First brewed in 1918 with the help of British soldiers who were in Silly at the time, this Scotch Ale carries on a historic recipe that is both generous and refined.

More than a century after its creation, Silly Scotch remains one of Brasserie de Silly’s flagship beers. Its aromatic richness and pronounced malt character reflect brewing expertise passed down through generations.

Tasting Notes

Appearance. Mahogany brown color with copper highlights, topped by a compact, creamy beige head with elegant persistence. The body remains vibrant despite its depth.

Nose. A clean and indulgent nose, dominated by roasted malt: toasted cocoa beans, dark chocolate, brioche, and fruit jam. Hints of dried fruits—prune, date, Zante currant—are accompanied by a touch of fresh raspberry that brings brightness. A delicate smoky note, almost like rye whiskey, recalls the Scottish heritage of the recipe.

Palate. The entry is velvety, almost creamy; the malt development is rich without ever feeling heavy. The alcohol content (8% ABV) blends seamlessly into the beer’s complexity, warming the palate without burning. Medium-full body with subtle carbonation that enhances an enveloping texture.

Finish. Long and persistent, with a delicate bitterness that dries out a well-controlled residual sweetness. Notes of chocolate, candied fruit, and hazelnut linger elegantly on the palate.

At the Table: Rich and Versatile Pairings

Thanks to its rich malt character, rounded palate and caramel notes, Silly Scotch pairs particularly well with hearty dishes and umami-rich flavours.

It pairs equally well with grilled, slow-cooked or braised meats, glazed duck or duck breast, and game, as well as full-flavoured cheeses such as Stilton and Bleu de Herve, or dark chocolate desserts. From Flemish beef stew to Korean barbecue, it reveals an impressive versatility at the table.

At the Great Belgian Beer Dinner in Brussels, it was paired with sweetbreads and flambéed wild mushrooms, a refined combination that showcases its gastronomic potential.

Serving temperature: 10–12 °C.

International Recognition

In 2025, Silly Scotch won a Gold Medal at the Brussels Beer Challenge, an award recognising the quality and longevity of this historic recipe.