Belgian white beer is indeed a type of wheat beer. It is a traditional Belgian style that is characterized by its use of both malted barley and unmalted wheat in the brewing process. The combination of these two grains gives the beer its unique flavor and appearance.
In the brewing world, wheat beers are categorized based on the percentage of wheat used in the grain bill. Belgian white beers typically have a higher percentage of wheat compared to other wheat beer styles, such as German hefeweizens. This higher wheat content contributes to the beer’s light and refreshing character.
The use of unmalted wheat in Belgian white beer is also a distinguishing factor. Unlike malted barley, which has gone through the malting process to convert its starches into fermentable sugars, unmalted wheat retains more of its natural starches. This can give the beer a slightly different mouthfeel and contribute to its cloudy appearance.
Another key aspect of Belgian white beer is the addition of spices. Traditional recipes often include spices like coriander and orange peel. These spices add complexity and a subtle citrusy aroma to the beer, complementing the wheat and malt flavors.
Hops are also used in the brewing of Belgian white beer, but in a much smaller quantity compared to other beer styles. The focus of this style is not on hop bitterness, but rather on the balance of flavors between the wheat, malt, and spices. The low hop bitterness allows the other flavors to shine through, resulting in a smooth and easy-drinking beer.
It’s worth noting that there can be variations within the Belgian white beer style. Some brewers may experiment with additional grains, such as oats or spelt, to add further complexity to the beer. These variations can result in subtle differences in flavor and mouthfeel, but the core characteristics of a Belgian white beer remain the same.
Belgian white beer is indeed a type of wheat beer. It is made with a combination of malted barley and unmalted wheat, with a focus on a light and refreshing character. Spices are added to enhance the flavor, while hops are used sparingly to keep the bitterness low. The result is a delicious and distinct beer style that is loved by many beer enthusiasts around the world.