- This article is about Leffe, the beer brand. For the village, see Leffe, Italy.
Leffe is a Belgian beer, based on an Abbey beer (The Abbey Notre-Dame de Leffe). Regarded by many as the premium example of a fine sophisticated ale.
History
The Abbey Notre Dame de Leffe was founded in 1152 on the river Meuse in the province of Namur in southern Belgium. Like many monasteries across Europe, the monks of the abbey brewed beer. Using knowledge passed from generation to generation and ingredients found in the wild near the abbey, the monks have developed a unique beer, brewed only on location.
The Abbey itself knew many a hard time as it was damaged by both natural and human circumstances over the spun of years. The outbreak of the french revolution in the area has resulted in the abbey being deserted and the brewery destroyed.
In 1952, the production of beer was continued after a partnership with a Brussels based brewery. The brewery was later bought by the international beer company Interbrew which owns other high-end brands like Beck's and Hoegaarden.
While Leffe is not manufactured in the abbey itself anymore, the knowledge and unique taste developed over hundreds of years has been kept and is still felt today.
Different types of Leffe
Available in Blonde (6.6% ABV), Brune (6.5% ABV), Triple (8.4% ABV), Radieuse (8.4% ABV) and Vielle Cuvee (8.4% ABV).
- Leffe Blonde is a dry, fruity, lightly spiced beer and is quite full and creamy.
- Leffe Brune is more rich and profound then Leffe Blonde. It is slightly less fruity and tends to be heavier then Blonde.
- Leffe Triple is stronger beer (8.4% ABV) with a very rich taste that has hints of orange, vanilla and lemon.
- Leffe Radieuse and Leffe Vielle Cuvee are both strong beers with a very dominant fruity taste. Radieuse tends to be more fruity while the Vielle Cuvee is creamy.
Serving and drinking
The proper serving and drinking of a Leffe is an accurate and complex ritual that owes to the historical heritage and culture of Belgian beers.
The beer must be poured into a genuine, clean, chalice-type Leffe glass with the logo facing the costumer. The beer is to be drunk at the temperature of 5° Celsius.
Leffe is recommended to be drunk slowly as to enjoy and savour its rich taste and aroma.
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