to the more famous beverages, Belgium is home to a variety of herbal liqueurs that have been enjoyed for centuries. These liqueurs are often made by infusing alcohol with a combination of herbs, spices, and fruits. The result is a flavorful drink that’s both aromatic and complex.
One of the most notable Belgian herbal liqueurs is "La Bécasse," which is made with a blend of herbs and spices, giving it a rich, warming flavor. This herbal liqueur is often enjoyed after meals as a digestif, helping to soothe the stomach and promote relaxation. These liqueurs are often served neat, allowing the complexity of the flavors to shine.
Belgian Mead: The Ancient Honey Wine
Mead, one of the oldest alcoholic beverages in the world, has made a resurgence in Belgium. Traditionally made by fermenting honey with water and sometimes fruit or spices, Belgian mead offers a unique, sweet flavor that harkens back to ancient times. While mead may not be as popular as beer or spirits, it’s certainly gaining a niche following among those who appreciate its historical significance and rich taste.
Belgian mead can range from sweet to dry, and it pairs wonderfully with desserts, cheeses, or as a standalone drink. It is often seen as a celebratory beverage, perfect for special occasions or for those looking to try something different.
Conclusion: Savor the Rich Diversity of Belgium's Drinks
From its iconic Belgium drinks beers to its delicious liqueurs, Belgium’s drink offerings are diverse, rich in tradition, and full of flavor. Each beverage tells the story of Belgium's history, culture, and craftsmanship, making them a must-try for anyone visiting the country or those looking to explore Belgium's incredible drink scene from afar.
Whether you're savoring a glass of Belgian beer, enjoying a fruity fruit beer, or sipping a decadent chocolate liqueur, Belgium’s drinks offer a taste of something special. Each sip allows you to experience the country's culinary artistry, and every drink has a story to tell. So, next time you're looking for something new to try, reach for one of these Belgian drinks – your taste buds will thank you!
