The story behind Allagash Brewing Co.
In the bustling Portland, Maine, a good day in the 90s, an enthusiastic brewer named Rob Tod threw himself into the feat of filling a void in the world of beers. With a great passion for Belgian beers, Rob realized that the Birras of the Old Continent did not make the leap to US lands. So, in 1995, he decided to create his own beer paradise and founded Allagash Brewing Co., where the star would be Allagash White, a Witbier refreshing who quickly conquered the hearts of beer lovers.
Useful expert tips: improving your Witbier
1. The magic of the malts
The key to a great Witbier begins with the choice of malts. Opt for clear malts, with a color less than 2.0 ° L. This is crucial to prevent your beer from having an unattractive appearance, similar to abandoned pond water.
2. What about yeast?
The yeast is the soul of your beer. Without a careful selection, you could ruin a great recipe. The best strains include Wyeast 3942 (Belgian Wheat) and Wyeast 3944 (Belgian Witbier) among others. In addition, you do not underestimate your role in the appearance: serving your Witbier with a little yeast can give it a lovely cloudiness.
3. Oatmeal: your secret ally
Adding oats to your recipe is like inviting a friend to the party: it will improve the texture of your beer, providing a silky feeling to the palate that will make your Witbier memorable.
4. Spices to Gogo!
Do not be afraid to experiment with spices. The coriander and the bitter orange peel of curacao are classic, but exotic spices such as cumin or cardamom can take your beer to a new level of originality. Just remember: You’re not cooking a curry, so don’t exceed!
5. Heat, heat, very heat
Finally, do not be afraid to increase temperatures during fermentation. It begins around 16.7 ° C and, towards the end, it slowly rises to 23.9 ° C. This will allow your yeast properties to shine and that beer develops its distinctive character.
Brindis by creativity
Creating your own Witbier does not have to be a monotonous task. With these tips in mind, experimenting in the process can lead you to exciting discoveries. So, gather your ingredients and prepare your utensils, the next great Witbier is just a lot of distance!
