Taste of Belgium's Over-the-Rhine bistro just became the fifth place in the United States to offer Duvel beer on draft.
Duvel is "a strong golden ale originally brewed in 1918 to celebrate the end of World War I" and is "known as one of the best biers in the world," according to TOB. It was previously only available in bottles until 2018.
The Belgian brew is created using double fermentation and is first held in tanks "just below the freezing point and then again in the bottle to bring its final ABV up to 8.5%," says a release. The beer requires high levels of carbonation, which is why Duvel's bottle has its iconic shape.
The issue with serving Duvel on draft was how to ensure the quality and carbonation from a tap. The beer has to be served from a unique draft system and poured at a 45-degree angle so there isn't too much foam or gas.
The draft system was introduced in Europe last year and in America just recently. TOB OTR is now the fifth location in the U.S. to have the very-selective draft system, which Duvel must approve.
“After visiting Belgian Bier Weekend last year in Brussels and seeing Duvel on Draft for the first time I knew this was something that we needed to bring to Taste of Belgium,” said Jean-Francois Flechet, owner of Taste of Belgium, in the release. “We are on a mission to introduce our guests and bier lovers to the most interesting Belgian biers, and we are extremely excited to have the opportunity to partner with Duvel to bring this unique experience to Cincinnati."
Duvel is the latest addition to TOB's more than 30 Belgian beers on draft. TOB OTR is located at 1135 Vine St., Over-the-Rhine.
