La Chouffe

by Brasserie d'Achouffe (Brouwerij Duvel Moortgat)

We've had La Chouffe in the beer packs before, but it was many years ago.  And apart from it being a great beer, the real reason I’ve included it again is because it was recently packaged into cans for the first time!

We visited Brasserie Achouffe for the first time many years ago, when it was still small and owned by the founders.  It was February, snowing and bitterly cold but sitting in the small tasting area next to the log fire tasting La Chouffe and McChouffe was a fantastic experience.  The brewery has since been sold to the Duvel-Mortgaat group, and for a time the production was moved to the much larger Duvel brewery but reverted back to the original brewery after customer protests.

I think it is fair to include La Chouffe among the iconic beers of Belgium.  Anyone who has been to Belgium will have sampled the strong golden ale at some point.  And the little character Marcel is instantly recognisable.

A hazy blond colour with a nose full of Belgian yeast and coriander.  There is a grainy malt sweetness up front, with hints of yellow stone fruits.  A light and zesty mouthfeel, there is also citrus, white pepper and a pleasant lingering bitterness on the finish.

Take it to the park, the sporting field, or just enjoy at home.  This is one of Belgium’s classic beers.  As delicious and as satisfying as the first time you tried this beer, and one that will hold its place in many Belgian beer-lovers hearts.

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