The Journey of Luc Savels: From Punaise Beers to Koekoeks Brewery
Luc Savels, a well-known name in the Belgian beer world, shares his passion for beer and hospitality. In this article, we dive into his story, the meaning behind the names of his beers, and his future plans.
🌟 Introduction of Luc Savels
Luc Savels is not just a name in the world of Belgian beer. He is a pioneer, an innovator, and above all, a passionate beer lover. Luc's journey did not begin in a traditional way; he found his path through the unique challenges of the hospitality and brewing world. His experiences have shaped him into the brewer he is today.
With a background in the hospitality industry and a deep-rooted love for beer, Luc has a unique perspective on what it means to be a brewer. His stories are not only inspiring but also a reflection of the dynamics of contemporary beer culture.
🍺 The origin of Punaise Beers
Punaise Bieren originated from a spontaneous idea. Luc was at a point in his life where he felt the need to make his own mark on the beer world. The name 'Punaise' came to him during a relaxing moment on the beach, a moment of reflection that led to a creative idea.
The idea of launching Punaise Bieren was not just a business decision; it was a way for Luc to share his love for beer with the world. He wanted to create beers that were not only flavorful but also told a story.
🦜 What is Koekoeksbrouwerij?
Koekoeksbrouwerij is a unique concept that stems from Luc's experiences in the beer world. The idea behind Koekoeksbrouwerij is that it provides a platform for craft brewers who do not have their own brewing equipment. These brewers can 'lay' their creations at existing breweries, resulting in a collaboration that promotes the diversity of beer culture.
Luc's approach to Koekoeksbrouwerij is transparent and honest. He respects the traditions of the brewing world and ensures that his customers understand what they are drinking. This makes Koekoeksbrouwerij not just a brand, but a community of beer lovers.
🐦 The name Punaise: An inspiration
The name 'Punaise' originated from a moment of inspiration. Luc still remembers well how he sat on the beach, contemplating his future and the idea of creating his own beers. It was a spontaneous thought that quickly developed into something concrete.
The name has a playful sound and is easy to remember, making it perfect for a beer brand. It also reflects Luc's approach to brewing: creative, unique, and always with a wink.
🎉 The story behind Koekoeksbrouwerij
Koekoeksbrouwerij has an interesting origin, stemming from a conversation with a friend and representative of a larger brewery. The term 'koekoeksbrouwer' was used to describe companies that produced their beers without having their own brewery. Luc found this description apt and decided to embrace it.
By using the name Koekoeksbrouwerij, Luc emphasizes the collaboration between different breweries. The idea that you can share a nest but still lay your own egg is a powerful metaphor for the current beer culture.
📦 The Beerbox: Beginning of an adventure
The Beerbox is where Luc's adventure really began. During the corona period, when many hospitality businesses were struggling, he came up with the idea of putting together packages with local beers. This not only provided a solution to the sales problems of breweries but also gave people the opportunity to enjoy craft beer at home.
Luc's Beerbox was a great success and gave him the opportunity to collaborate with various breweries. The idea of combining beers from different breweries into one package was innovative and helped the local economy in these challenging times.
🍻 The common thread of Luc's life: Hospitality and beer
Luc's life has always been connected to the hospitality industry and beer culture. From a young age, he was fascinated by the world of beers. His experiences in cafés, breweries, and as a chauffeur have only increased his knowledge and love for beer.
Whether it's about discovering new flavors or sharing his passion with others, Luc's journey in the world of beer is a testament to his dedication. He continues to commit himself to the hospitality and brewing industry, and his stories inspire many to explore the world of craft beer.
🍻 Brewing at Brewery De Meester
At Brewery De Meester, the story of Luc Savels becomes a reality. Here, under the expert guidance of Dirk, Luc has the opportunity to brew his own beers. It was a spontaneous meeting between pot and pint that led to this collaboration.
"Luc brings his ideas and recipes to the table, while Dirk adds his expertise and experience as a brewer. This collaboration model makes it possible to create unique beers that reflect Luc's passion. The Punijzer juicy blond was the first fruit of this collaboration, a beer that began the path to success."
The brewing process is not just a technical matter; it is an art form. Luc and Dirk work together to find the perfect balance of flavors and aromas. This results in beers that are not only delicious but also tell a story.
🤝 Collaboration and Creativity
The collaboration between Luc and Dirk is an example of how creativity and craftsmanship go hand in hand. Luc's vision and Dirk's experience form the basis for developing new beers. This ensures a constant evolution in the offerings of Brewery De Meester.
The brewing process is a combination of science and art, where every step is carefully considered. From selecting ingredients to fine-tuning the brewing process, every decision contributes to the final result.
🌱 The first beers: Punijzer and more
The Punijzer juicy blond was not just a beginning; it was a statement. With an alcohol percentage of 5.5%, it is an accessible and fruity beer that appeals to many people. It is designed to reach a wide audience and has quickly found its way into the hearts of beer lovers.
The second creation, the Punisse Rosse Tinker, was a challenge. Luc wanted to make an amber beer, inspired by his love for a particular Irish beer. This resulted in a heavier variant, which has gained its own unique character.
The development of these beers is not just a matter of brewing; it is a process of learning and experimenting. Luc and Dirk have experimented together with different flavors and techniques, which has led to an increasingly diverse range.
🔥 The Evolution of Beers and Flavors
Luc's approach to brewing is dynamic. He understands that tastes evolve and that consumers are always looking for something new. This drives him to constantly explore new recipes and ideas.
The role of customer feedback is crucial. Luc listens to the preferences of his customers and adjusts his beers accordingly. This ensures that his offerings remain relevant and respond to the desires of the market.
🎊 The role of beer festivals in promotion
Beer festivals are an important platform for Luc and his beers. They provide a unique opportunity to connect directly with consumers. During these events, he can share his passion and knowledge, which contributes to the brand awareness of his brand.
"It's not just an opportunity to sell; it's also an opportunity to learn. Luc observes people's reactions to his beers and uses these insights to further improve his products."
Organizing events is labor-intensive, but the result is worth it. Luc aims to select the right festivals so that his efforts actually result in growth and recognition.
🌍 Future events and projects
Luc is constantly exploring new opportunities. He has plans to expand his presence at festivals and also participate in other events, such as hiking tours and food truck festivals.
"In addition, he is working on setting up a tasting event in Blankenbergen, where people can come to taste his beers. This will provide a unique experience, not only with his beers but also with those from friendly breweries."
Through these events, Luc hopes to create a broader community of beer lovers and further strengthen his brand.
📦 Distribution and availability of beers
The distribution of Punijzer beers is a priority for Luc. He aims to make his beers as widely available as possible. Currently, his beers can be found in all Districo stores and various other beverage retailers.
The growth of availability is a continuous process. Luc understands that he must be active in the market to promote his products. This means that he regularly visits stores and engages in conversations with owners.
Webshops are also an important part of his distribution strategy. By being available online, he can reach a wider audience and introduce more people to his beers.
🚀 Marketing and Distinction in the Beer World
In a market with thousands of beers, it is essential to stand out. Luc knows that both the quality of the beer and the appearance of the packaging are crucial. A good design can attract attention, but it must also be a good product.
Luc invests in creative marketing strategies to promote his beers. He utilizes social media, events, and collaborations to promote his brand.
The goal is to create a recognizable identity that reflects both the quality and the passion for craft beer. This ensures that consumers not only buy the product but also appreciate the story behind it.
🤔 Dilemmas and choices in the beer world
In the world of brewing beer, there are always dilemmas. One of the biggest choices I ever had to make was whether I wanted to run a café without being able to drink beer myself. It seems like a simple decision, but the reality of running a hospitality business is tough. After six years of enjoyment in the hospitality industry, I have decided that I want to focus on brewing and beer festivals.
The mental and physical strain of running a café should not be underestimated. Being constantly present and taking care of customers requires a lot of energy. That is why I have chosen to focus on my passion for beer, without the daily pressure of a café. Organizing pop-up cafés and beer festivals gives me the freedom I am looking for.
🍻 Favorite breweries and beers
"When it comes to breweries I admire, there are two that stand out: Brewery De Rank and Brewery De Meester. Brewery De Rank has a strong focus on bitter beers, with real hop aromas that make my heart race. On the other hand, Brewery De Meester offers accessible beers and unique barrel-aged variants that also pique my interest."
"My favorite beer? Without a doubt, it's the xX-Bitter from Brewery De Rank. This beer has had me in its grip for twenty years. The combination of bitterness and flavor makes it irresistible to me. If I ever had to go to a deserted island, I would definitely take a lifetime supply of this beer."
"In addition to bitter beers, I am also a fan of sour beers. The diversity of flavors makes the world of beer so fascinating. There is always something new to discover."
🍺 Ideal alcohol percentage and flavor profile
Regarding the ideal alcohol percentage, I believe in the principle: the lower, the better. But that doesn't mean the beer shouldn't be flavorful. In practice, an alcohol percentage between 5 and 7% is ideal. This ensures that the beer has a good body without feeling too heavy.
"I enjoy heavier stouts, but I prefer light, sessionable beers. A full bottle of 33 cl is sometimes just too much. Just give me three or four beers of 5 to 7%. That's the perfect balance between enjoyment and responsible drinking."
🔮 The future of Luc Savels in the beer world
The future looks promising, even though I do not want to start my own brewery. My passion lies in the brewing process and the commercial aspect of the beer world. This year I switched to a 50/50 model, which means that I still work a few days a week in my other job, but also spend a lot of time on beer.
"I dream of being completely independent in the beer industry, without a side job. That would mean I can dedicate all my time to brewing, events, and creating new beers. It's a step-by-step process, but I enjoy every phase."
I also remain actively involved in events and collaborations. The opportunity to explore different breweries and their products makes my work even more interesting. It's not just about the beer, but also about the people and experiences that come with it.
🌈 Conclusion and future plans
Looking back on my journey in the beer world, I am grateful for the choices I have made. I am happy that I can work in this sector and share my passion with others. The beer festivals, the collaboration with Dirk, and brewing unique beers make my life richer.
"For the future, I hope to expand my range with new beers. Currently, I have a basic selection with a blonde, tripel, and quad. There are still many possibilities, such as developing a stout or IPA. But that needs to be well thought out; I have to stand behind it."
So, if you run into me at a beer festival, know that there is always something new in the works. Follow us on social media to stay updated on new beers and events. Together we will discover the wonderful world of craft beer!
