Watch monks resurrect a medieval abbey brewery in Belgium

The first batch of beer was brewed at the Grimbergen Abbey in Belgium way back in 1128.

It was rich and characterful and quickly became a favourite with the locals in this part of Flemish Brabant.

Word spread to Brussels too, and soon the beer brewed in Grimbergen Abbey was in demand throughout the country.

The monks continued to refine and hone their brewing skills for close to 700 years.

Then, in 1798, the French Revolution brought it all to an abrupt end. The abbey was destroyed and its brewing equipment was sold to the highest bidder.

The heavenly embrace of a finely brewed Grimbergen beer became but a memory for beer lovers across Belgium.

Now, for the first time in over 200 years, beer is being brewed again inside the walls of the Grimbergen Abbey.

Father Karel Stautemas, Provisor at the Abbey, undertook formal brewing training. Master Brewer Marc-Antoine Sochon brought in a host of modern micro-brewery techniques. And Abbott Eric de Sutter personally blesses every batch of beer.

Not only that, the monks in the abbey sample the latest batch every Sunday to ensure the that the highest levels of quality are maintained.

It’s the latest chapter in the brewery’s long history of rebirth and renewal – hence the use of a phoenix on the label.

Brewing traditions drawn from the ancient books of the abbey’s library are being combined with new and innovative techniques to craft unique limited-edition batches of exceptional premium beers.

Magnum Opus Brut. Ignis Quadruple. Astrum Pale Ale.

What’s not to love?

For more information watch the video below or visit grimbergen.com