With patience and hard work, the traditional Kriek may no longer be a thing of the past as Belgian brewers partner with farmers to revive growth of the Schaerbeek cherry in Brussels.
With a focus on experimentation and, especially, hops, a new generation of Belgian brewers takes its inspiration not from its Trappist or Lambic-producing forefathers, but from brewers in the US and the UK.
In bringing attention to little-known brewers from across the globe and reigniting passion for nearly forgotten styles like Gose and Lambic, the three Shelton brothers also established a company that changed the face of beer and brewing—but not without controversy.
The Belgian capital’s beer scene has grown dynamically in recent years, with young gun brewers turning out world-class brews in contemporary styles. The city’s pub offerings have been updated as well, with historic (and touristy) beer halls supplemented by more modern examples.
As Belgium’s capital region, the Brussels area is awash in the nation’s unique beer styles, from the Oud Bruins of Flanders to the bounties of Belgium’s far-flung abbeys.