An Every-day Belgian
In comparison to some of their big bold cousins like Tripel as well as Saison, Belgian Pale Ale is among the lighter and possibly more approachable Belgian types of beers. Similar to an British style pale ale, Belgian pale ale is really a somewhat medium to light copper colored balanced ale. While malt is prominent it's not excessively malty and definitely not excessively hoppy - especially compared to a united states pale ale.
Belgian pale ales shoot for an account balance from the pilsner malt with traditional European hops and permit the initial characteristics from the Belgian yeast strains to stand out.
Because this is a method of moderation, the clove, bananna, ester, bubble gum, along with other such flavors that typify Belgian styles can be found but somewhat subdued.
The Beer
Pilsner malt may be the star of the show, with a few support from Munich or Vienna malts or their 'cara' types of Caravienna or Caramunich. While using sugar is not required, a small bit may help if you opt to choose a very dry beer - surely less than in other Belgian styles at all.
Hops are European (E.K. Goldings, Challenger, etc.) and a few Saaz is especailly nice to complete.
Should you choose want a lot of 'Belgian' character inside your beer, this can be accomplished by good yeast management practices and fermenting at warmer temperatures. The best results are acquired using these yeasts by beginning your fermentation low (mid 60's approximately) and allowing it to gradually increase in temperature. Allowing warm weather along with sudden drop for reasons uknown will retard yeast metabolic process and could cause a less-than-attenuated beer. Letting the temps increase gradually will let the yeast to carry on their job to completion.