Duvel Beer Review by Edward Lim

In 1871, Jan-Leonard Moortgard founded the Duvel Moortgat Brewery that would later produce the famous Belgian beer, “Duvel”. “Duvel” was brewed with white sugar and Pilsner malt, finished with Saaz and Styrian Goldings. It is a strong, golden, and pale ale. The beer was originally called “Victory Ale” to commemorate the end of World War I. However, in the 1920’s, because of its strong alcohol content, the beer’s name was changed to “Duvel”, meaning “a real devil”.

“Duvel” had become the brewery’s flagship beer. However, the beer’s company was struggling financially in the early 1970’s. Consequently, to save itself, the Duvel Moortgat Brewery entered into an agreement with another brewery to distribute the Danish beer, “Tuborg”. In the early 1980’s, the two companies fell into disacord and this ended the relationship. Despite this, the Duvel Moortgat Brewery was able to stay afloat as they had already managed to set up distribution channels for their beer, “Duval”.

Today, the beer has given way to many more products for its company. These products include Jan’s Pilsner, “Vedett”, the beer “Steendonck”, the beer “Passendale” and recently in 2007 and 2008 respectively, “Duvel Tripel Hop” and “Vedett Extra White.”

Judging by the looks of the beer, I would say “Duvel” has a rather warm way of enticing beer lovers. Its packaging is the classic bottle used by beer brewers to sell beer. Like most beers, its liquid is gold and pale. Its smell is that of regular beers here in the Philippines. In comparison, it tastes just like the San Miguel Light. It even looks and smells the same. I would say the beer banks on familiarity to sell itself to consumers. Asides from the Alcohol content being high, 8.5%, I believe the beer is a perfect 10. It is a good drink for the occasional party-goer.