Trying to like Belgian beers

[Flee15]

I am trying to expand into Belgian beers, but can't get past the 'clove' taste. Are there any good examples that do not have the 'clove' taste, or should I give up?

Also, are there any Belgian yeast strains that will limit/exclude the clove character? I was thinking maybe WLP530 fermented low initially before raising for attenuation.

TIA

 

[Kee]

The good news if you want to brew a Belgian style is that those esters are not that easy to achieve. WY1388 is one that I use a lot. I would not worry about too much clove. Pitch at the low range.

Moinette Blonde is milder (flavor wise) than Duvel and not crazy at all like Delirium tremens and others.

 

[rmyurick]

You're trying to brew one? or just find some that you like?

I personally love Westvleteren 8, but you can't get it in the US.

Have you had a Belgian Pale Ale like a deKoninck or Palm? They are pretty straight-forward, easy-drinking beers. Duvel and Westmalle Trippel I don't believe have much clove flavor, it's more bubblegum/orange peel. Duvel is dangerously drinkable for an 8% abv beer.

 

[Flee15]

Both. If had St. Bernardus abt, chimay white, Brother Thelonious and were all good. My MIL gave me a sixer of Petrus? never heard of it, but they were good as well.

 

[helibrewer]

Have you considered Dubbels or Quads? They tend toward dark fruit. There are some wonderful recipes on the candisyrup.com website when you want to brew your own.

 

[Kee]

Oh, and don't forget about Orval, which is in kind of a class by itself. Try some.

 

[Demus]

Gulden Draak is nice too. My favorite Belgian to date was Kwaak. Come to think of it, I haven't tried many I haven't liked. And can't remember one that had a strong clove character...


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