The beer women of Belgium

Charles D. Cook introduces us to the femaler brewers of Belgium, and their rather excellent beers.

Brouwerij De Ryck

In 2007, An de Ryck celebrated her 30th year as the brewmaster of the appropriately named Brouwerij De Ryck. The family-owned brewery, located in Herzele (near Aalst) in East Flanders, opened in 1886. It is best known for its classic pale ale, Special (5.5%) which has been brewed since 1920, and has only water, hops, malt and yeast in its recipe.

Some exciting things have been happening at the brewery recently, as De Ryck has added quite a few new beers to its lineup.

2004 saw the introduction of Kriek Fantastiek, which is based on the Christmas Pale Ale, with natural black cherry essence added.

This was followed by Jules de Kriek, with a pleasing fruity character and light hoppines.

In 2006, a Blond Ale and Dubbel, both with 6.5%, were introduced, under the name Arend (‘eagle’ in Dutch.) The brewery just released Arend Tripel this October, which was well received at its Press release party. The Tripel is a golden blond colour, with a mild hoppy nose, malty taste and pleasant bitterness, and 8%.

The Christmas Pale Ale (5.3%, and called Winter for export) has been brewed since 1965. It is a deep amber colour, lightly roasted, and with a noticeable hop character. Caramel malts are used in this brew, which is a regional favourite. In fact, both the Special and Christmas Pale Ale were recently awarded special status by the regional Flemish government.

All the De Ryck beers are top-fermented and refermented in the bottle, in 33cl and 75cl sizes. There are.....

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By Charles D Cook

Section : Belgian Beer

Page number : 50