De Koninck is part of the fabric of the city of Antwerp. The De Koninck brewery has been operating in Antwerp since 1833, though it was sold in 2010 to Brouwerij Duvel-Moortgat, but still operates independently. This beer was first introduced in 1913, and is the official beer of the city.
The distinctive glass (or more tecnhically the shape of the glass) for this beer is known as a ‘bolleke’, though the locals will just order a bolleke at the bar knowing it will be filled with De Koninck.
Stylistically this beer is a Speciale Belge. Although the label shows the annogram ‘A.P.A., its just a play on words, with the label showing ‘Antwaarpse Pale Ale’.
The beer pours a clear, copper colour with a foamy white head that will last to the very last sip – if you pour the beer correctly!
There is caramel malt, a little fruitness, banana and then a sustained bitterness that really dries the beer out, leaving you ready for the next mouthful. Take yourself on a trip to Antwerp, at least for the time it takes to enjoy this beer.