Trappist Beers – History, Style & Recommendations

What are Trappist beers?

Trappist beers are among the most sought-after and respected beers in the world. However, not every abbey beer can call itself a "Trappist beer." The official label Authentic Trappist Product (ATP) is awarded by the International Trappist Association (ITA) – and requires strict criteria.

To bear the ATP seal, a beer must:

• be brewed within the monastery walls,
• be produced under the supervision of monks or nuns,
• and the profits must primarily benefit the monastery and charitable causes.

Worldwide, there are only 14 recognized Trappist breweries – six in Belgium, two in the Netherlands, and one each in Austria, Italy, Spain, England, the USA, and Australia.

The History of Trappist Brewing

The roots trace back to the Middle Ages. Benedictine monks brewed beer as a source of sustenance during Lent – liquid bread that strengthened the body. The Trappists, a reform branch of the Cistercians, adopted this tradition and refined it over centuries.

In the 19th century, after the turmoil of the French Revolution, many monasteries rebuilt their breweries – partly out of economic necessity, partly to ensure monastic self-sufficiency. Today, Trappist beers are world-class products that delight collectors and connoisseurs alike.

The Most Important Trappist Styles

Dubbel

A dark, malt-forward beer with notes of dried fruit, caramel, and spices. Typical: 6–8% alcohol, ruby-brown color, creamy head. Classic example: Westmalle Dubbel.

Tripel

Light, fruity, and robust – the Tripel deceptively hides its 8–10% alcohol content with its golden color. Floral yeast notes, citrus, and a dry finish characterize the style. Classics: Westmalle Tripel and La Trappe Tripel.

Quadrupel

The strongest and most complex Trappist beer. Dark, sweetish, with notes of plums, chocolate, vanilla, and spice. Alcohol: 10–12%. The undisputed king: Westvleteren XII.

Enkel / Pater

The simplest monastic beer, originally brewed for the daily consumption of the monks. Light, refreshing, rarely available commercially – and therefore a rarity in itself.

Overview of the 6 Belgian Trappist Breweries

1. Westvleteren – Sint-Sixtus Abbey

Probably the most famous Trappist brewery in the world. Westvleteren XII has been repeatedly voted the best beer in the world. Production is strictly limited – orders by phone only, with a waiting list. In Switzerland, it is available through specialized retailers such as TheCrafts.ch.

2. Westmalle

Westmalle is considered the inventor of the modern Dubbel and Tripel. The beers are internationally available, but the quality remains consistently high. A must for every beer lover.

3. Chimay

The largest Trappist brewery in Belgium. Chimay Bleu (Grande Réserve) is a classic of the Quadrupel style and is also readily available in Switzerland. Chimay also produces cheese – a perfect combination.

4. Rochefort

Rochefort 10 is another world-class Quadrupel: dark, complex, with intense fruit and spice notes. The Abbey of Notre-Dame de Saint-Rémy has been brewing since the 16th century.

5. Orval

Orval is the exceptional Trappist beer: it is refermented with Brettanomyces wild yeasts and develops a dry, leathery character over time. Fresh and aged, they are almost two different beers – fascinating for explorers.

6. Achel

The smallest Belgian Trappist brewery has had a turbulent history. After the death of the last brewing monk, Achel temporarily lost its ATP seal. Today, brewing continues under new supervision – the beers are rare and sought after.

How to Enjoy Trappist Beers Properly

Trappist beers unfold their full aroma at the right temperature and in the appropriate glass:

• Dubbel & Quadrupel: 10–14°C, in a globe-shaped chalice glass
• Tripel: 8–10°C, in a slender tulip glass
• Orval: 12–14°C, in a special Orval glass

Many Trappist beers are cellarable and develop new aromas over the years – especially Quadrupels like Westvleteren XII or Rochefort 10 are worthwhile as cellar beers.

Conclusion: More Than Just Beer

Trappist beers are an expression of a centuries-old tradition, artisanal perfection, and monastic values. Those who drink them participate in a history that goes far beyond the beer itself.

Discover our selection of Trappist beers and rarities at TheCrafts.ch – curated for connoisseurs and the curious alike.