Today, we’re embarking on a journey through the sacred and storied world of Trappist beers. Buckle up as we traverse across countries and centuries to unravel the rich tapestry of these monastic brews.

Brewed in Sanctity: The Trappist Legacy

Our tale begins in the 17th century, within the quiet confines of La Trappe Abbey in France, home to the Cistercians of the Strict Observance, popularly known as Trappists. To sustain their monastic life and fund community-oriented works, these monks turned to brewing beer, a practice that blended self-sufficiency with craftsmanship.

Guardians of Authenticity: The Trappist Seal

The International Trappist Association ensures that ‘Authentic Trappist Product’ is more than a label; it’s a seal of adherence to stringent brewing regulations:

1. The beer must be brewed within the walls of a Trappist monastery, by the monks or under their watchful eyes.
2. Brewing mustn’t overshadow monastic life and should be rooted in a community-oriented approach.
3. Profits from the beer are channelled into maintaining the monastery and supporting social service initiatives.

Across Borders: Trappist Monasteries Worldwide

Out of the many monastic breweries worldwide, only 14 have earned the ‘Authentic Trappist’ seal. They are located in Belgium (Achel (offical title removed in 2021 as the monks retired), Chimay, Orval, Rochefort, Westmalle, and Westvleteren), the Netherlands (La Trappe and Zundert), Austria (Engelszell), Italy (Tre Fontane), England (Tynt Meadow), France (Mont des Cats), Spain (Cardena), and the United States (Spencer).

Famous Elixirs: Sip and Savour

Let’s shed light on some of the most revered Trappist beers:

1. Orval (Belgium): Orval, brewed in Abbaye Notre-Dame d’Orval, is a unique Belgian Pale Ale. Its complex flavours derive from a special yeast and a generous dry-hopping process.
2. Rochefort 10 (Belgium): A product of Abbey of Notre-Dame de Saint-Rémy, Rochefort 10 is a Belgian Quadrupel with robust dark fruit and malt flavours.
3. Chimay Blue (Belgium): Brewed within the walls of Scourmont Abbey, Chimay Blue is a rich, spicy Belgian Strong Dark Ale with a delightful balance of sweet and bitter.
4. La Trappe Quadrupel (Netherlands): A product of Koningshoeven Brewery, La Trappe Quadrupel is a complex and rich beer offering notes of cloves, nuts, and dried fruits.

Savouring a Trappist beer is an homage to a centuries-old monastic tradition, a testament to artisanal brewing and a salute to charitable endeavours. As you uncork a bottle of Trappist beer, you aren’t just tasting a brew; you’re partaking in a sacred tradition that transcends the worldly pleasures of beer-drinking. Sláinte!