[Belgium] What kind of beer is Chimay?

【ベルギー】Chimay(シメイ)ってどんなビール?
Yoko, a European beer lover

Chimay represents BelgiumTrappistBeer(See below)in,Its rich and complex flavorIt is characterized by:

While maintaining traditional monastic brewing methods, it is loved by beer lovers all over the world!

Born in 1862,
Chimay's first beer

Chimay Red(シメイ・レッド)
Chimay Red
Author: Myako

The moment I took a sip of Chimay Red, the original beer, the first thing I noticed wasMellow and deep flavor.

The copper-colored beer is poured into the glass, and beautiful bubbles rise from the glass.It feels like a quiet moment in a Belgian monastery.It allows me to do so.

Easy to drink even with an alcohol content of 7.01 TP3T.
A cup that makes you feel the history,Perfect for a relaxing timeYes ♪

Recommendation level: ★★★★(5/5)

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Basic information about Chimay

source:Rakuten Market(Belgian Beer Japan)
Types of beerTrappist (Abbey) Ale
Alcohol content7.0% to 9.0% (depending on type)
country of originBelgium
Release year1862
colorGold, amber, dark (varies by type)
TasteFruity, spicy, and full-bodied
FeaturesWorld-renowned beer brewed in a Trappist monastery

Each type of Chimay beer has its own unique character: "Chimay Blue" has a strong alcoholic taste and deep flavor, "Chimay Red" has a mild and fragrant aroma, and "Chimay White" has a light taste.

Colorful and stylish
A selection of Chimay beers

Chimay(シメイ)ビールの各種
Various Chimay beers on display

\ Start by entering the world of Trappist beer with a tasting set /

The story behind the birth of Chimay

シメイビールの昔の醸造している様子
source:Chimay Official Website

The history of Chimay beer dates back to 1862 in southern Belgium.Skourmon MonasteryThe monastery was founded in 1800 by the monks of the Abbaye de Scourmont, a monastery run by Trappist monks who find solitude in prayer and work.Brewing beer was started to support the monastery's finances and to contribute to the local community..

The monks used traditional brewing methods and only natural ingredients to make the beer. After many years of trial and error, Chimay beer became known for its high quality. In particular, the "Chimay yeast" developed in 1948 is still used in the brewing of all Chimay beers today, creating the unique flavor of Chimay.

In addition, all profits from brewing are used for charitable activities and the maintenance of the monastery, and Chimay continues to give back to society through the production and sale of beer.

What is Trappist beer?

As mentioned above, Chimay is a certified Trappist beer.

Trappist beer is a title given only to beer brewed by monks in Trappist monasteries, and only 12 monasteries in the world hold this title.

First of all, what is a "Trappist"?

What is a Trappist?Refers to monks and monks belonging to the Catholic monastic order "Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance".

The order is characterized by a strict lifestyle that emphasizes prayer, work and self-discipline, and is also famous for producing beer and cheese known as "monastic products."

Trappist monasteries can be found all over the world, but those particularly known for brewing Trappist beer are mainly concentrated in Europe, such as Belgium and the Netherlands.

"The three principles of Trappist beer

As a Trappist beer, Chimay beer adheres to the following strict standards:

  1. Made in or near the monastery
    Beer and cheese production takes place within the monastery.

  2. Overseer of the monks
    All production steps are carried out under the supervision of monks.

  3. Contribution of profits to society
    The majority of our profits go towards charitable activities, community support and the upkeep of the monastery.

The secrets of the Chimay label

Chimay(シメイ)のラベル
Chimay Red Label

Chimay's label design uses colors to represent the characteristics of each beer. For example,Chimay Blue is a deep blue color that symbolizes luxuryThis indicates that it is suitable for aging.Chimay Red is red in color and expresses its mildness and warm flavor..Chimay White is white in color and evokes a light, refreshing taste..

The label also reads "PERES TRAPPISTES," which is a symbol of quality and tradition, as it is made with the involvement of Trappist monks.

The current status of Chimay in Japan

Chimay is one of the most popular Belgian beers in Japan, especially among those interested in craft beer and imported beer, and is available in specialty stores, some supermarkets, and online shops.

In addition, as people spend more time at home in recent years, more and more people are enjoying authentic beer like Chimay at home."Special Occasion Beer"It is often enjoyed as a snack and is also very popular as a gift.

\ The glass included makes a perfect gift ♪ /

How to enjoy Chimay and pair it with food

シメイビールをグラスに注ぐところ
source:Chimay Official Website

It is important to enjoy Chimay beer at the right temperature. Chimay Blue and Chimay Red in particular bring out their rich aroma and complex flavor when chilled to around 10-12 degrees. Chimay White, on the other hand, brings out its fresh flavor when chilled to around 8 degrees.

Chimay goes well with cheese.When paired with "Chimay cheese" made at the Chimay monastery, the beer's flavor and the rich flavor of the cheese make an exquisite match..

It also pairs perfectly with stews, grilled meats and the traditional Belgian dish of mussels.

summary

Chimay is a special beer in the world, brewed according to tradition at a Trappist monastery. Its complex flavor and deep richness will make you forget it once you try it.

Why not try a Chimay beer for your next special occasion?

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