LCBO Food & Drink Travel 2025

HOP CULTURE

Brussels, Belgium Belgian beer culture is central to the country’s identity; the country has been producing hopped beers since the 14th century. Its significance was recognized officially by UNESCO in 2016. The country is renowned for its distinct varieties, including dubbel (brown beer), saison, fruity lambics and brews from abbeys and Trappist monasteries. Belgium is also considered ground zero for sour beers, now trending in North America.

TASTE

Westmalle Tripel LCBO 676577, 330 mL, $5.45

This is a strong ale that doesn’t shy from bold flavours. Think clove, coriander and caramel, coupled with creamy texture and a long finish.

Rodenbach Classic LCBO 15152, 500 mL, $3.55

Pucker up. Aged in oak casks, this fermented sour ale boasts complex, wine-like traits. Dis cover notes of cherry, balsamic vinegar and raspberry.

Früli Strawberry Beer LCBO 380923, 4 pk, $17.00

Here’s a great example of Belgian fruit beer with ripe strawberry flavour. It has a pleasing effervescence and works well served with fruit pie.

EXPERIENCE Beer lovers gather in the Grand Place (above) of Brussels each September for Belgian Beer Weekend (Sept. 5 to 7, 2025), during which more than 500 beers from 50-plus breweries are offered. Need more options? Go to Delirium Café , which has more than 2,000 beers available, earning it a Guinness World Record. Immerse yourself in the beermaking history and technology at Belgian Beer World , an interactive museum with a rooftop patio boasting stellar views of the city. To deepen your appreciation of the local scene further, book the Belgian Beer Tasting Experience . Over an hour, you’ll learn the basics of brewing, why glass shapes matter, plus how to identify different styles and taste beer correctly.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JORG GREUEL/STONE VIA GETTY IMAGES (GUILDHALLS); BY JEAN-PAUL REMY, COURTESY OF VISIT BRUSSELS (BEER WEEKEND)

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———————— TRAVEL 2025