Belgian Blonde Ales
What You Need To Know
Again this is one of these vague categories and a relatively new category that has significant commercial importance. Stylistically you could say that Belgian Blonde Ale has the strength of an Abbey Dubbel with the appearance and character of a Trippel. It is often consumed as a hearty session beer being the ale Belgian Ale lover's answer to Pils. These Ales are pale to deep gold and almost always cloudy with a thick, creamy, white head. The nose is mildly spicy with classic fruity Ale characteristics including scents of wild honey, orange, and fresh bread dough. Belgian Blonde Ales are often slightly sweet on entry and drying as the palate evolves, kept dry with mild hops notes, a soft spice impression (anise, coriander, and clove), and citrus notes. These Ales should not be confused with Belgian Strong Golden Ales which often look much the same but as the name would suggest they pack a punch and most certainly are NOT intended to be session Beers, although I have treated them as such and suffered dearly the morning after.
Classic Examples of the Style
Val-Dieu Blond, Belgium
Leffe Blond, Belgium
Rubens, Belgium