Hoegaarden (beer)

Hoegaarden (beer)

Hoegaarden is a Belgian beer that originated in the village of Hoegaarden in the Flemish region of Belgium. It is a wheat beer, also known as a witbier, and is famous for its unique flavor profile and cloudy appearance. In this article, we will explore the history, brewing process, and characteristics of Hoegaarden.

History

Hoegaarden has a rich history that dates back to the 15th century. It was first brewed by monks at the Hoegaarden Abbey, who used locally grown wheat and a unique blend of spices to create a refreshing and flavorful beer. The beer gained popularity in the region and became a staple in the local community.

However, the production of Hoegaarden faced a decline in the 20th century due to various factors, including the two World Wars and the rise of industrial brewing. In the 1960s, the last brewery in Hoegaarden closed its doors, and it seemed like the beer would be lost forever.

Fortunately, in the 1960s, a local milkman named Pierre Celis decided to revive the traditional recipe and bring Hoegaarden back to life. He started brewing the beer in his own farm and soon gained a loyal following. The popularity of Hoegaarden grew rapidly, and in 1985, Celis partnered with the Belgian brewing company Interbrew (now known as Anheuser-Busch InBev) to expand production and distribution.

Brewing Process

Hoegaarden is brewed using a combination of malted barley and unmalted wheat, which gives the beer its characteristic hazy appearance. The brewing process involves several steps, including mashing, boiling, fermentation, and conditioning.

During mashing, the malted barley and wheat are mixed with hot water to extract the sugars. This mixture, known as the mash, is then boiled to sterilize it and extract the flavors from the hops. After boiling, the liquid is cooled and transferred to fermentation vessels, where yeast is added. The yeast ferments the sugars, converting them into alcohol and carbon dioxide.

Hoegaarden is also known for its unique blend of spices, which includes coriander and orange peel. These spices are added during the brewing process to enhance the flavor and aroma of the beer. The use of spices is a traditional practice in Belgian witbier brewing and contributes to the distinct character of Hoegaarden.

Characteristics

Hoegaarden is characterized by its pale yellow color, cloudy appearance, and creamy white head. It has a refreshing and citrusy flavor, with notes of coriander and orange peel. The beer has a medium body and a moderate level of carbonation, making it highly drinkable.

Hoegaarden is best served in a tall, narrow glass, which helps to showcase its unique appearance and aroma. It is often garnished with a slice of orange or lemon, which adds a citrusy twist to the flavor profile.

See Also

• Wheat beer
• Belgian beer
• Witbier

External Links

• Official Hoegaarden Website