Yoko, a European beer loverChimay is Belgium's representative "Trappist beer" and is characterized by its rich flavor and complex taste.
While maintaining traditional monastic brewing methods, it is loved by beer lovers all over the world!
Basic information about Chimay
| Types of beer | Trappist (Abbey) Ale |
|---|---|
| Alcohol content | 7.0% to 9.0% (depending on type) |
| country of origin | Belgium |
| Release year | 1862 |
| color | Gold, amber, dark (varies by type) |
| Taste | Fruity, spicy, and full-bodied |
| Features | World-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.
＼ Why not try the tasting set first?／
Pochip
The story behind the birth of Chimay
The history of Chimay beer began in 1862 at the Abbaye de Scourmont in southern Belgium. The monastery is run by Trappist monks who dedicate themselves to prayer and work in silence. They began brewing beer 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"?
Trappist refers to monks and monks belonging to the Catholic Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance. This 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:
- Made in or near the monastery
Beer and cheese production takes place within the monastery. - Overseer of the monks
All production steps are carried out under the supervision of monks. - 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's label design uses colors to represent the characteristics of each beer. For example, Chimay Bleu is a deep blue color that symbolizes luxury and indicates its suitability for aging. Meanwhile, Chimay Red is red, expressing its mildness and warm flavor. Chimay White is white, evoking a light taste and refreshing feeling.
The label also reads "PERES TRAPPISTES," which is a symbol of quality and tradition, as it is made with the involvement of Trappist monks.
How to enjoy Chimay and pair it with food
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. In particular, the combination of "Chimay cheese" made at the Chimay monastery is an exquisite match of the beer's flavor and the rich flavor of the cheese. It also goes well with stews, grilled meat dishes, and traditional Belgian mussels.
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 beers like Chimay at home. In Japan, it is often enjoyed as a "beer for special occasions" and is also a very popular gift.
summary
Chimay is a special beer in the world, brewed according to tradition at a Trappist monastery. Its complex flavor and deep richness are unforgettable once you've tried it. Why not try a Chimay beer for your next special occasion?
\ The set with glasses is also perfect as a gift /
Pochip
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