What is a special beer ?

What Is a Special beer ? Discover the unique World of craft and seasonal brews

At PerfectDraft, our online shop features a wide range of beers—but among them, you may come across the term “special beer.” But what exactly does this mean? Let us explain everything about this unique category of beer and why it deserves your attention.

Definition of a Special beer

Special beers are distinctive brews that don’t fit neatly into traditional beer styles like lagers, IPAs, or stouts. These beers stand out due to their original brewing methods, unique ingredients, and creative flavour profiles. They often feature higher alcohol content, complex aromas, or seasonal characteristics—and they’re typically brewed by microbreweries or independent craft brewers looking to innovate.

The concept of special beer dates back to the early 20th century. These beers were originally brewed for festive occasions and quickly gained popularity in countries like Belgium, which remains one of the most celebrated producers of special brews. The first was introduced in 1904 by student brewers in the Brabant province. Today, classic examples include Palm Spéciale, Petrus, and Dark Horse—often enjoyed as Christmas or seasonal beers.

France also contributes to the category with small-batch options such as Débauche Spéciale and Rèmes. Beyond France and Belgium, countries like the Netherlands, Norway, and England have developed their own specialty brews, many of which are available right here on our platform.

Explore a wide selection of Special beers at PerfectDraft

At PerfectDraft, we’re proud to offer an extensive collection of special beers from renowned and emerging breweries around the world. Whether you’re seeking a seasonal favourite or an experimental creation, you’ll find a curated selection of high-quality beers in our shop.

Each product page includes detailed information to help you choose the right brew:

  • Alcohol by volume (ABV)
  • Volume and packaging size (e.g. 33 cl bottles)
  • Flavour profile and aroma notes
  • Bitterness (IBU) and sweetness levels

Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or simply curious to try something new, our selection of special beers is the perfect way to explore unique and flavourful brews from across the globe.

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Discover other styles of beers with these articles : What is a stout beer ? What is a Trappist beer ?