La Chouffe is the main beer produced by Brasserie d’Achouffe. Achouffe products are famous for the gnome/elf who adorns their bottles and signs. The gnome is a famous character from the folklore of the Ardennes Forest in southeast Belgium. While many Belgian breweries can trace their history for centuries, Achouffe, founded in 1982, is a relative newcomer but has grown to be one of the more famous Walloon breweries. In 2006, the original owners of the brewery decided to sell Achouffe to the Moortgat family, makers of Duvel.

La Chouffe has long been one of my favorite Belgian ales, and one that was kind of hard to find. It was a rare treat, especially if you found it on draft. Now, with the marketing power of Duvel Moortgat, it’s becoming more readily available. Become friends with the Belgian Gnome, you won’t be sorry you did!

Appearance: Hazy blonde with gold tones and an off-white head. Good retention.

Aroma: Coriander, lemon creme, fresh grass, touch of herbal basil character, estery fruitiness.

Taste: Light white pepper notes, phenolic spice. Spicy, Crisp, fruity finish.

Overall Impression: La Chouffe has a long, slightly sweet and spicy finish. Great, spritzy effervescence which creates a very velvety mouthfeel. La Chouffe is a Belgian classic, and a must try beer if you’re wanting to try an excellent Belgian blonde ale.

Food Pairing: Think bright flavors like citrus. The spicy nature, high carbonation, and balanced flavor make this is fairly versatile option for pairing with food. Citrus oriented salads, ceviche, white fish (Halibut), chicken would all pair nicely with La Chouffe. This beer should allow you to get creative without too much fear of going astray.

Availability: Nationally at better beer stores. Imported by Duvel Moortgat USA.

8%

You can read more about Brasserie d’Achouffe at my page dedicated to them.

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