Witbier/White Ale
What You Need To Know
Witbier is a style of wheat beers not dissimilar in general character to Bavarian Weizen beer. Belgium Witbier differs from most other wheat based Ales in its use of raw wheat and spices, most notably Curacao orange peel and coriander. This spice mixture is historically known as gruut and used to contain a wider range of spices and no hops. The style has a deep history with records of similar recipes having been brewed in the 14th century. Witbier is cloudy, deep gold to copper in color with a thick, rocky white head. It is very refreshing and an ideal summer session Beer being enjoyed by most everyone from the aficionado to the novice.
Classic Examples of the Style
Hoegaarden, Belgium
Unibroue "Blanche de Chambly", Canada
Brwery Ommegang "Witte", USA