How many times have you spotted the incredible and highly recognisable glass of a Kwak Beer? 

And how many times have you been tempted to try it, just to see what the esthetic was all about? 

Whether you’re already familiar with the characteristic taste of this amazing spicy Belgian beer or not, there’s a lot more to this delicious brew than a fancy glass. Like most beers from Belgium, this one has quite the tale behind it…

Why Is It Called Kwak Beer?

While it seems like a quirky and fun name, there is actually a very practical reason behind it. The recipe for Kwak beer was created in the 18th century by Belgian innkeeper and brewer Pauwel Kwak. He was first to come up with the winning formula for the spicy dark beer we are so fond of, and it took its name from him.

But Pauwel’s talent didn’t stop at crafting his namesake beer.

Back in his age and time, the Napoleonic code forbade coachmen from drinking beer when passengers were aboard their carriages, and they often had to come up with clever solutions to drink their pints without breaking the law.

That’s when Pauwel, whose inn, the De Hoorn, was located in a strategic area between Mechelen and Gent, came up with the idea of designing a glass -the koetsiersglas – that could be fitted in the carriage’s structure. And yes, that’s the very same design from which you are enjoying your Kwak beer today!

All About The Recipe…

Although Pauwel Kwak laid the solid foundation for the beer we know today, the recipe has changed throughout the years.

It wasn’t until 1980 when Brouwerij Bosteels acquired this beer, that Kwak became known to the general public and gained its distinctive taste and characteristics.

From the esteemed Bosteel Brewery, what makes a Pauwel Kwak what it is today is, of course, the recipe. Being a top-fermented beer, it has a surprisingly strong ABV (8.4%!) and it’s generally recognisable thanks to its notes of liquorice and spices. 

In order to get the perfect formula, every Kwak beer is fermented for five to six days and then matured for a further month. After the maturation process, it’s filtered and delivered right to your doorstep.

How To Drink A Kwak…

Although we find it to be extremely delicious under every possible circumstance, we advise you to serve it chilled at 5-6 degrees celsius.

And of course, why not go for the full Belgian experience and