Orval beer, a true Trappist gem, never ceases to fascinate beer lovers. Known for its unique taste and exceptional quality, it is often difficult to find, especially outside of Belgium. You may be wondering: where can you get this precious beverage in France in 2025? This article guides you through the history of Orval beer, its reputation, and, above all, the best places to discover it.
Contents
- 1. The fascinating history of Orval beer
- 2. Why is Orval so rare?
- 3. Points of sale in France: where to find Orval?
- 4. The Orval production method
- 5. How to taste Orval like a pro
- 6. FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Orval
The fascinating history of Orval beer
Orval beer is much more than just a drink; it’s a story that goes back centuries. Brewed in the Notre-Dame d’Orval Abbey in Belgium, it has its roots in the Trappist tradition. The monks began brewing this beer in 1931 with a specific goal: to guarantee superior quality while respecting their values.
In the abbey, every ingredient is carefully selected. From spring water to two-row barley and aromatic hops, everything is done to deliver an exceptional beer. This authenticity has allowed Orval to build a worldwide reputation. But the story doesn’t end there.
A key element of its history is the legend attached to its name. The term “Orval” supposedly comes from a tale about a princess who lost her ring in a spring. When she found it, she exclaimed, “I will find it again, or val!”, which means “Gold” in Latin. This charming story contributes to the beer’s legendary status.
Orval’s Worldwide Fame
Orval beer is celebrated worldwide for its unique taste, achieved through bottle fermentation. It is rated 99/100 on platforms like RateBeer, a true guarantee of quality. Its popularity continues to grow, but this fame also brings challenges related to its availability.
Why is Orval so rare?
The paradox of Orval lies in its high demand and limited production. Approximately 78,000 hectoliters of this beer are produced each year, a figure that may seem high, but is, in reality, well below market needs. The Trappist monks, attached to their traditions, prioritize a production that allows them to live with dignity while donating more than half of their profits to charity.
This ethical and responsible approach to production explains the scarcity of Orval on the French market. Rather than seeking maximum profits, the monks opt for distribution that respects their ethics. Thus, Orval is mainly sold in specialty stores, limiting its presence to traditional supermarket chains such as Cora, Carrefour, Leclerc, or Intermarché. CriteriaOrval Annual production78,000 hectoliters Percentage of profits donated to charity More than 50% Alcohol content6.2%
| IBU (International Bitterness Units) | 32 |
|---|---|
| Points of sale in France: where to find Orval? Finding Orval in France can be a real challenge, given its limited production and distribution. However, several retail outlets stand out for their offerings of this Trappist beer. | La Grande Épicerie |
| – A popular spot in Paris for its selection of gourmet products, Orval is often available there. | Bière.com |
| – This online retailer focuses on quality beverages, including Orval, which can be delivered directly to your home. | Vinatis |
| – Known for its wide range of wines and beers, Vinatis sometimes carries Orval in stock. | Des Fûts Des Caisses |
– A specialist distributor that often stocks Trappist beers, including Orval.
It’s important to note that availability fluctuates, and it’s best to check regularly or book in advance to avoid disappointment. Demand continues to increase, and each delivery goes quickly.
- Discover Orval, an iconic Belgian abbey renowned for its unique beer and fascinating history. Immerse yourself in the world of this craft brewery and savor authentic flavors while exploring the picturesque surroundings. The Orval Production Method The Orval brewing process is both artisanal and respectful of Trappist traditions. It begins with the careful crushing of the barley, followed by boiling with aromatic hops. Pure, filtered spring water forms the heart of this secret recipe.
- Once the initial fermentation is complete, the monks add yeast and liquid rock sugar to initiate refermentation in the bottle. This process is essential to achieve the distinct flavors and unique character of Orval. Finally, racking and maturation take place in specially designed rooms, allowing the beer to develop its flavor over a period of 3 to 5 weeks. Here’s an overview of the brewing process:
- Steps Actions
- Crushing Malted barley
Boiling
Initial fermentation
Special vats
Refermentation
Yeast and rock candy additive
| Maturation | 3-5 weeks |
|---|---|
| How to enjoy Orval like a pro | Tasting an Orval beer is a true sensory experience. To fully appreciate its aromas and complexity, you need to know a few tricks. It all starts with the choice of glass, which plays a crucial role in this experience. |
| It is recommended to use a tulip-shaped glass, which helps concentrate the aromas. Serving the beer at a temperature of around 10-12 degrees Celsius allows its full flavor palette to be revealed. With each sip, a subtle blend of fruity and floral notes is revealed, followed by a slight bitterness that lingers. | Choose a tulip-shaped glass. |
| Serve at a temperature of 10-12°C. | Savour each sip to discover the different flavors. |
| It is also a good idea to pair your tasting with Belgian cheeses, such as Herve cheese, for a perfect pairing. Finally, create a convivial moment, whether alone or with friends, to fully appreciate this legendary beer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcT2EsJoOR8 | FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Orval |
| Where can I buy Orval in France? | You can find it in delicatessens like La Grande Épicerie or on online sites like Bière.com and Vinatis. |
Why is Orval so hard to find?
Due to limited production and selective distribution, Orval is rare outside of Belgium.
What foods pair with Orval?
- Try it with Belgian cheeses or smoked meats for a perfect pairing.
- How do I serve Orval?
- It is ideally served in a tulip glass at a temperature of 10-12°C.
Are there any events around Orval?
