Allagash Brewing Co.’s Allagash White clone

There are many Belgian witbiers. Most are shimmery and pale with a sprightly, refreshing orangey-spicy aroma. One of the best that I have ever tried comes from a medium-size brewery near Montreal, Unibroue, makers of La Fin du Monde (The End of the World) and Maudite (Damned), Belgian-style strong ales that have earned numerous international gold and platinum medals. I don't know if the brewers use the same yeast in all their brews, but I have had great luck reculturing their yeast and brewing with it. They don't reveal what particular combination of spices they use, beyond the traditional coriander and orange peel, but I like to add ginger.

The beer should ferment dry but not seem bitter because of the low IBUs. This should increase drinkability, as long as it is carbonated well. The spices shouldn’t be heavy, but if you find yourself wanting more, you can always make a quick “tea” of the parts you want to increase and blend it in post-fermentation.