Belgium has one of the oldest and strongest brewing traditions in the world. While their branding may seem a little dated, one taste of a Westmalle or aged Lindemans gueuze will show that they are anything but old fashioned. For such a small nation it is the origin of endless styles and brewing processes imitated the world over, and the variation within the country is amazing. Trappist breweries ensure traditions are kept and guarded to maintain being the best; the lambic and guezeries around Brussels pioneer barrel ageing techniques and ingredients; the farmhouse breweries show what house yeasts are capable of; and a new wave of modern breweries are competing with America and Britain's best. It is rightly considered as the top brewing country on the planet.