Suds and Cocktails: Stella Artois

Last Updated on Tuesday, 30 November 1999 00:00 Monday, 04 January 2010 05:47

Stella Artois

By Matt Douthett

Stella Artois, pronounced (stela ar’twa), not only has a distinct flavor, but an interesting history to go along with it. Dating back to over six hundred years ago, Stella Artois was first brewed in 1366, in the town of Leuven, Belgium. In those days the process of brewing was considerably challenging, but the brave people of Leuven stood up against all obstacles to make the perfect beer. They ventured off on far journeys to collect the finest hops, and braved unknown lands to retrieve the purest of water. Due to the cold climate in the region, Stella Artois was brewed as a lager, which meant that the yeast sat at the bottom of the barrels for at least three weeks before being served. Stella Artois is brewed with four simple ingredients, hops, malted barley, maize, and water. Yeast is also used for fermentation, so it’s safe to say that vegetarians can relish in the enjoyment of this drink.  Stella Artois was launched in 1926 solely as a seasonal Christmas lager, but due to its success it became available year round. With its golden amber color, large frothy white head, delightfully light fruity scent, crisp flavors of corn husk, and grassy hops, this lager is a pleasant change from the norm. Also an ABV (alcohol by volume) of 5%, this light bodied pilsner lager can be enjoyed on tap or out of the bottle. So the next time you are out and about, enjoying your favorite beers, ales, and lagers, take a little risk and order a Stella Artois, you won’t be disappointed.