Belgian Styles in the States

Prior to visiting Europe, I had a difficult time identifying with Belgian beers. While I knew I was in the minority, as Belgian Ales and Belgian styles are very popular in the states, I figured that once going to Belgium I would develop a taste for them. Sure enough, I was right.

While I do miss being able to grab a St. Bernardus, Westmalle,or Chimay without spending a fortune, there are plenty of American breweries who brew Belgian style beers. While back in the states I have decided to see how the American interpretations hold up to the originators. Here are a few noteworthy Belgian style beers brewed here in the States and French Canada.


Boulevard continues to impress, I don't think that I have had beer from them that I have not enjoyed. Their Quad was by no means traditional, as it had a very interesting floral note overtone to accompany the traditional flavors of dark fruits and spice. Look for The Sixth Glass in their new four pack format, as 12 ounce bottles are much more affordable and allow you to try more beers. Boulevard also brews a Bourbon Barrel Quad, nicknamed BBQ, that I have been dying to get my hands on. Definitely an American spin on an already amazing Belgian style, I hope to find it before heading back to Europe.

Boulevard: The Sixth Glass: Quad: 10.5%abv: Kansas City, MO.

 Unibroue arguably rivals the great beers in Belgium. Considering that they are located in French Canada, it would not surprise me that they have their roots in Flanders (Northern France/Southern Belgium). Their beers are widely available in the States and incredibly affordable at places like World Market and Trader Joes. They are also the brewers of Trader Joe's Vintage Ale that everyone loses their mind for in the winter. Trois Pistoles, french for Three Towers, is an incredibly creamy and smooth strong dark ale with a nice balance of chocolate, rich malts, and a hint of spices.

Unibroue:Trois Pistoles: Belgian Strong Dark Ale: 9%abv: Quebec, Can.

Another brewery that I always look forward to trying beers from has their hands deep in the wonderful world of Belgian style beers. Midnight Sun had an interesting take on the Strong Dark Ale. I am not sure if it is intended to be a hybrid of an Imperial Stout and Belgian Strong Dark Ale or if the mouthfeel and chocolate note was a result of some aging to this bottle. With a rich malt presence, solid milk chocolate notes and a touch of spice and breadiness from their Belgian yeast strain, this was an interesting and very smooth beer!

Midnight Sun: Monks Mistress: Belgian Strong Dark Ale:11%abv:Anchorage AK.