By: Billy BeerSlugger
It’s funny that Hoegaarden is regarded as the premier witbeer these days. Even some of my friends will split a case of it at a BBQ or guys weekend. I don’t really regard it as much of a session beer so I really can’t reason why someone (without ovaries) would get a whole case of it, but that’s neither here nor there.
What I wanted to focus on is how and why has Hoegaarden become the preeminent White Beer in America. It’s pretty much standard in any non-corner bar in Philadelphia and has been steadily growing in popularity since i was introduced to it in 2004. I understand it’s a pretty good beer, some consider it the best Witbeer in the world. I just think this is a case of good marketing and hype over substance.
Before you get all over me for putting down your favorite beer, i do think Hoegaarden is a good beer. I just don’t think it’s good enough to be considered “The Best” White Beer. I can only view people who see it as the best white as people who have yet to sample the best of the Witbeers. Plus it’s so hip and cool right now it makes me want to throw up on my Birkenstocks.
In my travels I sampled a bunch of White Beers and I’ve even profiled one or two on BeerSlugger.com so far. I can proudly say that up to this point Allagash White is the best Witbeer I have ever had (queue Hoegaarden backlash). I’m not the only one either, BeerAdvocate lists Allagash White as an A- whilst they list Hoegaarden as B+.
I’ll agree that Hoegaarden is the archetypal White Beer but like a cover song that turns out to be better than the original, Allagash just does it better. I find Allagash much fresher tasting (probably because it’s brewed in America). Most American interpretations of the Witbeer style lack a certain amount of acidity but Allagash get’s it pretty much right on.
So next time you’re at the bar and a friend, relative or colleague orders a Hoegaarden you now have something to talk about. Allagash White. And if you’re looking to be a little more individualistic and beer snobish than your friends, rock an Allagash White instead of Hoegaarden. If you ever have the chance to sample Allagash White I reccomend highly that you do so. You will not be disapointed. Plus it’s American.
Available in: 12 oz and 750 ml bottles, 15.5 and 5.17 gal kegs
ABV: 5.0%
Original Gravity: 1048
Recommended Serving Temp: 34°F to 50°F
I’d like to do a taste test between Allagash and Hoegaarden – My gut tells me I like AW better but I’ve never had them back to back. Another great Belgian beer is Delirium Tremens.