Invented for the Liége exposition of 1905 to compete with British imports, the Spéciale Belge or Belgian pale ale style marries the complexity of Belgium’s beers to the drinkability of Britain’s pale ales. Dageraad Amber’s light malty sweetness and rich bouquet of malt and stone fruit are balanced by a hoppy aroma and a crisp finish. This beer was inspired by the experience of enjoying a freshbolleke − Antwerp locals’ affectionate nickname for a glass of De Koninck − in the Dageraadplatz, just a stone’s throw from the De Koninck Brewery.

Pairings

Flavourful and complex enough be interesting, but not so intense as to demand constant attention, Amber is an easygoing pub companion and an excellent pairing beer. Its rich malt flavour will compliment savoury-sweet dishes, including Indian and Malaysian curries, braised meats, barbecue and pub fare. The beer’s crisp finish and moderately high level of carbonation helps scrub the palate clean, preparing the drinker for the next bite of food.

Dageraad Amber is unfiltered.