Sudden Death

Mort Subite, translating to "Sudden Death" in English, is a name steeped in Belgian beer tradition and lore. Mort Subite is renowned for their traditional Belgian Lambics, which are characterized by their distinctive, tart flavor profile.

Mort Subite Beers

Mort Subite Lambics

Mort Subite beers primarily include a range of Lambics, including gueuze, kriek, and faro. These beers are crafted using the traditional method of spontaneous fermentation and aging in oak barrels, where wild yeast and bacteria interact with the beer to create complex flavors. The gueuze, a blend of young and old Lambics, is particularly celebrated for its effervescence and crisp, slightly sour taste. Kriek, on the other hand, is a cherry Lambic that combines the sourness of the base beer with whole cherries. Faro is a sweeter variant, often used as an introduction to the Lambic style.

The name "Mort Subite" itself has a storied origin. Legend has it that the name was inspired by a popular card game that was played in Brussels by members of the adjacent financial district. The game’s rapid pace, where players could win or lose quickly, ended in a roll of the dice when it was time for the bankers to get back to their offices. That was the “sudden death” part, which determined the winner as well as the loser, who would have to pick up the tab for the lunch.

A La Mort Subite Café

Nestled in the heart of Brussels, the A La Mort Subite café is a historic and quintessential Belgian establishment that plays a crucial role in the country’s beer culture. Established in 1928, the café is named after the famous Mort Subite beer and has become a landmark for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic Belgian drinking experience.

The café's interior exudes old-world charm with its ornate woodwork, vintage décor, and a timeless atmosphere that transports patrons back in time. Guests can enjoy a variety of traditional Belgian beers, including Mort Subite, alongside classic Belgian pub foods.

A La Mort Subite is next to the Grand Place and the famed The Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert. It’s a spot where the rich tapestry of Brussels’ social life and the enduring tradition of Belgian beer culture intersect.

Find some Mort Subite beers, especially the famed Mort Subite gueuze, at your favorite bottle shop and enjoy a taste of history. Santé!