Witbier - Homebrewing Style Guide
Witbier—literally “white beer”, is a classic Belgian wheat ale brewed with unmalted wheat, coriander, and orange peel. It’s pale, hazy, and highly refreshing with a soft, creamy body and sparkling carbonation. The flavor is subtly spicy, slightly citrusy, and often has a gentle tartness from the wheat. Originally revived by Pierre Celis in the 1960s, Witbier became the blueprint for popular brews like Hoegaarden and Allagash White.
Fermentation character is essential here. Witbiers use expressive Belgian yeast strains that create light fruity esters and gentle phenolics, just enough clove and pepper to balance the citrus and spice. It’s a low-bitterness beer, best served cold and fresh, with a huge fluffy head. Witbier is one of the most drinkable and beginner-friendly styles out there, perfect for home brewing kits and flavor lovers alike.
Vital Statistics (BJCP Category 24A – Witbier):
| Style | OG | FG | ABV | IBUs | SRM | Fermentation Temp |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Belgian Witbier (BJCP 24A) | 1.044–1.052 | 1.008–1.012 | 4.5%–5.5% | 8–20 | 2–4 (very pale, cloudy) | 64–74°F |
Witbier FAQ
What makes a Witbier different from other wheat beers?
Witbier uses unmalted adjuncts like flaked wheat, spices (typically coriander and orange peel), and expressive Belgian yeast. It’s hazy, lightly tart, and spiced, not to be confused with German Hefeweizens, which are all about banana and clove.
What yeast should I use for Witbier?
Use a traditional Belgian Wit yeast to get that signature spice and fruit character. We recommend Mangrove Jack's M21 Belgian Wit Yeast, reliable, flavorful, and perfect for this style’s balance of citrus and spice.
Can I brew an American version of Wit?
You sure can. American White Ales often start with a Witbier base but swap the yeast and amp up the hops or fruit. Our Endless Summer American White Ale blends coriander and blueberry for a fruit-forward twist on the classic.
How cloudy should Witbier be?
Cloudy is the goal! Unmalted wheat, protein, and yeast in suspension give Witbier its signature hazy look. Don’t bother with finings, embrace the haze. That pale glow is part of the charm.
I heard Witbier is brewed by monks using enchanted citrus. Is that true?
Yeah..., that's completely true, and they'll also sell you some prime beachfront property in Arizona. While monk-blessing is optional, orange peel and coriander are essential. Enchantment level depends on how many sips it takes to start quoting Belgian poetry.