St. Bernardus beer, a true Belgian brewing institution, is the result of a rich brewing tradition rooted in Watou, a small purple village in the province of West Flanders. In this article, we invite you to delve into the captivating history of this Trappist beer, discover its unique characteristics, and explore the evolution of the brewery that brings it to life.
The Origins of St. Bernardus Brewery
The roots of St. Bernardus Brewery lie in a fascinating historical context. In the early 1900s, Trappist monks from the Mont des Cats Abbey in France fled their country to settle in Watou, Belgium. Far from the fiscal pressures of their homeland, they found refuge at the ‘Patershof’ farm, renamed ‘Refuge de Notre-Dame de Saint-Bernard’. This name resonates with their quest for peace and prosperity. Instead of devoting themselves solely to prayer, these Trappist monks decided to embark on cheesemaking, an activity that would mark the beginning of a promising artisanal adventure. Their cheesemaking expertise quickly attracted attention, but the story of the St. Bernardus brewery truly began when the cheese dairy was taken over by Evariste Deconinck.
Discover the refined world of St. Bernardus beer, a benchmark among Belgian craft beers. Immerse yourself in an exceptional brewing tradition, where ancestral know-how meets quality ingredients to offer a unique taste experience. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply curious, let yourself be seduced by the authentic flavors of St. Bernardus.
The transformation of cheesemaking into beer production began in the 1940s. Evariste Deconinck established a partnership with the Trappist monks of Westvleteren to produce their famous Trappist beers under license. This 30-year contract marked the beginning of the brewery’s growth. Thanks to Polish master brewer Mathieu Szafranski, who brought with him traditional recipes and ‘St. Sixtus’ yeast, the St. Bernardus brewery was born.
Beers made according to these ancient recipes were a resounding success. In 1959, a new brewery was built next to the cheese dairy, strengthening the link between these two artisanal traditions. In the early 1960s, a new licensing agreement was established, but the adventure took a major turn in 1992 when the ‘Authentic Trappist Beer’ designation was reserved exclusively for beers brewed in abbeys. Characteristics of St. Bernardus Beer
St. Bernardus beer is renowned for its exceptional qualities, the result of ancestral brewing expertise. This Trappist beer is distinguished by its rich taste, velvety texture, and complex aromas. The bottle refermentation method, practiced throughout its history, allows the beer to continue to evolve over time, just like wine.
The St. Bernardus beer range includes several varieties, including blondes, browns, and quadrupels, each with specific flavor characteristics:
Beer Type
Characteristics
| St. Bernardus Abt. 12 | Brown beer, rich in flavors of caramel, dried fruits, and spices. |
|---|---|
| St. Bernardus Prior 8 | Brown beer with notes of chocolate and licorice. |
| St. Bernardus Tripel | Brown beer, fruity and spicy with a mild bitterness. |
| St. Bernardus Wit | Light, refreshing wheat beer with citrus aromas. St Bernardus tasting |
| When tasting St Bernardus beers, it is essential to pay attention to the evolution of flavors. The vertical tasting technique allows you to appreciate the different years of beer production. Let yourself be seduced by the aromatic richness of each vintage and experience the subtle changes that occur over time. | The Rise of the Modern Brewery |
Over the years, the St Bernardus brewery has modernized while preserving its artisanal heritage. In 1998, the Depypere family took over the brewery, beginning a period of transformation and innovation. The need to increase production and improve infrastructure became apparent, and significant investments were made.
In 2010, a new line of barrels and 75 cl bottles was commissioned, followed by the addition of fermentation and storage tanks. The visitor experience was also enhanced with the opening of a guesthouse and guided tours of the brewery. In 2018, a new wing was added to the facility, providing additional storage space and reception areas.
A brewery with international reach
The success of St. Bernardus beer is not limited to Belgium. Today, the brewery ships its products to over 80 countries, consolidating its position in the international craft beer market. In 2023, sales reached 50,000 hectoliters, the equivalent of 15 million bottles. Approximately 55% of these sales are still in Belgium, with the United States leading the export market.
The core values of St. Bernardus
The St Bernardus brewery stands out for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and respect for tradition. Each beer is brewed with care, using premium ingredients and respecting artisanal methods. The brewery also prioritizes sustainable practices to minimize its environmental impact while maintaining the excellence of its products.
The St Bernardus beer journey is also a call to discovery. By visiting the brewery, beer lovers can delve into this rich history, savor the various creations, and explore the intricacies of the brewing process. A truly immersive experience that will immerse you in the art of beer.
St Bernardus Beer and Belgian Culture
Beer is an integral part of Belgian culture, and St Bernardus is one of the many expressions of this passion. Belgians are proud of their brewing tradition, which dates back centuries. From beer festivals to gastronomic events, beer culture plays an essential role in daily life.
St Bernardus embodies this tradition while adding a touch of innovation. Whether enjoyed at a restaurant, a tasting with friends, or simply relaxing at home, St. Bernardus beer is a favorite choice for those who appreciate robust flavors and authenticity.
FAQ
1. What is the best before date on a beer bottle?
The best before date, or best before date, indicates the date until which the beer retains its optimal qualities. However, this does not mean that the beer is unsafe to consume after this date.
2. Can you enjoy St. Bernardus after the best before date?
Yes, St. Bernardus can be enjoyed after the best before date. Thanks to its refermentation in the bottle, it continues to improve over time.
3. What types of beer does St Bernardus offer?
St Bernardus offers several varieties, including Abt 12, Prior 8, Tripel, and Wit, each with unique characteristics.
4. Where can I buy St Bernardus beer?
St Bernardus beer is available at many retail outlets in Belgium and internationally, as well as in specialty online stores.
5. Does the St Bernardus brewery offer tours?
