Maredsous Blond 6 33cl

This golden-hued abbey beer could be considered as one of the most traditional of Belgian beers. It has a pedigree that stretches back to before the French Revolution. During that time, many Belgian abbeys ceased to exist, and their associated communities with them. But some – like the Benedicts that founded Maredsous Abbey – survived to be re-established later on. And so the light of the abbey beer tradition is part-reflected in the golden glints of this fine beer.

Maredsous Blond was first brewed in order to quench the monks’ thirst, when they were having lunch after a hard morning's labour. So all is done in moderation. It is slightly-malted Belgian blond, with a zesty fruity taste, and a dry, mildly-hopped finish.

The initial scent is one of honey with a slightly smoky aroma. The taste is beautifully rounded, enhanced by a subtle touch of caramel. So the Maredsous Blond drinks as a near-perfect combination of aroma and taste, where quality hops and malt – and a characterful yeast – greet one another cordially.

The Maredsous Blond is not overly bitter, but it has a distinctively hoppy flavour. All of this then culminates into a satisfyingly clear finish. It's a combination that makes the Maredsous Blond a versatile all-rounder.

It's a superb thirst-quencher that stands out somewhat from the crowd; a great table companion that adds to the enjoyment of a substantial main course; and a solid palate-cleanser for an abbey cheese, or a range of patisseries, to round off the meal. A beer, in other words, that makes friends everywhere.