Duvel Moortgat Duvel 8.5% Belgian Ale Review

Craft Beer Review: Duvel Moortgat / Duvel (8.5%)

This article is based on a past tasting experience, updated in June 2025.

About This Beer

Characteristics

Haze to the point where you can barely see through to the other side.

Availability

Year-round.

Where to Buy

Available at shops carrying Belgian beer. I bought mine at Tanakaya in Mejiro (目白).

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Beer Review

Appearance

Hazy enough that you can barely see through to the other side.

Aroma

Orthonasal Aroma

Complex, almost scientific aroma. Strong esters. Reinforcing spice notes, grassy hops. Sharp alcohol. Honey-like resin notes that a beetle would love. Hop-derived greenness, lemon notes, peel and grassiness are present, but esters dominate. Rather than being intentionally crafted, the esters are Belgian yeast-derived. The solvent quality (ethyl acetate) is intense. As it warms, an apple-like greenness mixes with vinegar notes reminiscent of shime-saba (marinated mackerel). Underneath, a medicinal quality in the cooled alcohol.

Retronasal Flavor

Medicinal sweetness. Alcohol presence. Slightly hop-derived marmalade.

Taste

Mouthfeel

Somewhat gentle? A malt-driven touch on the palate.

Body and Texture

Just as a hint of malt cookie character arrives, the ethyl acetate solvent note intensifies dramatically. Followed by pineapple (isobutyl acetate?) and sour apple (ethyl caproate, ethyl caprylate?). A scientific ester party — very enjoyable. On the tongue, hop-derived bitterness is strong from the start rather than building gradually. After swallowing, strong malt richness remains. A slightly toasted bread-like aroma. Combined with hop bitterness. Like spreading marmalade jam on toast on a lazy holiday morning while the rest of the family does the dishes nearby.

The Swallow

Alcohol presence comes through a bit strong.

Aftertaste

A somewhat strong alcohol finish. Plus marmalade notes. Water. Not dry, yet not clingy either. Love how the finish unfolds.

Overall Impression

Classic Belgian character is on full display, while hops provide a sturdy foundation — that’s what makes it interesting. The 8.5% ABV is hard to detect, making it very drinkable.

Dregs

Intense solvent notes and hop-derived citrus. If there were a hop-flavored detergent, this is what it would smell like. Compared to the aroma, the taste is yeast-forward, with slight astringency and almost no bitterness.

Overall Rating

Where to Purchase

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Craft Beer Review: Duvel Moortgat / Duvel (8.5%) — FAQ

Craft Beer Review: Duvel Moortgat / Duvel (8.5%) — What does it taste like?

Craft Beer Review: Duvel Moortgat / Duvel (8.5%)はcraft beer style beer. Please see the full article for a detailed review of the taste, aroma, and appearance.

Craft Beer Review: Duvel Moortgat / Duvel (8.5%) — Where can I buy it?

It may be available at specialty craft beer shops or online stores. If hard to find, check out Recommended Craft Beers for other great options.

craft beer — any other recommended options?

We review many craft beer on this site. Complete Guide to Dank IPAやDDH/TDH Beer Explained for more.

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