Belgian pale ale

Belgian pale ale is an approachable and easy-drinking beer style with a medium body that shows a good balance of malt, hops, and alcohol. It is a malt-forward style with a toasty and biscuity aroma and flavor. The examples will often have fruity notes reminiscent of pear or orange.

Their hop flavor is subtle but present, while the alcohol content is moderate, typically around 5%. The history of Belgian pale ale is not well recorded, but it is believed that a similar version was already brewed in the mid-1700s. The contemporary style was developed as an answer to lagers and light Czech pilsner.

Belgians also used pale malts and noble hops but relied on the use of Belgian yeasts. The result was a pale-colored, easy-drinking ale. The style was perfected after WWII when it gained its current character. Belgian-style pale ale would pair nicely with seafood, sausages, and light fried dishes.