What is a common yeast strain used in Belgian beers?

The correct choice is Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which is a common yeast strain used in Belgian beers. This species of yeast is known for its ability to ferment at warmer temperatures and contribute a wide range of flavors and aromas, which are characteristic of many Belgian beer styles. It can produce fruity and spicy notes, often due to the production of esters and phenols during fermentation. This makes it particularly well-suited for styles like Belgian Dubbel, Tripel, and Witbier, where complex flavor profiles are prized.

Brettanomyces bruxellensis, while significant in some Belgian styles, is not the primary yeast used for fermentation but rather a wild yeast that can impart unique, funky characteristics in certain beers, such as lambics. Lactobacillus plantarum is a type of bacteria used in sour beer production, contributing to lactic acid fermentation, and is not a yeast strain. Escherichia coli is a bacterium that is generally associated with spoilage and is not involved in the brewing of beer. Therefore, Saccharomyces cerevisiae stands out as the most commonly used yeast strain in traditional Belgian brewing.