Belgian beers have long been renowned for their complexity and depth of flavour, and one of the most popular styles is witbier. This style, which translates to "white beer" in English, is characterized by its light body, cloudy appearance, and spicy notes of coriander and orange peel. Witbier has a rich history dating back centuries, and today, Arbor's Sumac Wit offers a unique twist on this classic style.
But first, a little history on Belgian witbier, to truly appreciate the beer. This style emerged in the Middle Ages when brewers in the town of Hoegaarden began adding wheat to their beer to create a lighter, more refreshing alternative to the heavier, maltier beers that were popular at the time. The use of wheat gave the beer a hazy appearance, which led to its name, "white beer." Over time, Belgian brewers began experimenting with different spices and flavours to enhance the character of their witbiers. One of the most popular ingredients was coriander, which added a spicy, citrus-y note to the beer. Orange peel was also a common addition, lending a bright, refreshing flavour to the beer's finish.
Arbor's Sumac Wit pays homage to this rich history while adding sumac into the mix. This tart and tangy spice is native to the Middle East and has been used in cooking for centuries, but it's a relatively new addition to the world of beer. Arbor's Sumac Wit combines the traditional witbier recipe with a generous amount of sumac, which gives it a bright, citrus-y flavour that is perfectly balanced by the beer's natural sweetness.
The result is a beer that is both familiar and exciting, with a zesty kick that makes it perfect for summer sipping. The hazy, golden appearance of the beer is inviting, and the aroma of coriander and sumac is both spicy and sweet. On the palate, the beer is light and effervescent, with notes of orange and coriander dancing across the tongue. The sumac adds a subtle tartness that balances the sweetness of the malt, creating a beer that is both refreshing and complex.
Arbor's Sumac Wit is the perfect beer for any occasion, whether you sip on it on a sunny afternoon or enjoy it with a meal. Its light body and refreshing flavour make it an ideal choice for pairing with seafood, salads, or spicy dishes. The addition of sumac makes it a beer that stands out from the crowd, appealing to beer enthusiasts who are always on the lookout for something new and exciting.
So the next time you're in the mood for something light, citrus-y, and refreshing, give Arbor's Sumac Wit a try - you won't be disappointed!
Cheers!