Curaçao Orange Peel (100g)

Bitter orange peel for authentic Belgian-style wheat beers

Curaçao orange peel is the traditional bitter orange used in Belgian brewing, prized for its subtle, floral citrus character and dry, bitter finish. Unlike sweet orange peel, curaçao imparts a more restrained, complex orange note — less confectionery, more botanical — making it the authentic choice for styles where orange is a background element rather than a forward flavour.

Belgian Witbier

Curaçao orange peel is a defining ingredient in Belgian Witbier (white beer) — the unfiltered, top-fermented wheat beer that originated in medieval Belgium. In a Witbier, it is traditionally paired with coriander seed, contributing to the style’s characteristic spiced, hazy character. It is also used in other Belgian wheat styles and spiced ales where a dry citrus note is wanted.

How to Use

Add the peel to the kettle and steep in the wort for 3–10 minutes before the end of the boil. This preserves the aromatic oils without driving them off through prolonged boiling. Remove the peel before transferring to the fermenter — a hop bag or hop ball/tube works well for easy removal.

At a Glance

• Weight: 100g
• Type: Curaçao bitter orange peel (dried)
• Flavour profile: Subtle, floral citrus with a dry, bitter finish
• Addition point: Kettle, last 3–10 minutes of boil
• Traditional pairing: Coriander seed (Witbier)
• Vendor: Brupaks

Please note: For a richer, sweeter orange character — closer to Cointreau or Grand Marnier — see Sweet Orange Peel (100g), which suits IPAs, Christmas ales, and lighter wheat beers.