Belgium is one of the most important beer countries in the world. Not because it produces the most beer, or the loudest beer, but because it has quietly perfected styles that brewers across the globe still look to for inspiration.

Belgian beers are not about chasing trends. They are about balance, yeast-driven character, and depth of flavour. Some are light and refreshing, others rich and warming, but almost all of them have a personality you simply do not find elsewhere.

If you are curious about Belgian beer, this is not a full technical guide. Instead, think of it as a bucket list. Six Belgian beer styles that every beer lover should try at least once, each represented by a standout example from our current Belgian collection.

Belgian Blond

Try at least once because it is the perfect introduction to Belgian beer

Belgian Blond ales are often where people fall in love with Belgian brewing. They look approachable in the glass, golden and inviting, but offer far more depth than you might expect from their appearance.

Blonds are typically smooth and balanced, with gentle malt sweetness, subtle spice from the yeast, and a dry, clean finish. They are deceptively drinkable and show just how important yeast character is in Belgian beer.

Featured beer: Delirium Tremens

Belgian Blonde Ale, 8.5%, 330ml

Delirium Tremens is one of Belgium’s most recognisable beers, and for good reason. It pours golden with a lively carbonation and delivers a malty backbone layered with spicy, yeast-driven flavours. Despite its strength, it remains remarkably balanced and drinkable, making it a perfect example of why Belgian blondes deserve a place on every beer lover’s list.

Tripel

Try at least once because it redefines what a strong beer can be

Tripels are one of Belgium’s most famous contributions to the beer world. Pale in colour, strong in alcohol, and packed with complexity, they often surprise first-time drinkers who expect something heavy and overpowering.

A great Tripel is light on its feet, highly carbonated, and full of fruity and spicy notes from fermentation rather than hops.

Featured beer: Westmalle Tripel

Belgian Tripel, 9.5%, 330ml

Often regarded as the benchmark for the style, Westmalle Tripel is a masterclass in balance. It pours a deep golden colour with a creamy white head and offers aromas of fruity esters, spicy phenols, and subtle floral hops. On the palate, flavours of ripe fruit, caramel, and clove come together in a beer that is complex, warming, and incredibly refined.

Tasting notes: fruit, caramel, clove

Dubbel

Try at least once because it showcases the maltier side of Belgium

Dubbel beers are darker, richer, and more malt-forward than Tripels, but they are no less elegant. Traditionally brewed by monasteries, they focus on depth rather than strength, with layers of caramel, dried fruit, and soft spice.

These are beers made for slower drinking and quiet appreciation.

Featured beer: La Trappe Dubbel

Belgian Dubbel, 7.0%, 330ml

La Trappe Dubbel delivers a strong body and intense flavour while remaining smooth and approachable. Rich caramel flavours dominate, supported by dark malt character and gentle warmth. It is a classic example of how Belgian brewers create complexity without overwhelming the palate.

Belgian Strong Dark Ale

Try at least once because it shows Belgian brewing at its most powerful

Belgian Strong Dark Ales are where strength and complexity truly meet. These beers are deep in colour, high in alcohol, and incredibly layered, yet they remain balanced and surprisingly drinkable for their size.

They are perfect for sipping, sharing, and special occasions.

Featured beer: Rochefort 10

Belgian Dark Ale, 11.3%, 330ml

Rochefort 10 is widely regarded as one of the finest Belgian beers ever brewed. Dark, rich, and warming, it delivers intense flavour while remaining remarkably dry for its strength. The high alcohol content provides a gentle warmth rather than heat, making this a beer to savour slowly and thoughtfully.

Saison

Try at least once because it is unlike almost anything else

Originally brewed as a farmhouse beer, Saison was designed to be refreshing, dry, and thirst-quenching. Modern examples still reflect that heritage, offering bright carbonation, peppery spice, and a crisp finish.

Saisons are incredibly food-friendly and often appeal to drinkers who enjoy dry, characterful beers.

Featured beer: Brasserie Du Pont, Saison Du Pont

Belgian Saison, 6.5%, 330ml

Often considered the definitive Saison, Saison Du Pont is zesty, hoppy, and beautifully balanced. Aromas of citrus and fresh bread lead into a dry, refreshing palate with gentle spice and complexity. It is a beer that feels both rustic and refined at the same time.

Witbier

Try at least once because Belgian beer is not always strong

Witbier proves that Belgian beer can be light, refreshing, and sessionable while still being full of character. Brewed with wheat and often spiced with citrus peel and coriander, Witbiers are soft, cloudy, and perfect for warmer days.

They are also an excellent entry point for those new to Belgian beer.

Featured beer: Blanche De Bruxelles

Belgian Witbier, 4.5%, 330ml

Blanche De Bruxelles is soft and smooth on the palate, with subtle citrus notes and a surprising spicy finish. Light, refreshing, and full of flavour, it shows how Belgian brewers can create complexity at lower alcohol levels.

Start with One, Discover the Rest

Belgian beer is not about ticking off every style in one sitting. It is about discovery, curiosity, and finding the flavours that speak to you. Whether you start with a classic Blond, a rich Dubbel, or a refreshing Witbier, each style offers a different window into one of the world’s great brewing cultures.

Explore our full Belgian beer collection here to discover these styles and find your own Belgian favourites.