Duvel

Duvel is brewed at Duvel Moortgat Brewery, established in 1871, in Puurs, Belgium, between Antwerp and Brussels. The history of Duvel is closely linked to the Duvel Moortgat family brewery founded in 1871 by Jan-Leonard Moortgat in Puurs, Belgium. After World War I, Jan-Leonard’s son Albert decided to brew an English-style ale and went off to Scotland in search of a sample of the local yeast. Even today, yeast from that original source is always used. The beer was going to be called “Victory’” in honor of the British troops who had just liberated Belgium; however, after sampling the first batches, the brewers described it as “een echten duvel” or “a real devil.” And the name stuck. From 1923 onward, the beer was known as “Duvel,” which is local Flemish slang for Devil.

Pronounce it “DOO-vle,” with the accent on the first syllable, if you want to sound Flemish, or Doo-VEL, with the accent on the second syllable, if you favor the French-sounding version. Both are used in Belgium, so feel free to pick your own.

DUVEL

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Duvel

Before Duvel, there was no Strong Golden Ale. Duvel, with its fair appearance, smooth complex taste and 8.5% alcohol by volume brooding beneath, spawned the category. These seemingly opposing characteristics result from Duvel’s three fermentations, the use of premium Pilsner malts, and time. From brewing to shelf takes about three months. This allows a good deal of maturation, particularly in the bottle where the third fermentation takes place. Michael Jackson, The Beer Hunter, described Duvel as “having astonishing sophisticated character” and as being “one of the world’s most distinctive and individualistic beers.”

ABV: 8.5%


Duvel Tripel Hop

Unique one-off, made with three kinds of hops: Styrian Goldings, Saaz and Amarillo. Dry hopped with more Styrian, and an extra dose of malts to hold up.

Best With: The fragrant bouquet and spicy flavor of pale ale lends to this beer?s ideal match with generously spiced foods such as Southern barbeque, wasabi crusted Japanese dishes, and curry based Indian dishes. This style is also the perfect complement to grilled meats, burgers, and pizza.

ABV: 9.5%