With roots dating back to 1295, St. Stefanus Blonde is the original abbey beer contracted to the Van Steenberge Brewery. To this day, it’s brewed with three different yeasts and matured for at least three months. This speciality Belgian Blonde beer is an unpasteurised, high fermented beer that is then refermented in the bottle.
As we age our beer, we constantly check to make sure it is maturing. Our Master Brewer holds regular tastings and will only release a batch when he decides it’s ready. Some of our abbey beers are stored in the cellar for longer than others. This is because our brewing process allows the beer to continue maturing for up to two and a half years. We encourage you to do the same so you can discover the different ages for yourself.
Developing character with age, your tasting experience will differ depending on how old the Blonde beer is when you choose to enjoy it.3 Months: Fresh and Fruity St. Stefanus Blonde pours a light golden colour with a good head that stays, lacing the glass as you drink it. It has a sweet caramel nose, with aromas of grapefruit, green apple, clove, cinnamon, banana and balancing hints of peach. On the palate it is balanced by a touch of sweet caramel, finishing with a dry, hoppy astringency. 18 Months: Complex and Aromatic The golden colour has deepened and warmed slightly and the head has a more delicate, mousse-like texture. The citrus fruit aromas of the young beer have become more like candied peel, with hints of apricot and mango. On the palate, the sweetness has matured into deeper, orange marmalade notes with flickering hints of vanilla, toffee and almond. Altogether it’s rounder and more complex; a beer to savour.
Our Master Brewer’s favourite way to drink St. Stefanus Blonde is “cloudy” as this is the serve with the fullest flavour and aroma. However, the final decision is up to you – you can choose how you want your beer to taste.
Discover more about the rich history of the Van Steenberge Brewery where our Belgian Blonde ale is crafted.