Brown Ale
Historical background
The term brown ale has its origins in the 18th Century, long before it was revived in the 19th Century by Mann, the original manufacturer of beer brands that takes the name of Belgian brown ales (beer) today. Most North American ales can trace their collective heritage to adaptations of certain Northern English beers by American home brewing firms. Before the World War II, Mann’s brown ale had a gravity of 1.043 degrees and had about 3% ABV. Although many strong brands of ale died after the World War II, some brown ale beers like Mann’s brown ale is still in existence today and contains around 3% ABV.
Physical Appearance
Belgian brown ales have a deeper color than that of amber ales and just like their name implies, can range from light to dark brown.
Taste
Belgian brown ales are distinguished from other brands by their taste. They are not as acidic as other beer brands and have a more malty taste. Other differences between the different brands of brown ales may be stronger aromas, citrus accents, medium bodies or variance in bitterness.
Liefmans Goudenband
Flemish Brown Ale
This sour ale is often argued to having the same style as Flanders red ale. However, their colors differ. For example, Flanders red ale has a deeper color than brown ale and is sweeter. However, most of the brands of Flemish brown ale are not blended. Nevertheless, some are blended with older ales and sweetened to improve their flavors. On average, Flemish brown ale has an ABV of around 5.5%. In addition, it has different aromas that are usually fruity, floral or tart.
Delirium Tremenes
Delirium Tremenes
This brand is a quality product from Brouwerij Huyghe in Belgium. The product was first launched on December 26, 1989. It had a high ABV of 9% which made it one of the more stronger beers out there. However, in 2003 the ABV was reduced from 9% to 8.5%. Its colorful label and original packaging makes it stand out in the market. Additionally, it has a unique taste by using three types of yeast during it’s brewing. Also, it has been nominated for the best beer in the world in prior competitions.
Lifmans Brew
Lifmans Brew
This is a very popular brand of Belgian brown ales (beer) that is characterized by its hand-wrap paper instead of conventional labels. The brands of this ale are made with cherries and raspberries. Interestingly, according to lovers of the brand, many prefer the raspberries brand because it tastes good. In addition, these brands are either sweetened or non-sweetened. The sweetened ones have a lower ABV value.
