Discover New Belgium Beertje: A Historic Belgian-Style Spiced Ale Tribute
Step into the rich, storied history of American craft brewing with an extraordinary and historic new release from New Belgium Brewing, proudly operating out of Fort Collins, Colorado, and Asheville, North Carolina. Introducing New Belgium Beertje Belgian-Style Spiced Ale, a meticulously crafted tribute that bridges European brewing heritage with pioneering American craft beer culture. Coming in at a balanced 6.5% ABV and packaged in classic 12-ounce cans, this spiced ale is designed to transport your palate straight to the cobblestone streets of Belgium while celebrating the legendary origins of one of America’s most beloved craft breweries.
The Origins of New Belgium Beertje Spiced Ale
Every iconic brand has a foundational story, and for New Belgium Brewing, that journey began back in 1989. Co-founder Jeff Lebesch embarked on a legendary bike ride across Belgium, immersing himself in the country’s rich, centuries-old brewing traditions. The absolute pinnacle of this transformative European expedition was a fateful stop at a renowned, cozy Belgian beer bar nestled in Bruges known as ‘t Brugs Beertje.
While sitting inside ‘t Brugs Beertje, Jeff spent hours talking and tasting exceptional Belgian beer alongside co-owner Jan De Bruyne. It was during this exact cultural and sensory immersion that Jeff knew with absolute certainty he had to bring authentic Belgian-style beer back home to the United States. Just two years later, New Belgium Brewing was officially born. Alongside iconic flagships like Fat Tire and a portfolio of innovative recipes, that initial spark changed the face of American craft beer forever.
Now, New Belgium is honoring that profound origin story with Beertje Spiced Ale. Featuring classic, nostalgic packaging that depicts the historic storefront of ‘t Brugs Beertje, this special release serves as a heartfelt ode to the incredible “beerhouse” where it all began.
Flavor Profile and Complex Ingredient Composition
Crafted with supreme dedication to traditional European brewing methods, New Belgium Beertje is much more than just a commemorative release, it is a deeply complex, flavor-forward culinary beer experience. To capture the authentic essence of a classic Belgian-style spiced ale, the master brewers at New Belgium have incorporated an intricate blend of traditional culinary spices and botanicals.
- Coriander: Adds bright, citrusy, and earthy undertones that lift the aromatic profile.
- Fennel: Imparts a subtle, sophisticated hint of sweet anise and herbal complexity.
- Mace: Provides a warm, aromatic spice note reminiscent of nutmeg, adding depth and velvety smoothness to the body.
- Black Peppercorns: Delivers a gentle, warming kick on the finish that balances the malt sweetness and complex spice blend.
Pouring a brilliant golden-amber hue beneath a pillowy white head, Beertje marries traditional Belgian yeast characteristics with this sophisticated botanical array. At 6.5% ABV, it offers a wonderfully rounded mouthfeel, combining bready Belgian pilsner malts with spicy aromatic flourishes that linger harmoniously on the palate. Santé to friends in beer, Belgian beer tradition, and American craft beer lore. Stay tuned for official nationwide release dates, distribution formats, and comprehensive tasting notes as this historic can hits shelves.
Label Text New Belgium Beertje:
“Ingredients & Spices: Brewed with coriander, fennel, mace, and black peppercorns
Inspiration & History: Commemorates co-founder Jeff Lebesch’s 1989 bike ride across Belgium and his pivotal visit to the legendary Bruges beer bar ‘t Brugs Beertje, where he met co-owner Jan De Bruyne and discovered the Belgian beer style that inspired New Belgium Brewing.”
About New Belgium Brewing Company
Founded in 1991 in Fort Collins, Colorado, by Jeff Lebesch and Kim Jordan, New Belgium Brewing Company has grown from a basement operation into a towering beacon of American craft beer innovation and environmental sustainability. Driven by a deep-seated passion for Belgian-style brewing traditions discovered during a life-changing bicycle trip through Europe, the brewery introduced iconic masterpieces like Fat Tire Amber Ale to the world, forever altering the landscape of independent brewing.
Over the decades, New Belgium has expanded its footprint while fiercely maintaining its commitment to world-class quality, employee ownership, and corporate responsibility. With a state-of-heds brewing facility established in Asheville, North Carolina, the company serves beer enthusiasts across the nation with a diverse, award-winning lineup of creative brews, sour ales, hop-forward IPAs, and historic specialty releases. Beyond crafting exceptional liquid, New Belgium has consistently led the manufacturing sector in progressive environmental stewardship, achieving B Corp certification and championing climate advocacy, renewable energy, and zero-waste operational goals.
As a trailblazer in both flavor innovation and corporate ethics, New Belgium Brewing continues to honor its roots while pushing the boundaries of what a modern craft brewery can achieve. Whether you are enjoying a crisp pale ale in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains or savoring a complex spiced seasonal release in the Blue Ridge Mountains, every glass reflects a steadfast dedication to community, culture, and uncompromising brewing excellence.
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