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Westmalle Abbey

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description Westmalle Abbey Overview

Westmalle Abbey, or Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van het Heilig Hart, is a Cistercian monastery of the Strict Observance, commonly known as Trappists, located in the Belgian province of Antwerp. Founded in 1794, the monastery began brewing beer in 1836 to provide a safe beverage for the monks and their guests. The abbey is internationally recognized for its Westmalle Dubbel and Westmalle Tripel beers, which set historical style standards for Belgian Trappist brewing. As a certified Trappist brewery, the facility operates strictly for monastic financial support and charitable causes.

help Westmalle Abbey FAQ

What kind of beer is brewed at Westmalle Abbey?

Westmalle Abbey, a Trappist monastery in Belgium, is famous for brewing the original commercial Tripel beer, known as Westmalle Tripel. They also produce a highly respected Dubbel, with brewing operations beginning as early as 1836 to provide a safe beverage for the monks.

Can you visit the Westmalle Abbey?

While the monastery itself is closed to the public to preserve the monks' privacy, visitors can explore the abbey's visitor center, "Café Trappisten." There, tourists can learn about Trappist monastic life and taste the famous Westmalle beers fresh from the tap.

When did Westmalle Abbey start brewing beer commercially?

The Cistercian monks of Strict Observance began brewing at Westmalle in 1836, initially making a dark, sweet beer strictly for their own consumption. They began commercial sales in 1856 to help fund their religious community and the maintenance of the abbey.

What is the definition of a Trappist beer, and how does Westmalle fit in?

A Trappist beer must be brewed within the walls of a Trappist monastery, by or under the supervision of the monks, with profits going to charity. Westmalle Abbey is one of only a handful of breweries in the world legally authorized to use the "Authentic Trappist Product" logo.

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