A Guide to Westvleteren: The Holy Grail of Trappist Beer

In this article, we dive into the fascinating world of Westvleteren, the brewery of the Saint Sixtus Abbey, known for its legendary beers. We explore the history, the unique brewing method, and the reason why these beers are considered among the best in the world.

Introduction of Westvleteren 🍺

Westvleteren is one of the most iconic Trappist breweries in the world, located in the tranquil surroundings of the Saint Sixtus Abbey in Belgium. This brewery is known for its exceptional beers, which are produced exclusively within the walls of the abbey by monks. What makes Westvleteren so special is not only the quality of their beers but also the limited availability. This ensures that each bottle is a sought-after collectible for beer enthusiasts around the world.

The brewery has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Since then, the beers of Westvleteren, particularly the Westvleteren 12, have often been awarded as the best in the world. The combination of traditional brewing methods and the unique surroundings of the abbey contributes to the special taste and quality of their beers.

Visit to the Brewery and Café 🍻

A visit to the Westvleteren brewery is an experience that every beer lover should have. The beginning of the journey is often the drive to the abbey, where you pass through picturesque Flemish villages and green fields. Upon arrival, you immediately feel the serene atmosphere that the abbey radiates. The abbey's café is a popular spot, where visitors can enjoy a glass of freshly brewed beer while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

The café serves as a kind of meeting place for both locals and tourists. Here you can not only taste the beers but also enjoy simple yet delicious dishes. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, and the staff is always willing to share their knowledge about the beers. It is a place where you can take your time to enjoy the moment and appreciate the unique beers of Westvleteren.

When visiting the brewery, it is important to know that the beers are often only available by reservation. This ensures that you not only buy a bottle but also take a piece of the unique experience of Westvleteren with you. The brewery has a limited number of visitors per day, which contributes to the exclusivity of the experience.

Westvleteren Blonde 🍺

One of the lesser-known, but certainly not less excellent beers from Westvleteren is the Westvleteren Blonde. This blonde beer has an alcohol content of 5.8% and is often overlooked in favor of the more famous variants such as the Westvleteren 12. Nevertheless, the Blonde has its own unique character and flavor profile that is worth discovering.

The Westvleteren Blonde has a light, refreshing taste with hints of citrus and a subtle fruitiness. It is a perfect example of how a blonde beer should be: light, approachable, and full of flavor. This beer is ideal for a sunny day or as a refreshment after a long bike ride through the picturesque surroundings of the abbey.

What makes the Westvleteren Blonde truly special is the complexity that lies behind it. Despite its light character, there are layers of flavor that develop as you taste the beer longer. The combination of Westmalle yeast with carefully selected hop varieties creates a balanced and pleasant drinking experience.

History of the Saint-Sixtus Abbey 🕍

The Sint-Sixtus Abbey has a rich and complex history that dates back to 1260. Originally, the abbey was founded by a group of nuns, who built a church there and formed a community. After about 50 years, the abbey was transferred to another abbey, which used the building as a wood storage. This marked the beginning of a long period of changes and adaptations within the abbey.

In the 17th century, hermits settled in the abbey, breathing new life into the community. These hermits further expanded the abbey and established a thriving monastic community. The brewery was first established during this period, where the monks brewed beer for their own consumption and for the local population.

Through the centuries, the abbey has experienced many ups and downs, including periods of decline and revival. The last major change took place in the 1990s when the monks decided to resume the production of their beers themselves. This led to the creation of the famous Westvleteren beers that we know today. The abbey remains a place of spirituality and dedication, where the monks continue to commit themselves to their craft and the community.

The Development of the Brewery 🍺

The development of the Westvleteren brewery is an impressive story of perseverance and dedication. Since its founding in the 17th century, when the monks began brewing beer for their own consumption, the brewery has evolved into one of the most esteemed in the world.

In the beginning, mainly table beer was brewed, intended for the monks and the local community. The quality of the beer may not have been what we know today, but it laid the foundation for later successes. Over the centuries, the monks refined their brewing processes, using local ingredients and traditional techniques.

In the 20th century, however, the brewery underwent a major change. After World War II, the monks decided that the brewery provided too much distraction from their spiritual life. This led to a temporary halt in commercial production and a focus on brewing beer for internal use.

Not until the 1990s, when the demand for their beers increased, did the monks decide to restart production. This decision marked the beginning of a new era for Westvleteren. The brewery was modernized and the beers were reintroduced to the market, leading to increasing popularity among beer lovers worldwide.

Westvleteren 8 🍻

Westvleteren 8 is one of the lesser-known, but absolutely delicious beers from the brewery. With an alcohol content of 8%, this Dubbel is a perfect balance between complexity and drinkability. It is a dark, full beer with rich flavors that stimulate the senses.

When tasting the Westvleteren 8, you immediately notice the notes of dried fruit, such as figs and raisins. These flavors are complemented by a subtle caramel touch and a light bitterness that keeps the whole balanced. The monks have carefully chosen the ingredients to create a beer that is not only delicious but also tells a story.

"It is interesting to see how the Westvleteren 8 compares to the other beers from the brewery. Although it may not be as famous as the Westvleteren 12, it certainly has its own unique charm. This beer is perfect for a cozy evening with friends or if you want to treat yourself to something special."

Westvleteren 8 is not only a feast for the taste buds, but also a tribute to the rich history of the Saint Sixtus Abbey. Every sip takes you back to the origins of the brewery and the traditions that have been passed down through the years.

Westvleteren 12: The Best Beer in the World? 🌍

Westvleteren 12 is often praised as the best beer in the world, and for good reason. This quadrupel has an alcohol content of 10.2% and offers an unparalleled complexity that continues to surprise beer lovers time and again. The combination of rich flavors and limited availability makes it a true collector's item.

With the first sip of the Westvleteren 12, you are greeted by an abundance of dark fruit tones, such as plums and cherries, perfectly balanced with the sweetness of caramel and toffee. The beer has a full, creamy mouthfeel that makes drinking it a true pleasure. The finish is long and warming, making it a perfect beer to enjoy slowly.

What makes Westvleteren 12 truly special is the passion and craftsmanship that the monks have put into every batch. The brewing process is meticulous and requires a lot of patience, resulting in a beer that needs time to mature and reach its full potential. This is a beer that you don't just drink, but that you also experience.

The hype around Westvleteren 12 is enormous, and it has not only captured the hearts of beer lovers but also the attention of critics. The recognition as 'best beer in the world' has led to an enormous demand, which only increases its exclusivity. This makes it even more special when you finally have a bottle in your hands.

Whether you are a seasoned beer connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of craft beer, Westvleteren 12 is a must-try. It is more than just a drink; it is an experience that takes you on a journey through the history of the Trappists and their dedication to quality and craftsmanship.