Buy Belgian Dark Strong Ale & Quadrupel

They are among the most coveted beer styles in the world, are closely linked to monastic brewing, and impress with their profound depth and complexity. Belgian dark strong ales and quadrupels are masterpieces of artisanal brewing – and available for direct delivery to Switzerland from TheCrafts.ch.

What are Belgian dark strong ales?

Belgian dark strong ales are among the most complex beers in the world. Their character is shaped by a wide range of esters and occasionally some phenols from Belgian yeast. This is majestically intertwined with the opulent malt depth, delivering dried fruit, cocoa, and bread aromas, while caramelized sugar introduces notes of rum raisins and sugar beet syrup, as well as a pleasant sweetness. Alcohol is often distinctly noticeable, and carbonation is usually strong.

Recipe and brewing method

For the complexity of these beers, their recipes are surprisingly simple. It is the brewing process and yeast that shape the character. Usually, Pilsner malt and some wheat, dark or caramel malt, as well as various sugars are used. Dark candi sugar provides color, flavor (caramel and dried fruit), and increases the alcohol content, resulting in drier beers.

Each yeast strain is unique and an essential part of the flavor. The beers are usually refermented and matured in the bottle before sale. They age very well: after a few years, they develop vinous, sweeter notes with more dried fruit character.

What is a Quadrupel?

Quadrupels are the strongest beers in the range of Belgian monastic breweries. The term Quadrupel was only coined by La Trappe monastery in 1991 – even though the beer tradition behind it is centuries old.

A well-known example is Rochefort 10: The 10 does not refer to the alcohol content, but comes from an old Belgian unit of measurement for indicating the density of the mash. It is a beer unanimously recognized as one of the best in the world.

The most important representatives

Westvleteren XII

The world's most famous Quadrupel from the Abbey of Sint-Sixtus. 10.2% ABV, limited, hard to get. Notes of plums, chocolate, honey, and herbal spice. Available at TheCrafts.ch.

Rochefort 10

11.3% ABV, dark brown, with intense dried fruit and caramel character. One of the most accessible great Quadrupels. Buy Rochefort 10.

Rochefort 8

9.2% ABV, slightly lighter than the 10, but of the same class. Chocolate, red fruits, fine spice. Ideal for an introduction to the Quadrupel universe.

Chimay Blue (Grande Réserve)

9% ABV, the world's most famous Trappist beer in the Quadrupel variant. Fruity, spicy yeast, subtle bitterness. Ideal for beginners.

Food Pairing

Belgian dark strong ales harmonize with strong flavors:

• Blue cheese (Roquefort, Gorgonzola) – the sweetness of the beer balances the intensity
• Dark chocolate (70% and above) – classic combination
• Braised meat & game dishes – especially Bündner game specialties
• Dried fruits & nuts – support the dried fruit notes in the beer

Drinking temperature and glass

Quadrupels unfold their full aroma at 12–16°C in a bulbous chalice glass. Never serve ice cold – cold suppresses the delicate aromas.

Shop Now

TheCrafts.ch curates a selection of the best Belgian Quadrupels and dark strong ales – from the warehouse in Chur, delivered in 2–3 working days throughout Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

A video for beer sommeliers (English):