Carthusian kater: The Ultimate Guide
If you’re a Belgian beer enthusiast, you may have heard of Carthusian kater. This beer, also known as ‘Het Katerke,’ is a unique, traditional beer that is brewed by the Carthusian monks in their monasteries.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take a closer look at everything you need to know about Carthusian kater — from its history and brewing process to its taste and food pairings.
History of Carthusian Kater
Carthusian kater has a long and rich history that dates back to the middle ages. The Carthusian monks, who were known for their devotion to prayer and solitude, began brewing this beer as a way to sustain themselves.
Initially, Carthusian kater was only brewed for the monks’ consumption, but in the 18th century, they began selling it to the public. Today, this beer is still brewed by the Carthusian monks in their monasteries, using only traditional methods and ingredients.
Brewing Process
The brewing process of Carthusian kater is a well-kept secret, passed down from generation to generation of Carthusian monks. However, we do know that this beer is brewed using only four ingredients – water, malt, hops, and yeast.
The monks use a unique double fermentation method, which involves fermenting the beer twice — first in tanks, and then in bottles. This results in a beer that is naturally carbonated and has a distinctively complex flavor profile.
Taste and Aroma
Carthusian kater is a brown ale that has a rich, malty flavor with hints of caramel and chocolate. It has a slightly bitter finish that is balanced out by the sweetness of the malt. Its aroma is also complex, with notes of fruit and spices.
This beer has an alcohol content of 6.5% by volume, which makes it a medium-strength beer. It is best served at a temperature of 10-12°C, which allows its complex flavors to fully develop.
Food Pairings
Carthusian kater is a versatile beer that pairs well with a wide range of foods. Its rich, malty flavor makes it an excellent accompaniment to hearty meat dishes, such as beef stew or roasted lamb.
It also pairs well with cheese, particularly aged Gouda or cheddar. For a sweeter pairing, try serving Carthusian kater with dark chocolate or caramel desserts.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Carthusian kater available outside of Belgium?
Carthusian kater is only available at select retailers within Belgium, as it is still brewed by the Carthusian monks using only traditional methods.
2. Can Carthusian kater be aged like other beers?
Yes, Carthusian kater can be aged, and some beer enthusiasts even prefer it aged for several years to allow its complex flavors to fully develop.
3. What is the best way to store Carthusian kater?
Carthusian kater should be stored in a cool, dark place at a temperature of around 10-12°C. It should be stored upright, and not on its side.
4. Why is Carthusian kater so rare?
Carthusian kater is rare because it is only brewed by the Carthusian monks themselves, using only traditional methods and ingredients. As a result, only limited amounts are produced each year.
5. What distinguishes Carthusian kater from other Belgian beers?
Carthusian kater is unique in that it is brewed using only four traditional ingredients and a double fermentation method, resulting in a distinctively complex flavor profile.
Conclusion
Carthusian kater is a unique and rare beer that has a long and rich history. Its rich, malty flavor and complex aroma make it a favorite among Belgian beer enthusiasts. If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on a bottle of Carthusian kater, be sure to savor every sip and enjoy it with your favorite hearty dish or dessert.