What Are the 11 Trappist Breweries?

If you're curious about the world of Trappist breweries, you might be wondering: what exactly are the 11 Trappist Breweries? These renowned establishments hold a rich history and a dedication to their craft that sets them apart from other breweries. But what makes these breweries so unique, and how do they continue to thrive in a competitive market? Let's take a closer look at the intriguing world of Trappist brewing and uncover the secrets behind these revered institutions.

Stift Engelszell

Stift Engelszell, the only Trappist brewery in Austria and one of the 11 worldwide, meticulously crafts authentic Trappist beers like Gregorius and Benno. Nestled in the serene Austrian countryside, this brewery is a hidden gem for beer enthusiasts seeking traditional Trappist flavors.

Established within the walls of a functioning monastery, Stift Engelszell embodies the essence of Trappist brewing. The monks here follow stringent guidelines to ensure that their beers meet the strict criteria set by the International Trappist Association. Through their dedication to authenticity, Stift Engelszell upholds the rich legacy of Trappist beer production.

Located in Engelhartszell, Austria, Stift Engelszell benefits not only beer connoisseurs but also the monastery itself. The revenue generated from beer sales directly supports the monastery's operations and charitable activities, making each sip of Gregorius or Benno a contribution to a noble cause.

The beers produced at Stift Engelszell are known for their exceptional quality and unique flavors. Gregorius, a robust and complex Belgian Quad, delights drinkers with its rich maltiness and hints of dark fruit. On the other hand, Benno, a deliciously smooth and spicy Austrian Trappist, offers a refreshing take on traditional Trappist brewing.

Whether you're a seasoned beer aficionado or someone looking to explore the world of Trappist beers, Stift Engelszell's offerings are sure to captivate your taste buds with their time-honored craftsmanship and devotion to tradition.

Abbaye Notre-Dame De Scourmont

Abbey Notre-Dame de Scourmont, nestled in Chimay, Belgium, boasts a rich history within the Trappist brewing tradition. The selection of Trappist beers crafted at this renowned brewery includes the esteemed Chimay Blue, Red, and White ales. These beers adhere strictly to Trappist guidelines, making them sought after by enthusiasts around the globe.

Scourmont Abbey History

Established in 1850 by a group of Trappist monks in the Hainaut province of Belgium, Scourmont Abbey is renowned for being the birthplace of the globally acclaimed Chimay beers. Here are three key points about the history of Scourmont Abbey:

Trappist Monks' Legacy: The Trappist monks founded Scourmont Abbey with a vision of creating a place where they could dedicate themselves to prayer, work, and brewing exceptional beers.
Chimay Beers' Origins: The abbey's brewing tradition dates back to its inception, with Chimay beers gaining international recognition for their exquisite quality and distinctive brewing techniques.
Global Influence: Scourmont Abbey's commitment to producing authentic Trappist beers has not only solidified its place among the six Trappist breweries in Wallonia but has also contributed significantly to the worldwide popularity of Chimay beers.

Trappist Beer Selection

Among the Trappist breweries, Abbaye Notre-Dame de Scourmont stands out for its exceptional selection of Chimay beers, including the renowned blue, red, and white ales known for their rich flavors and traditional brewing methods. Chimay, produced at one of the Trappist breweries in Belgium, is highly regarded for its authenticity and quality. The brewery offers a variety of styles, ranging from strong ales to a unique hoppy beer, satisfying a wide range of preferences among beer enthusiasts. With their dedication to traditional brewing techniques, Chimay's Trappist ales have earned a distinguished reputation within the beer community. Abbaye Notre-Dame de Scourmont contributes significantly to the limited but exceptional Trappist beer selection available globally, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic and flavorful brews.

Abbaye Notre-Dame D'orval

Nestled in the picturesque village of Villers-devant-Orval, the Trappist brewery known as Abbaye Notre-Dame d'Orval stands as a beacon of Belgian brewing tradition and innovation.

Orval, a renowned Trappist brewery, is situated in Villers-devant-Orval, Belgium, where it carries on the legacy of authentic Trappist breweries.
Orval's signature beer, a hoppy Tripel-style brew, has gained international acclaim and is a staple among beer enthusiasts seeking unique flavors.
The brewery adheres strictly to Trappist guidelines, limiting its annual production to 70,000 hectolitres since 2012. This commitment to controlled production ensures the quality and exclusivity of Orval's offerings.

Orval's dedication to traditional brewing methods shines through in the distinctive ales it produces, captivating the palates of those who appreciate the craftsmanship behind Trappist beer. The limited production adds to the allure, making Orval's brews highly sought after in the beer community. By combining innovation with time-honored techniques, Abbaye Notre-Dame d'Orval continues to be a standout among the esteemed Trappist breweries, preserving the rich brewing heritage of Belgium with each carefully crafted batch.

Abbaye Notre-Dame De St. Remy

Abbey Notre-Dame de Saint-Remy, nestled in Rochefort, Belgium, stands as one of the esteemed Trappist breweries worldwide. The monks at this monastery meticulously adhere to Trappist standards, producing a range of iconic beers denoted by a numbering system that signifies their distinct styles and potencies. Renowned for their traditional techniques and exceptional brews, Rochefort's Abbey Notre-Dame de Saint-Remy has earned a sterling reputation for crafting top-tier ales with rich flavors and unparalleled characteristics.

Brewery History Overview

Situated in the picturesque town of Rochefort, Belgium, the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Saint-Remy stands as a prominent member among the esteemed Trappist breweries worldwide. Here is a brief overview of the brewery's history:

Monastery Roots: Founded as a monastery in the 13th century, the abbey has a long-standing tradition of brewing beer within its walls.
Trappist Brewing Tradition: Following the strict Trappist guidelines, the monks at Abbaye Notre-Dame de St. Remy continue the legacy of crafting authentic Trappist beers with dedication and precision.
Rich Brewing Heritage: Rochefort's brewery is renowned for its traditional brewing methods that have resulted in exceptional ales beloved by beer enthusiasts globally.

Notable Beer Selection

With a legacy deeply rooted in Trappist brewing traditions, Abbaye Notre-Dame de Saint-Remy's notable beer selection at Rochefort showcases a range of meticulously crafted ales that have captivated beer enthusiasts worldwide. Rochefort, one of the renowned Trappist breweries, produces a variety of ales like Rochefort 6, 8, and 10, each denoting the beer's strength and complexity. Situated in Belgium, the monks at Rochefort brewery uphold traditional brewing methods, resulting in rich, flavorful craft beers. Rochefort's Trappist ales are characterized by their deep malt profile, dark hues, and intricate flavors, making them highly sought after by discerning beer lovers. Abbaye Notre-Dame de Saint-Remy's contribution to the craft beer industry through its Rochefort beers is a testament to the quality and excellence synonymous with Trappist breweries.

Abdij Der Trappisten Westmalle

Nestled in the picturesque region of Flanders, Belgium, Abdij der Trappisten Westmalle stands as a revered Trappist brewery renowned for its exceptional Dubbel and Tripel beers. Westmalle is one of the six Belgian Trappist breweries, upholding traditional brewing methods to craft its renowned ales.

Here are three key aspects that define Abdij der Trappisten Westmalle:

Trappist Heritage: Westmalle is deeply rooted in the Trappist tradition, where brewing is not merely a commercial venture but a way of life guided by centuries-old practices. The brewery's commitment to quality and authenticity shines through in every sip of its Dubbel and Tripel beers.
Dubbel and Tripel Excellence: Abdij der Trappisten Westmalle has perfected the art of brewing Dubbel and Tripel beers, earning a stellar reputation among beer enthusiasts worldwide. The Trappist Dubbel boasts a rich, malty flavor with hints of caramel and dark fruits, while the Trappist Tripel offers a complex yet balanced taste profile with notes of spices and a refreshing finish.
Visitor Experience: Guests at Westmalle are treated to more than just exceptional beer; they can partake in guided tours of the brewery to witness the meticulous brewing process firsthand. Tastings of Westmalle's authentic Trappist ales provide a sensory journey into the heart of Belgian brewing tradition.

St Benedictus-Abdij

St. Benedictus-Abbey, or Achelse Kluis, stands as a distinguished Trappist brewery among the global elite. Located in Achel, Belgium, this abbey is renowned for its dedication to crafting bottle-fermented Trappist beers. The strict adherence to Trappist guidelines ensures that St. Benedictus-Abbey's brews maintain their authenticity and exceptional quality.

Trappist Breweries Origins

Originating from the serene town of Achel in Belgium, the Trappist brewery known as St. Benedictus-Abdij stands as a beacon of authentic Trappist brewing traditions. When exploring the origins of St. Benedictus-Abdij, you'll discover:

Trappist Monastery Heritage: Nestled within the tranquil surroundings of Achel, this brewery operates within the confines of a Trappist monastery, embodying centuries-old brewing practices.
Authentic Trappist Beers: St. Benedictus-Abdij is renowned for crafting genuine Trappist beers, staying true to the rich heritage and quality associated with Trappist brewing.
Preservation of Trappist Brewing Traditions: Within the walls of St. Benedictus-Abdij, the monks diligently adhere to strict Trappist brewing traditions, ensuring that each brew reflects the essence of this unique craft.

St Benedictus History

The history of St. Benedictus-Abdij, also known as Achelse Kluis, is intricately woven with the legacy of Trappist brewing and the resilience of monks in preserving their craft. Founded in 1852 by monks who sought refuge in Belgium from anti-Church laws in France, the Achel brewery stands as a testament to their dedication. Situated in Flanders, Belgium, this monastery continues to uphold traditional brewing methods in producing renowned Trappist beers like Blond, Bruin, Extra, and Oud Bruin. The monks of St. Benedictus-Abdij prioritize crafting high-quality brews not only to sustain their way of life but also to support their community. Their commitment to excellence has contributed significantly to the rich Trappist brewing tradition in the region.

Brewing Traditions Continued

Continuing the legacy of Trappist brewing, the traditions at Achelse Kluis exemplify a dedication to quality and authenticity in their production of bottle-fermented beers. When exploring the brewing traditions at St Benedictus-Abdij in Achel, Belgium, you'll notice:

Historic Techniques: The monks at St Benedictus-Abdij follow age-old Trappist brewing traditions, ensuring each bottle of beer reflects their commitment to quality craftsmanship.
Attention to Detail: From selecting the finest ingredients to meticulous brewing processes, every step at Achelse Kluis is taken with precision to maintain the exceptional standards of Trappist ales.
Community Support: The brewing operations at St Benedictus-Abdij not only produce outstanding beers but also contribute to supporting the monks' way of life and fulfilling community needs.

St Sixtus Abdij

Nestled in the serene countryside of Westvleteren, Belgium, St Sixtus Abdij stands as a beacon of craftsmanship in the world of Trappist breweries. This renowned brewery is home to the highly sought-after Westvleteren XII beer, a brew that has garnered global acclaim for its exceptional quality and taste. St Sixtus Abdij, as one of the 11 Trappist breweries worldwide, prides itself on prioritizing quality over quantity in its production process.

The monks at St Sixtus Abdij have perfected the art of brewing over the years, focusing on meticulous attention to detail to create limited batches of their renowned beers. Among these, the Westvleteren XII holds a special place, often considered one of the best beers in the world. The brewery's commitment to traditional brewing methods and the use of high-quality ingredients shines through in each sip of their expertly crafted beers.

Visitors to St Sixtus Abdij are not only treated to the opportunity to taste these exceptional brews but also to witness firsthand the dedication and passion that go into every aspect of the brewing process. The tranquil setting of the abbey adds to the overall experience, creating a sense of reverence for the craft of brewing that has been meticulously preserved at St Sixtus Abdij.

Abbaye Notre-Dame De Scourmont

Within the Belgian countryside lies Abbaye Notre-Dame De Scourmont, a renowned brewery known for its production of Chimay beers. This Trappist abbey in Wallonia, Belgium, adheres strictly to Trappist brewing traditions, resulting in beers that are revered among enthusiasts worldwide for their exceptional quality and rich flavors.

Key Points about Abbaye Notre-Dame De Scourmont:

Chimay Beers: Abbaye Notre-Dame De Scourmont is famous for producing Chimay beers, including the iconic Chimay Blue, characterized by its dark color and complex flavors. The Chimay Red boasts a balanced taste with fruity notes, while the Chimay White offers a refreshing and crisp drinking experience.
Trappist Tradition: The abbey follows the stringent guidelines set by the International Trappist Association, ensuring that the beers are brewed within the abbey walls by or under the supervision of the monks. This commitment to tradition and quality contributes to the abbey's reputation for crafting authentic Trappist beers.
Global Recognition: Chimay beers from Abbaye Notre-Dame De Scourmont are highly sought after by beer connoisseurs for their distinctive taste profiles and the rich history behind each brew. The abbey's dedication to producing limited quantities of exceptional beers has solidified its position as a leading Trappist brewery within the beer community.

Abdij Onze Lieve Vrouw Van Koningshoeven

Abdij Onze Lieve Vrouw Van Koningshoeven, located in the Netherlands, distinguishes itself as one of the 11 authentic Trappist breweries globally, renowned for its dedication to traditional brewing methods and exceptional beer offerings. Commonly referred to as La Trappe, this monastery has a rich history of brewing dating back to 1884. La Trappe produces nine distinct Trappist beers, each with its own unique flavors and styles, ranging from Dubbels to Tripels and Quadrupels.

What sets La Trappe apart is its unwavering commitment to traditional brewing practices. The monks adhere strictly to age-old methods, using only high-quality ingredients sourced both locally and from afar. This dedication to tradition ensures that each sip of La Trappe beer encapsulates the essence of authentic Trappist brewing.

Moreover, La Trappe goes beyond just brewing exceptional beer; the monastery focuses on self-sustainability and community support. By producing their beers, the monks not only sustain themselves but also contribute to various charitable causes, embodying the Trappist values of simplicity, humility, and generosity.

La Trappe's beers have garnered widespread acclaim within the beer community for their unparalleled authenticity and exceptional taste. Whether you're a seasoned beer aficionado or a casual drinker, a sip of La Trappe's Trappist beers is a journey into the heart of traditional brewing excellence.

Zundert Maria Toevlucht Abbey

Located in the Netherlands, Zundert Maria Toevlucht Abbey stands as a distinguished member of the exclusive group of 11 certified Trappist breweries globally. The abbey's commitment to adhering to the strict Trappist guidelines ensures that each bottle of Zundert Trappist beer embodies the essence of traditional Trappist brewing.

Key Points about Zundert Maria Toevlucht Abbey:

Authenticity and Tradition: Zundert Maria Toevlucht Abbey upholds the centuries-old Trappist brewing tradition with unwavering dedication. By following the stringent Trappist guidelines, the abbey maintains the authenticity and high quality of its Zundert Trappist beer, a testament to the rich heritage of Trappist brewing.
Flavorful Creations: The Zundert Trappist beer crafted at the abbey is renowned for its intense and unique flavor profile. Each sip of this exceptional brew offers a blend of carefully selected ingredients, expert brewing techniques, and a touch of artistry, making it a favorite among discerning beer connoisseurs.
Global Recognition: Zundert Maria Toevlucht Abbey plays a vital role in shaping the global landscape of Trappist beers. Through their commitment to producing top-tier Trappist ales, the abbey has garnered international acclaim, contributing significantly to the widespread recognition and appreciation of Trappist breweries worldwide.

Abbazia Delle Tre Fontane

Nestled in the picturesque Italian countryside, Abbazia Delle Tre Fontane stands out as a prominent member of the exclusive group of 11 certified Trappist breweries worldwide. This Italian gem, Abbazia Delle Tre Fontane, is a testament to the rich brewing tradition within the Trappist community. Known for its distinctive eucalyptus-scented Birra dei Monaci, this brewery has carved a niche for itself among beer enthusiasts.

Abbazia Delle Tre Fontane adheres to stringent guidelines to uphold its Trappist designation. The brewery's commitment to quality and tradition is evident in its products, which proudly bear the Authentic Trappist Product label. This label not only signifies authenticity but also guarantees a superior tasting experience for consumers.

Located in Italy, Abbazia Delle Tre Fontane adds a unique touch to the global map of Trappist breweries. The brewery's dedication to crafting exceptional brews while staying true to its Trappist roots is commendable. Whether you are a seasoned beer aficionado or a curious newcomer, a sip of Abbazia Delle Tre Fontane's offerings is sure to transport you to the heart of Italian brewing heritage.