Old Brown / Flanders Brown Ale
Old brown ale is one of the oldest and most characterful Belgian beer styles. It is still brewed in the traditional way in the heart of Flanders. These complex, dark brown beers combine soft acidity with subtle sweetness. Discover the depth, balance and culinary versatility of old brown, and order your favorite below.
Order old brown ale online
Old brown ale is a traditional beer style originating from East and West Flanders. The name of this dark beer doesn’t refer to its age, but to its aging process. After the main fermentation, the beer matures for months in wooden barrels or stainless steel tanks.
This long resting period gives the beer its characteristic soft acidity, fruity aromas, and complex taste. Just like lambic and wheat beer, old brown ale is also perfectly suited as a base for fruit beers and infused beers.
At Belgian Beer Heaven, ordering your favorite old brown ale is quick and easy. Thanks to our extensive selection, secure packaging and fast shipping, you’ll be enjoying this unique beer style in no time, wherever you live — Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany or France.
The delightful taste of a Flemish old brown ale
What makes old brown ale so special is the balance between sourness and sweetness. Its aroma often reveals notes of cherry, plum, balsamic or wood. The flavor is refreshingly tart, with caramel hints and a slightly dry finish. Alcohol levels usually range from 5% to 6.5%, making it an approachable beer with surprising depth.
Difference between Dutch old brown, Flemish old brown and Flemish red-brown
These styles are often confused, but they differ in several ways.
- Dutch old brown is a bottom-fermented beer with low alcohol content. It’s typically made from diluted pilsner that is sweetened artificially to get its signature taste. All major Dutch breweries offer their own version, and it’s especially popular for cooking, such as in game dishes.
- Flemish old brown on the other hand, is a top-fermented beer from the Oudenaarde region. The best-known brand is Liefmans. The East Flanders version matures in stainless steel tanks, resulting in a sweeter and fuller taste.
- (West) Flemish red-brown or Flanders Red Ale is also top-fermented, but brewed in West Flanders. It matures in oak barrels and undergoes a controlled lactic acid fermentation, which brings a more sour flavor. Beers from four producers in West Flanders are officially recognized as regional products.
Wide selection of old brown ales
In our webshop, you'll find well-known names as well as hidden gems within this beer style. Some highlights:
- Rodenbach Classic: slightly sour classic with fruity notes. The benchmark of the style.
- Vichtenaar: elegant old brown with a soft balance of tart, sweet and fruity.
- Vanderghinst Red-Brown: fruity accents and smooth acidity combine in this perfectly balanced classic.
Old brown – to cellar, sip or cook with
Thanks to its natural souring process, old brown ales have great aging potential. Some bottles even get better over time, developing extra layers of complexity. Store them upright in a cool, dark place like your cellar and enjoy them for years to come.
With its bold flavor profile, old brown is also excellent for beer tastings. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned beer lover, there's always a new aroma or nuance to discover. Pair it with other tart styles like lambic or gueuze for a well-rounded comparison.
And old brown makes a fine table companion. Its acidity and sweet notes pair well with a wide variety of dishes. From Flemish classics like beef stew or rabbit with prunes, to aged cheeses like old goat or comté, and even desserts with chocolate or red fruits. In the kitchen, it’s a fantastic ingredient for stews, marinades and sauces.
Belgian Beer Heaven – your expert in Flemish old brown
Over 1,600 Belgian beers in stock, years of passion for authentic craftsmanship, and a complete customer service… Belgian Beer Heaven is your trusted source for all Belgian beers — including old brown. We carefully select beers from breweries that respect and preserve the Flemish old brown tradition. That way, you’re always guaranteed top quality.
Orders placed before noon are shipped the next working day. We pack everything securely and compactly, with insurance against breakage included. Your beer arrives quickly and safely, ready to be enjoyed. Explore our full range of old brown ales today and taste the rich tradition of Flanders — brought to your doorstep by Belgian Beer Heaven.
