Are you a beer lover looking for something refreshing and light? Look no further than witbier! This popular Belgian wheat beer is known for its citrusy, spicy and aromatic flavors. In this article, we’ll explore the history, recipe, and best brands of witbier.
History of Witbier
Witbier, also known as “white beer,” has been brewed in Belgium for centuries. It was originally made by monks who used wheat, barley, and oats to create a cloudy, light-colored beer. Witbier fell out of favor in the 1950s, but it made a comeback in the 1960s when Pierre Celis began brewing it in his barn. Today, witbier is a popular style of beer that is enjoyed around the world.
Witbier Recipe
Witbier is a refreshing and light beer that is perfect for warm weather. Here’s a recipe to make your own witbier at home:
Ingredients:
- 4 lbs. of Belgian wheat malt
- 1 lb. of flaked oats
- 1 oz. of Hallertau hops
- 1 oz. of Saaz hops
- 1 oz. of coriander seeds
- 1 oz. of orange peel
- Belgian witbier yeast
- Water
Instructions:
- Heat 1.5 gallons of water to 122°F.
- Add the Belgian wheat malt and flaked oats to the water and stir until the temperature reaches 152°F. Hold the temperature for 60 minutes.
- Sparge with hot water until you have 6 gallons of wort.
- Boil the wort for 60 minutes, adding the Hallertau and Saaz hops with 15 minutes remaining.
- Add the coriander seeds and orange peel with 5 minutes remaining.
- Chill the wort to 68°F and transfer to a fermenter.
- Add the Belgian witbier yeast and let ferment for 1-2 weeks.
- Bottle or keg the beer and let carbonate for 2 weeks.
Best Brands of Witbier
If you’re not up for brewing your own witbier, there are plenty of great brands to try. Here are some of the best:
- Hoegaarden: This is perhaps the most famous witbier brand. It has a sweet and citrusy flavor with hints of coriander and orange peel.
- Allagash White: This American-made beer has a spicy and fruity flavor with notes of clove, banana, and citrus.
- St. Bernardus Wit: This Belgian beer is slightly hoppier than other witbiers, with a floral and spicy flavor.
- Ommegang Witte: This New York-made beer is brewed with orange peel and coriander, and has a slightly sour and spicy taste.
Conclusion
Witbier is a refreshing and light beer that is perfect for warm weather. Whether you’re brewing your own or trying a popular brand, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this popular Belgian beer style. By understanding the history, recipe, and best brands of witbier, you’ll be able to appreciate all that this beer has to offer.
“Drinking a witbier is like taking a walk in a field of fresh flowers on a sunny day.”
Unknown
