Beer Galaxy
Dubbel — The Classic Brown Trappist Beer
The Dubbel is the classic brown Trappist beer, codified by Westmalle Abbey in the 19th century. With a moderate 6.5 to 7.5% ABV, a deep red-brown colour and a profile of dried fruit, caramel and roasted malt, it is often considered the most approachable and most versatile of the Trappist beers. The term “Dubbel” (“double”) comes from the old monastic convention that marked beer strength with crosses on the casks: two crosses for the Dubbel.
Style characteristics
| Abv | 6.5% – 7.5% |
|---|---|
| Ibu | 15 – 25 |
| Ebc | 30 – 60 (red-brown to dark brown) |
| Appearance | Slightly hazy dark brown, creamy beige head |
| Fermentation | Top, bottle conditioned |
| Serving_temperature | 8 – 12 °C |
| Glass | Chalice or tulip |
| Aromas | Dried fruit (raisins, prunes), caramel, roasted malt, light spicy yeast |
Sub-styles
- Authentic Trappist Dubbel Brewed in an abbey: Westmalle Dubbel (the reference), Chimay Red (Première), La Trappe Dubbel, Achel Bruin.
- Abbey Dubbel Style without the Trappist label: Leffe Brune, Saint Bernardus Pater 6, Grimbergen Double.
- Belgian Dark Strong Ale A stronger cousin (8%+) with a similar profile but more intensity.
- Modern Craft Dubbel Modern versions by microbreweries outside Belgium.
All Dubbels in our catalogue
5 beers in this family
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Dubbel?
A Dubbel is a Belgian Trappist brown beer of 6.5 to 7.5% ABV, brewed in the Cistercian tradition. It is recognisable by its deep red-brown colour, its creamy beige head, and its profile of dried fruit (raisins, prunes), caramel and roasted malt. Westmalle Dubbel codified the style in the 19th century.
What is the difference between Dubbel and Quadrupel?
Both are brown and Trappist, but the Dubbel is more approachable: 6.5–7.5% ABV, lighter profile, more thirst-quenching. The Quadrupel rises to 10–12% ABV with a more intense profile (figs, dates, present alcohol). If the Dubbel is a table beer, the Quadrupel is a meditation beer.
Dubbel vs English Brown Ale?
Similar colour profile but different philosophy. The English Brown Ale is lighter (4–5%), malty and often a pub session beer. The Belgian Dubbel is stronger, more complex with characteristic Belgian fruity yeast esters, and bottle conditioned.
Which Dubbels should I try?
Westmalle Dubbel (the Trappist reference, 1856), Chimay Red / Première (the best known), La Trappe Dubbel (Netherlands), Achel Bruin (8°), Saint Bernardus Pater 6 (Trappist-style without the label), Leffe Brune (industrial but solid).
How should I serve a Dubbel?
At 8–12 °C in a chalice (Chimay and Westmalle have their own dedicated glasses) or a tulip. Creamy beige head of 2–3 cm. Pairs perfectly with game, smoked charcuterie, semi-hard cheeses and dark-chocolate desserts.