Witbier

Witbier (Dutch for 'white beer') is one of Belgium's signature beer styles. Unlike German Hefeweizen, which relies entirely on yeast for its flavour complexity, Witbier adds spices and citrus to the brewing process — typically coriander seeds and orange peel (often Curaçao orange). The wheat is unmalted (unusual in beer), giving Witbier a distinctive softer, slightly more tart character than other wheat beers. The style was rescued from extinction in the 1960s by Pierre Celis, who founded Hoegaarden — now the global benchmark for Witbier. The style has been widely adopted globally and now exists in many countries, including India where Bira 91 White and similar wheat beers follow the Witbier template.

Witbier should be served cold but not ice cold (4–6°C). The spice and citrus notes need a little warmth to come through. Pour into a tulip or weizen glass; the wide bowl preserves the beer's complex aromatics. Witbier pairs exceptionally well with seafood, salads, and lighter Indian fare — papdi chaat, sev puri, and light chicken preparations all complement the citrus-spice character. Avoid heavy meat dishes — Witbier is too delicate to compete.