Abdij St Sixtus Westvleteren

Abdij St Sixtus Westvleteren, Belgium

Abdij St Sixtus in Westvleteren is a Belgian Trappist abbey known worldwide for its exquisite Trappist beers.

Location: The Abbey of St. Sixtus is located in the small village of Westvleteren in the province of West Flanders in Belgium. It is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and green fields and forests.

Trappist monks: The abbey was founded in 1831 and belongs to the Trappist order. The monks live according to the principles of prayer, work and silence. They are known for leading their lives in simplicity and spirituality.

Westvleteren beers: The highlight of St. Sixtus Abbey is its exceptional Trappist beers, known as "Westvleteren". These beers are extremely sought after as they are produced in limited quantities and are normally only sold directly at the abbey. The method of sale is somewhat unique: interested buyers have to make a reservation by phone in advance and then pick up the beers in person at the abbey.

The three main types of Westvleteren beers are:

Westvleteren 12 (XII): This beer is often considered one of the best beers in the world. It is a strong quadrupel (dark stout) with complex flavours of malt, fruits, spices and a pleasant bitterness.

Westvleteren 8 (VIII): Another quadrupel beer that is less strong than the 12, but still has rich flavours of dark malt, dried fruit and caramel.

Westvleteren Blond (Extra 6): This beer is lighter and brighter than the other two varieties. It is a Belgian Strong Pale Ale with a balanced taste of malt and hoppy notes.

Community focus: The monks of St. Sixtus Abbey place great importance on their community and the preservation of the traditional way of brewing and living. The limited production of the beers also serves to maintain a balance between their monastic life and the commercial aspects of the brewery.

Overall, Abdij St. Sixtus in Westvleteren is a remarkable and respected institution not only for its outstanding beers, but also for its spiritual atmosphere and deeply rooted Trappist traditions. The income from the sale of their beers is often used to support the monastery and its community. This includes maintaining the buildings, covering the living expenses of the monks and funding social and charitable projects, which in some cases are carried out by the monastery.