Beware the Belgian Beer!

Beware the Belgian Beer! It will knock you off your feet or your seat. It's not quite an old Flemish proverb, but not far off. These are a strong breed of beers with a delicate taste. The champagne of beers. Highly refined flavors and bouquets paired with around a 8-11% alcohol content make for an addictive beverage.

I first discovered this golden type ale called Piraat in an alehouse. I had paired it with a bison burger. I ordered it on tap, which is still the best for any ale (fresh from the cask). The beer was presented in an unusual tulip shaped beer glass. It might feel a little unmanly, but it opens the complex aromas of the beer and enhances the flavor, just like a good wine. 

That first taste stunned me. Not from the alcohol content, but from the aromatics and subtle nuances in the flavor of the ale. It paired perfectly with the entire meal, never being dominated by other flavors. 

It's good from the bottle too. Look for it at Bevmo or other better liquor stores. Don't get me wrong, I still recommend drinking if from the tap if possible.

So, take your Tulip glass in hand, take a sip and forget the days of Bud and Coors. You found an ale as good as wine.