Not what you would expect. At least that is how Brouwerj Rodenbach advertises its beer. The dark red beer combines many opposites: for example, it is brewed in a very traditional way, but tastes completely untraditional. It also looks strong and powerful, but is light and fresh. And the color does not give any indication of the taste. Rodenbach celebrates the expectations that never come true and the moments when expectations are exceeded.
Here’s to a cool Alexander !
Living culture
Brouwerij Rodenbach has its roots in nineteenth-century Belgium: in 1821, the doors of the first Brouwerij Rodenbach opened in Roeslare. A lot has changed since then, but not the way in which the beer is brewed at Rodenbachs. Since 1878, the beer has been bottled in barrels and matured there to produce a beer with a very special, unexpected taste. This way of brewing and aging beer is very typical of West Flanders and has its origins in the Flemish red-brown ale, a beer that is popular all over the world and has won countless awards. The oak barrels, some of which have been in the brewery's halls for more than 150 years, have now been declared industrial heritage and can be visited.
Award-winning
The first prize that Brouwerij Rodenbach received for its beer was awarded to them in 1894. At the World Exhibition in Antwerp, they were awarded a gold medal for the outstanding taste of their Rodenbach Classic. Their winning streak has continued ever since, and their current crowd favorite, Alexander , has also won international awards. This Flemish sour beer goes excellently with earthy game and forest dishes such as venison or mushrooms. At 5.6% ABV, it is quite light and is a perfect accompaniment to heavy, strong dishes. Another special feature of Rodenbach beers is the mixed fermentation: this involves mixing mature, "old" beers with fresh, "young" beers. In this respect, the beers are similar to wine, and the sour beer style is also reminiscent of sour, slightly fruity wine in terms of taste.
