The Belgian-style blonde ale is typically easy-drinking, with a low but pleasing hop bitterness. This is a light- to medium-bodied ale, with a low malt aroma that has a spiced and sometimes fruity-ester character. Sugar is sometimes added to lighten the perceived body. This style is medium in sweetness and not as bitter as Belgian-style tripels or golden strong ales. It is usually brilliantly clear. The overall impression is balance between light sweetness, spice and low to medium fruity ester flavors.
Belgian-Style Blonde Ale
Category: Belgian Styles
Food Pairings
- Sweet and Sour Chicken
- Brie
- Angel Food Cake
Commercial Examples
- Blonde, Allagash Brewing Co.
- Tiburon Blonde, Marin Brewing Co.
- Solid Gold, Cannonball Creek Brewing Co.
Appearance
Color
Pale to Light Amber
Clarity
Clear to Brilliant
Carbonation (Visual)
Medium to Fast Rising Bubbles
Flavor/Aroma
Alcohol
Mild to Noticeable
Hop
Hop flavor and aroma are not perceived to low. Hop bitterness is very low to low
Malt
Malt aroma and flavor are low
Esters
Low to medium fruity-ester aromas may be present and balanced with light malt and spice aromas
Phenols
Spicy
Sensations
Body
Soft to Moderate
Carbonation
Medium to High
Finish Length
Short
Attenuation
Medium - High
Ingredients
Hops
Hallertau
Malt
Pilsner, Malted Wheat, Aromatic
Water
Varies
Yeast
Ale
