Another response to Belgian consumers’ increasing shift towards pilsners, Moortgat developed what was originally a darker version, called Duvel, the Flemish word for Devil, which slowly evolved into the paler beers we know today. Duvel remains the standard for the style, and many instances of the style reference the devil in their names.
- ABV 7.5-10.5%
- IBU 22-35
- SRM 3-6
- Glassware Tulip
- Serving Temp 4-7°C
It pours pale yellow to gold, clear, effervescent, and has a large head that lasts. The aroma here is complex, but the fruity esters, especially pear, are front and center. The hops are low and herbal or spicy, the phenols and the alcohol are low and perfumy, and the malt is basically neutral. It’s a light or medium bodied beer but the carbonation is fierce, making it seem even lighter. Alcohol is smooth, but it’s there, and you’ll know it. The flavour is a continuation of the aroma, with medium to high bitterness lingering into the dry finish.