Belgian-Style Strong Dark Ale
Belgian and French Origin Ale · Brewers Association 2025
- OG
- 1.064 – 1.096
- FG
- 1.012 – 1.024
- ABV
- 7.1 – 11.2 %
- IBU
- 20 – 50
- Color
- 8 – 35 SRM
- CO₂
- – –
Notes
These beers are often (though not always) brewed with dark Belgian candy sugar. Herbs and spices are sometimes used to delicately flavor these strong ales. These beers are typically well attenuated with a deceptive alcoholic strength.
Color
Amber to very dark
Clarity
Chill haze is acceptable at low temperatures
Malt aroma & flavor
Medium to high malt aroma and complex fruity aromas are distinctive. Medium to high malt intensity can be rich, creamy, and sweet. Fruity complexity along with soft roasted malt flavor adds distinct character.
Hop aroma & flavor
Low to medium
Bitterness
Low to medium
Fermentation character
Yeast-derived phenolic spicy flavors and aromas are present at low to medium-low levels. Diacetyl is usually absent in these beers but may be present at very low levels.
Body
Medium to full
Brew to this style
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Style guideline data is the work of its respective publishers, reproduced here for reference: BJCP · Brewers Association · Norbrygg · SHBF · Danske Øldommere.