Quadrupel / Barley Wine
Quadrupel is one of the most popular beer styles among fans of strong, complex and rich beers. These dark, full-malt brews are known for their deep flavors and high alcohol content. Enjoy the rich aromas of caramel, dried fruit and spices.
At Belgian Beer Heaven, you’ll find a wide selection of Belgian quadrupels and barley wines, carefully curated for true beer enthusiasts. Order today and enjoy an intense beer experience with fast delivery and secure packaging.
Buy quadrupel from our wide selection
Belgian Beer Heaven offers a wide range of the best Belgian quadrupels. Here are some top picks from our collection:
- La Trappe Quadrupel from brewery De Koningshoeven: first brewed in 1991, the original quadrupel beer with a full malty taste and notes of caramel and banana.
- Gulden Draak Quadrupel from brewery Van Steenberge: this powerful barley wine is named after a Viking ship's figurehead now placed atop the Belfry of Ghent.
- Rochefort 10 from Trappist brewery Rochefort: a rich, dark quadrupel with a full-bodied texture and aromas of chocolate and dried fruits.
- St. Bernardus Abt 12 from brewery Sint-Bernardus: a Belgian classic with a silky-smooth taste and a perfect balance between sweetness and bitterness.
- Straffe Hendrik Quadrupel from brewery De Halve Maan: a strong dark beer with 11% alcohol, full body, rich aromas and a complex flavor profile.
Quadrupels, the richest and strongest Belgian beers
Quadrupel is a strong, top-fermented beer style with an alcohol content between 9% and 14%. Brewed with extra malt, it delivers a full and complex taste. The yeast plays a key role in the development of typical aromas reminiscent of ripe plums, raisins, figs, and even chocolate.
The brewing process includes a long fermentation and maturation, where sugars are converted into alcohol and deep flavors emerge. Brewers often add candy sugar to further refine the rich taste.
Due to their high alcohol content and complex profile, quadrupels are ideal for aging in wooden barrels. The longer the aging, the smoother and rounder the taste becomes. Westvleteren 12, Rochefort 10 and La Trappe Quadrupel are fine examples of beers that improve with time.
Quadrupel, barley wine or strong ale?
The differences between quadrupel and barley wine or strong ale are subtle. The term “tripel” is more common in the Low Countries, while English speakers often refer to it as barley wine.
Barley wine typically has a stronger malt character and more pronounced alcohol presence. It can reach up to 15% ABV. The flavor ranges from caramel and toffee to ripe fruit and nuts. Barley wines are especially popular as winter beers.
The difference between dubbel, tripel and quadrupel
Dubbel, tripel and quadrupel are all traditional Belgian beer styles, each with their own strength and flavor profile.
A dubbel is a dark beer with an average alcohol content of 6% to 8%, characterized by sweet caramel and malt notes.
A tripel is a spicy blond beer with an ABV of 7% to 10%. It is less sweet than a dubbel and has a dry finish.
A quadrupel is a heavy dark beer with intense flavors of caramel, spices, and dried fruits. Quadrupel is more powerful and complex than the other styles.
Food pairing with quadrupels
Barley wine is a beer style that pairs beautifully with rich and hearty dishes. Some perfect pairings include:
- Game dishes such as venison or duck: the sweetness of the quadrupel complements the bold flavors of the meat.
- Blue cheeses like Roquefort and Gorgonzola: the salty, sharp notes of the cheese contrast nicely with the malty depth of the beer.
- Chocolate desserts like fondant or pralines: the roasted malt and caramel notes of a quadrupel go perfectly with dark Belgian chocolate.
Order quadrupel beer online at Belgian Beer Heaven
At Belgian Beer Heaven, you’ll find the best selection of Belgian quadrupels and barley wines. Enjoy our outstanding service:
- Wide selection of over 1,600 Belgian beers, including a great range of quadrupels and barley wines.
- Fast and safe shipping: order before noon and your package ships the next business day, with insurance against breakage.
- Rely on the experience of true beer experts when choosing the perfect quadrupel for your taste.
Whether you're a seasoned beer lover or just curious to try a quadrupel, Belgian Beer Heaven has the perfect offer for you. Explore our collection and order your favorite quadrupel or barley wine today. Be amazed by the rich flavors and enjoy a unique beer experience.
