Belgian Golden Strong Ale and Hops Suitable for Crafting an Ale-mazing

Reading Time: around 19 min

Belgian Golden Strong Ale: a deceptive name for a cheeky brew, don’t you think? This potent potable packs a wallop, cloaked in a beguiling golden hue. It’s like the Clark Kent of beers.

But instead of a cape, it’s got a killer ABV.

On the level that’ll have you chatting up statues in no time.

Choosing the right hops for this mischievous ale is like picking a dance partner. It’s all about compatibility. You want hops that bring out the best in the beer without stepping on its toes.

So, you’re not just tossing in any old hops.

You’re looking for the perfect plus-one to complement that fruity, spicy profile.

Typical of a Belgian Golden Strong Ale.

Key Takeaways

Belgian Golden Strong Ale is a high-ABV brew with a seductive golden color.
Selecting the appropriate hops is crucial for perfecting this beer’s complex flavor.
Your aim is to find hops that enhance, not overpower, the ale’s spicy and fruity goodness.

Defining the Style

Before you venture into the effervescent world of Belgian Golden Strong Ale, know this. It’s a style that packs a punch with elegance. And the hop choices are as critical as the yeast that ferments it.

Main Characteristics

Hoppy aromas: Fruity, spicy, sometimes with a whisper of hops
Malty aromas: Complex with a sweet malt backbone and a dry finish
IBU bitterness: 20 to 50
Alcohol level: 7.1% to 11.2% ABV
SRM color range: 2 to 7

Essence of Belgian Golden Strong Ale

Imagine you’re sipping sunshine with a kick.

That’s Belgian Golden Strong Ale for you.

You’ve got a beer that’s pale, intoxicatingly strong (hello, deceitful drinkability!). And with a sparkle that could outshine a disco ball. It’s the life of the party in a glass, with Duvel being your quintessential example.

It’s the overachiever of its class.

This ale is a high-octane joyride with a bouquet of fruity and spicy notes. Delivered courtesy of a yeast strain that’s probably been partying since the Middle Ages.

The Origins of Belgian Golden Strong Ale

Once upon a time, in Belgium, a beer was born to give you both a taste of heaven and a feel of might. It first gushed forth in the early 20th century. Seeking to prance on the same stage as the popular Pilsners but with a Belgian twist.

Enter the victory ale. A brew with a strength that could sedate a horse and finesse that would make a wine blush. It was an instant star. Delirium Tremens, you’ve met your forefather!

Historical Milestones:

Early 1900s: The style emerges in Belgium
1970s: Duvel refines and popularizes the style globally

Comparison with Other Beer Styles

If Belgian Golden Strong Ale went to high school, it’d be the charismatic valedictorian who also moonlights as a gymnast. You’d find other beer styles like Stouts and Porters lounging in the back of class. Heavy and brooding with their dark malts.

Our Belgian friend, however, stays light on its feet while still pulling off a sneaky high alcohol content. Unlike its strapping cousin, the darker Belgian Strong Dark Ale.

Friendly Rivalry:

IPA: Hop-forward with a bitter edge, less emphasis on yeast character
Belgian Witbier: Light and zesty with less alcohol, more focus on wheat and spices

Belgian Golden Strong Ale Characteristics

You’re about to get the scoop on why Belgian Golden Strong Ales are the bee’s knees. These brews are a tightrope walk of flavor, balancing just right on your taste buds.

Balancing the Ingredients for Optimal Flavor

Buckle up, because the right mix of ingredients is key. You want that classic strong, dry character without a punch in the palate. Think fruity and spicy with a touch of cane sugar or honey to round it out.

The goal? A harmony of tastes that sings like a choir of boozy angels.

Sugar Balance: Keep it sweet, but not too sweet. Use Belgian candi sugar for depth.
Spice: A pinch of pepper here, a whisper of clove there, and hey, you’ve got magic.

Aroma and Bouquet

A sniff of this liquid gold and your nose is on a joyride through an orchard. It’s a fragrant basket of pears and apples. With a dash of perfume from the yeast’s esters.

Here’s how you nail that aroma:

Fruitiness: Amp up the orchard vibes for maximum sniff-appeal.
Hop Choice: Go for hops with a floral or spicy tickle. They’re the wingmen to those fruity esters.

Alcohol and Ester Interaction

The alcohol in these brews is a smooth operator. It’s strong but stealthy, flirting with the fruity esters to create that warm, fuzzy feeling. And remember, with great alcohol comes great ester responsibility.

Intensity: Aim for a boozy whisper, not a shout. It’s about finesse, not a knock-out punch.
Blend: Pair the booze and ester just right, and you’ll be toasting like a Belgian in no time.

Appearance and Clarity

Now, let’s talk looks. Your brew should be as pretty as a picture.

A nice golden hue with a clarity that makes crystal jealous. Here’s the drill:

Color: We want gold, not brass. Think sunbeam in a glass.
Clarity: Keep it clear, friend. A hazy beer is a sad beer.
Body: It should prance on your tongue like a ballerina, light and graceful.
Mouthfeel: It’s gotta pop with carbonation, giving it a lift that’s as refreshing as a breeze through your hair on a hot day.

So, there you have it. The inside track on making your Belgian Golden Strong Ale sparkle.

Keep it flavorful, fragrant, and fine-looking, and you’ll be the toast of the town.

Hops Selection Made Right

When crafting a Belgian Golden Strong Ale, you’re aiming for a delicate balance. The hops should complement, not overpower, the subtle yeast-driven complexities.

Think finesse, not brute force.

Classic Hops for Belgian Golden Strong Ale

Your Belgian forefathers likely raised a glass or two of Golden Strong Ale. Humming tunes in taverns and complimenting the harmonious use of Noble hops. Taking a page from their book, you’ve got Saaz and Styrian Golding at the top.

They’re like the dynamic duo for an authentic touch.

Saaz offers subtle floral and herbal notes.

While Styrian Golding brings a whisper of spice and a resin edge.

Key Players:

Saaz: Herbal, floral, the quintessential Noble hop.
Styrian Golding: Mild spice, resin undertones, adds complexity.

It’s like waltzing with the grains, where no one steps on anyone’s toes and everyone gets a chance to shine. Add a touch of Magnum for bitterness, and you’re setting the stage for an encore performance.

Modern Twists with New Hop Varieties

Alright, trendsetter, want to shake up the eldritch world of Belgian brewing?

Twists and turns await you with hops like Loral and East Kent Goldings.

Loral, a new-kid-on-the-block kind of hop, brings a floral bouquet with peppery notes.

A jazzy touch to the tradition.

East Kent Goldings, the British cousin with restraint, can replace some of your Noble hops for a uniquely English flair without summoning a hop invasion.

Contemporary Picks:

Loral: Floral, herbal, peppery, and oh-so-suave.
East Kent Goldings: Gentle, refined, like a British spy in a hops field.

But remember, you’re not re-writing history. Just adding a footnote with a flash of your maverick spirit. Keep it classy, and you’ll cheers to a beer that’s both a comforting nod to the past…

…and a cheeky wink to the future.

Hopping Stages and Amounts

We’re about to concoct a Belgian Golden Strong Ale that’s more magical than a unicorn with a PhD in astrophysics. This is the beer that says, “I’m strong, I’m golden, and I’ve got more charm than a basket of puppies”.

First things first: hops. In a Belgian Golden Strong, hops are like the bass player in a band. Or maybe even a tambourine. Essential but not hogging the limelight. We’re going for finesse here, not a hop dropkick to the face.

So, what’s the hop de jour? Styrian Goldings and Saaz, my friend.

The dynamic duo that’ll bring just enough spice and everything nice to your liquid gold.

Here’s the hop scoop: start with about 1.25-1.5 ounce of Styrian Goldings at the beginning of your boil. They’re the strong, silent type that’ll lay down a smooth bitterness like a velvet rug for your yeast to dance on.

But wait, don’t put away your hop scoop just yet! With about 10 minutes to go in the boil, let’s jazz it up with another 0.75 ounce of Saaz. They’re like the backup dancers in a pop star’s entourage. Not the main event, but they sure add some pizzazz.

And that’s your hop hit list! No dry hopping here.

We’re letting the yeast and the yeast do the heavy lifting.

With the hops as their trusty sidekicks. Chillax, it’s not an IPA for crying out loud.

Hops Name	Brewing Stage	Min of Oz per gallon	Max of Oz per gallon	Min of Oz per batch [5gal]	Max of Oz per batch [5gal]	Average of Oz per gallon
Saaz	Aroma	0.01	0.57	0.03	2.86	0.16
	Bittering	0.05	0.8	0.23	4.01	0.27
	Dry Hop	0.05	0.55	0.27	2.74	0.18
	First Wort	0.09	0.45	0.43	2.24	0.23
	Flavor	0.03	0.58	0.17	2.92	0.17
	Whirlpool	0.07	0.55	0.37	2.74	0.2
Saaz Total		0.01	0.8	0.03	4.01	0.2
Styrian Golding	Aroma	0.03	0.53	0.13	2.67	0.16
	Bittering	0.04	0.73	0.21	3.64	0.25
	First Wort	0.08	0.36	0.4	1.82	0.2
	Flavor	0.04	0.64	0.21	3.18	0.17
	Whirlpool	0.01	0.33	0.04	1.67	0.16
Styrian Golding Total		0.01	0.73	0.04	3.64	0.19
Hallertau Mittelfruh	Aroma	0.04	0.48	0.2	2.38	0.17
	Bittering	0.06	0.73	0.32	3.67	0.29
	Dry Hop	0.07	0.32	0.36	1.6	0.2
	First Wort	0.42	0.46	2.08	2.32	0.44
	Flavor	0.04	1	0.2	5	0.18
	Whirlpool	0.05	0.2	0.26	1	0.13
Hallertau Mittelfruh Total		0.04	1	0.2	5	0.21
Hersbrucker	Aroma	0.05	0.53	0.23	2.67	0.17
	Bittering	0.02	1.6	0.09	8	0.29
	Dry Hop	0.08	0.2	0.42	1	0.14
	First Wort	0.17	0.47	0.87	2.35	0.25
	Flavor	0.04	0.82	0.21	4.09	0.21
	Whirlpool	0.06	0.27	0.29	1.36	0.14
Hersbrucker Total		0.02	1.6	0.09	8	0.22
Magnum	Aroma	0.03	0.71	0.15	3.57	0.2
	Bittering	0.02	0.34	0.09	1.71	0.12
	First Wort	0.04	0.2	0.21	1	0.12
	Flavor	0.05	0.36	0.25	1.78	0.14
Magnum Total		0.02	0.71	0.09	3.57	0.12

Hops Name	Brewing Stage	Min of Grams per liter	Max of Grams per liter	Min of Grams per batch [20ltr]	Max of Grams per batch [20ltr]	Average of Grams per liter
Saaz	Aroma	0.05	4.28	0.93	85.59	1.2
	Bittering	0.34	6	6.81	120	2.05
	Dry Hop	0.4	4.11	8	82.19	1.33
	First Wort	0.65	3.36	13	67.19	1.71
	Flavor	0.25	4.37	5	87.37	1.29
	Whirlpool	0.55	4.11	11.1	82.19	1.51
Saaz Total		0.05	6	0.93	120	1.49
Styrian Golding	Aroma	0.2	4	4	80	1.16
	Bittering	0.31	5.45	6.24	108.93	1.84
	First Wort	0.6	2.72	12	54.47	1.54
	Flavor	0.31	4.76	6.24	95.24	1.27
	Whirlpool	0.07	2.5	1.32	50	1.18
Styrian Golding Total		0.07	5.45	1.32	108.93	1.46
Hallertau Mittelfruh	Aroma	0.3	3.57	6	71.43	1.31
	Bittering	0.48	5.49	9.52	109.9	2.16
	Dry Hop	0.53	2.4	10.7	48	1.48
	First Wort	3.12	3.48	62.41	69.57	3.3
	Flavor	0.3	7.49	6	149.78	1.34
	Whirlpool	0.38	1.5	7.69	29.96	0.98
Hallertau Mittelfruh Total		0.3	7.49	6	149.78	1.57
Hersbrucker	Aroma	0.34	4	6.81	80	1.25
	Bittering	0.13	11.98	2.64	239.65	2.21
	Dry Hop	0.62	1.5	12.48	29.96	1.05
	First Wort	1.3	3.52	26.05	70.45	1.87
	Flavor	0.31	6.13	6.24	122.55	1.54
	Whirlpool	0.43	2.04	8.7	40.85	1.04
Hersbrucker Total		0.13	11.98	2.64	239.65	1.62
Magnum	Aroma	0.22	5.35	4.35	106.99	1.52
	Bittering	0.14	2.56	2.81	51.28	0.86
	First Wort	0.31	1.5	6.24	30	0.93
	Flavor	0.37	2.67	7.49	53.33	1.08
Magnum Total		0.14	5.35	2.81	106.99	0.91

*This data consists of hundreds of thousands of manually input recipes and, despite best efforts, they may contain errors leading to very high max amounts, or be someone’s attempt for experimental brew. You should consider this data more as an overview of how different ingredients were used for different styles to get inspiration. Please do not attempt to add up different lines as it’s all about proportions.

Signature Belgian Golden Strong Ale

When crafting your Belgian Golden Strong Ale, you’re essentially the maestro of a boozy symphony. Meticulously choosing the best ingredients for a masterpiece.

Let’s dive into the golden secrets that’ll make your ale the talk of the town.

Choosing the Right Pilsner Malt

You’ll want to grab a Pilsner malt that’s as authentic as a Belgian waffle. Aim for something that gives a soft, clean maltiness to your brew. This isn’t just any malt.

It’s the backbone of your ale.

Setting the stage for those divine complexities to dance on the palate. Look for continental Pilsner malts. Their low protein and high extract content are your ticket to a crisp finish.

Recommended Pilsner Malts for Belgian Golden Strong Ale:

Belgian Pilsner malt
German Pilsner malt

Malt Name	Min of Lb per gallon	Max of Lb per gallon	Min of Lb per batch [5gal]	Max of Lb per batch [5gal]	Average of Lb per gallon
Pilsner Malt	0.03	6.49	0.17	32.45	2.02
Dark Caramel Malt	0.01	0.6	0.03	2.98	0.13
Munich Malt	0.02	3.3	0.1	16.52	0.46
Malt Extract	–	2.73	–	13.64	0.92
Wheat Malt	–	1.6	–	8	0.23
Pale Ale Malt	0.03	4.76	0.17	23.78	1.58
Aromatic Malt	0.01	1.52	0.03	7.59	0.15
CaraMunich	–	0.66	–	3.29	0.19
Cara Malt	0.01	1.16	0.03	5.8	0.16
Caramel / Crystal Malt	0.01	1.08	0.06	5.38	0.16

Malt Name	Min of Kg per liter	Max of Kg per liter	Min of Kg per batch [20ltr]	Max of Kg per batch [20ltr]	Average of Kg per liter
Pilsner Malt	–	0.78	0.08	15.56	0.24
Dark Caramel Malt	–	0.07	0.01	1.43	0.02
Munich Malt	–	0.4	0.05	7.92	0.05
Malt Extract	–	0.33	–	6.54	0.11
Wheat Malt	–	0.19	–	3.83	0.03
Pale Ale Malt	–	0.57	0.08	11.4	0.19
Aromatic Malt	–	0.18	0.01	3.64	0.02
CaraMunich	–	0.08	–	1.58	0.02
Cara Malt	–	0.14	0.01	2.78	0.02
Caramel / Crystal Malt	–	0.13	0.03	2.58	0.02

Adjuncts and Grains to Enhance Complexity

Here’s where you get to jazz things up. A dash of wheat can add a subtle, silk-like mouthfeel. While a smidge of dextrose or candi sugar can give your ale that dry and deceptively strong character.

It’s like adding a pinch of secret spice.

That has everyone begging for your recipe.

Grains and Sugars for That Extra Oomph:

Wheat: 5-10% of the grain bill
Dextrose or candi sugar: up to 20% for fermentability

Add-on Name	Min of Oz per gallon	Max of Oz per gallon	Min of Oz per batch [5gal]	Max of Oz per batch [5gal]	Average of Oz per gallon
Candi Syrup	0.36	28.49	1.78	142.43	4.43
Cane Sugar	0.8	20.03	4	100.14	5.04
Candi Sugar – Clear/Blond	0.44	16	2.18	80	4.8
Candi Sugar – Amber/Brown	0.64	29.09	3.18	145.45	4.31
Candi Sugar – Dark	0.17	14.67	0.87	73.33	3.58
Coriander Seeds	–	1.2	–	6	0.08
Corn Sugar	0.64	16.02	3.2	80.12	4.58
Brown Sugar	0.17	13.35	0.87	66.76	3.96
Honey	0.13	32	0.67	160	5.3

Add-on Name	Min of Grams per liter	Max of Grams per liter	Min of Grams per batch [20ltr]	Max of Grams per batch [20ltr]	Average of Grams per liter
Candi Syrup	2.67	213.33	53.33	4,266.67	33.2
Cane Sugar	5.99	150	119.83	3,000.00	37.78
Candi Sugar – Clear/Blond	3.27	119.83	65.36	2,396.53	35.92
Candi Sugar – Amber/Brown	4.76	217.87	95.24	4,357.32	32.28
Candi Sugar – Dark	1.31	109.84	26.14	2,196.82	26.81
Coriander Seeds	–	8.99	–	179.74	0.62
Corn Sugar	4.79	120	95.86	2,400.00	34.3
Brown Sugar	1.3	100	26	2,000.00	29.63
Honey	1.01	239.65	20.15	4,793.05	39.7

Selecting the Best Yeast Strain

The yeast, my friend, is your flavor wizard. Each strain is its own little factory of phenols and fruity esters that’ll transport your taste buds to Belgian bliss.

Pick a strain like Wyeast 1388 Belgian Strong Ale or White Labs WLP570 Belgian Golden Ale Yeast to hit the high notes of this style.

Top Yeast Strains for Belgian Golden Strong Ales:

Wyeast 1388 Belgian Strong Ale
White Labs WLP570 Belgian Golden Ale Yeast
Mangrove Jack’s M31 Belgian Tripel Yeast

Some Inspiration Yeast for Belgian Golden Strong Ales:

Belgian Ale
Trappist Ale
Belgian Strong Ale
Abbey Ale
Belgian Abbaye
Belgian Abbey
Specialty Ale
Belgian Golden Ale
Saison
Belgian Ardennes

Optimizing Fermentation Conditions

Fermentation is where the magic happens, so you gotta get this right. Keep your fermentation temperature on the warmer side to let those esters and phenols put on their show.

Aim for about 68-75°F (20-24°C).

And watch as your beer goes from good to “Where have you been all my life?”

Fermentation Temperature Range:

Start at 68°F (20°C)
Allow to rise up to 75°F (24°C)

Tickle your taste buds with these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to Belgian Golden Strong Ale stardom. Happy brewing!

Brewing Process and Specifications

Before you dive into brewing that perfect Belgian Golden Strong Ale, know that attention to detail is your best friend here. You’re crafting something that’s strong yet sippable, complex yet smooth. Let’s break it down.

The Grain Bill and Mash Schedule

First up is your grain bill. Think pale and simple, like the understated elegance of a little black dress. Pilsner malt will be your best bud here, providing a clean canvas. To hit the mark, you’ll want to infuse some sugar.

Which is kind of the secret handshake in this beer world.

It boosts the alcohol without bulking up the body.

Now, for the mash. It’s like a spa day for your grains. A protein rest around 122°F (50°C) may seem like an overindulgence, but it’ll help you achieve a crisp, light body. So, pamper those grains before you ramp up to saccharification.

Boiling, Hopping, and Cooling Twists

Boiling is where the magic potion comes to life. You need to give your brew a good 60 to 90-minute roll to ward off any unwelcome beasties (unwelcome flavors, I mean).

Add your hops with precision. Too little and it’s bland. Too much and you might as well be chewing on a pinecone. Aim for noble varieties like Saaz or Styrian Goldings for a divine, earthy balance.

Don’t forget a pinch of Whirlfloc in the final minutes to clarify things.

Unless you’re going for that “mystic fog” look. Then it’s a quick chill because, like a good artisanal chocolate, sudden temperature drops matter.

Original and Final Gravity

Grab your specs, because precision is king. Your original gravity (OG) should hover around 1.064 to 1.096. A high starting point foreshadows a strong finish.

Speaking of the finish, your beer’s final gravity (FG) will land on the runway between 1.005 and 1.024. Leaving a satisfying dryness that lingers like the memory of a good joke.

Alcohol by Volume and Bitterness

Now onto the meat, or should I say malt, of the matter.

This is where you show off those ABVs and IBUs like a peacock strutting its numbers.

For ABV, think a mighty 7.1% to 11.2% that warms you up from the inside out without turning you into a torch. Bitterness? You’re aiming for 20 to 50 IBUs. Enough to snap to attention but not to slap you across the face.

Remember, balance is the name of the game.

It’s supposed to be spirited, not bitter.

DIY Brewing Tips

Buckle up, you’re about to bring the Belgian pub vibe straight into your kitchen.

With a homemade Belgian Golden Strong Ale that’s sure to impress your palate and pals.

Crafting Your Own Belgian Golden Strong Ale at Home

First off, throw away those preconceived notions about heavy, dark brews. Your Belgian Golden Strong Ale is light in color but packs a fiendishly strong punch. Aim to hit that 7.1-11.2% ABV sweet spot. Making sure you ferment thoroughly to reach a dry finish with some spicy notes.

Now, gather your grains.

You’ll need a good Pilsner malt base to start your brew.

But the secret’s in the sugar. Candi sugar, to be precise, which you’ll add during the boil for that authentic Belgian sweetness. And a boost to the alcohol level without the extra body.

Time for the hops, and it’s no joke, Styrian Goldings are your go-to. Known for their mild spice and resin tones. These hops will tease your ale with a hint of the ages without going overboard.

Bold Move: Keep an eye on your fermentation temperature. Because it should stay right around a cozy 68-72°F (20-22°C). A degree too cool, and you might not wake up those yeast beasts from their lazy slumber. Too warm, and you’re having a beer spa, not a beer brew.

Clone Recipes and Personal Variations

Thinking about cloning that classic Duvel?

A wise crack indeed.

Follow the blueprint – well, the recipe – but feel free to tweak. Maybe you fancy a tryst with a different hop variety, or perhaps you want to flip the script with a customized grain bill. Either way, you’re the puppet master of this puppet show.

Malt Map:

Pilsner malt: 85-90%
Munich malt (for a twist): 0-5%
Yeast food (aka candi sugar): 10-15%

Remember, the key to a brilliant Belgian Golden Strong Ale is balance and subtlety. If you go ham with hops, you might overshadow this Ale’s inner beauty. However, do experiment like a mad scientist to discover your signature brew.

Your Duvel clone can be the starting point…

…but the journey to a personal masterpiece is all yours.

Scoff at tradition or embrace it, it’s your call. The Belgian beer gods will forgive your transgressions. As long as you share a pint with them.

Packaging and Presentation

So, you’ve brewed a Belgian Golden Strong Ale that could make a monk smile.

Now, let’s talk about getting your liquid gold into a bottle with style and serving it like a pro.

Bottling with the Right Carbonation

Pop! Goes the bottle when you do it right. Your Belgian beauty needs to be carbonated precisely to dance on the tongue. Aim for a high level of carbonation, which means you’ll add just the right amount of corn sugar during bottling.

Remember, too little and your ale’s flat.

Too much and you’re running a foam party.

Here’s the game plan:

Carbonation Guide:

Target CO2 Volume: 3.0 – 4.5
Corn Sugar Amount: 130-150 g for a 5-gallon batch

Choosing Glassware and Serving Techniques

Get the fancy glasses out, it’s showtime! The ideal glass for your Golden Strong Ale is a tulip-shaped one. This beauty isn’t just for looks. It traps the aroma, and you’ll want every whiff of that. While pouring, hold your glass at a 45-degree angle, then straighten it out as you fill.

This maneuver keeps the bubbles in check and gives you the perfect head size.

Not too big, not too small. So, grab your glass and pour with flair!

Food Pairings and Enjoyment

Before diving into your next bottle of Belgian Golden Strong Ale, let’s make sure you’ve got the perfect grub on your table. The one that’ll match that heavenly brew and set the stage for a top-notch beer tasting extravaganza.

Complementing Flavors with Food Choices

Pairing food with a Belgian Golden Strong Ale isn’t rocket science.

It’s more like matchmaking for your tastebuds. Think of it as setting up a blind date with complementary flavors that might just end in falling taste-bud over heels.

Here’s a cheat sheet:

Seafood: Grilled shrimp or lobster work like a charm.
Cheese: Aim for aged gouda or a sharp cheddar for a match made in heaven.
Meats: Roast chicken or pork. Remember, this ale plays nice with subtle flavors.
Desserts: A fruit tart or good ole cheesecake makes the ale sing.

Setting the Mood for the Ultimate Experience

Hosting a Belgian Golden Strong Ale sampling shindig?

Let’s ensure your ambiance isn’t falling flat while your ale’s doing the tango on your palate. Set out those brews in a tulip glass to capture the aromatics and give a nod to tradition.

Lighting should be dim, but not ‘bumping-into-furniture’ dim. Enough to add a cozy glow. Cue some background tunes that don’t overpower your witty beer banter.

And voilà, you’re golden (just like your ale!).

Damian

A lifelong learner, hop enthusiast and a lover of the state of extreme exhaustion.

Finance Analyst in the Investment Bank and co-founder of hopsmatcher.com