Hey beer lovers! Ever found yourself staring at a bottle of St. Bernardus beer, maybe at your favorite pub or the local beer store, and wondering, "What type of beer is St. Bernardus"? Well, you're in the right place! We're about to dive deep into the world of St. Bernardus, exploring its history, the various brews they offer, and what makes these Belgian beers so special. Get ready to have your beer knowledge boosted, guys!

The Rich History of St. Bernardus

Before we crack open a bottle and explore the different types of St. Bernardus beers, let's take a quick trip back in time. The story of St. Bernardus is pretty fascinating, full of twists, turns, and, of course, delicious beer. The brewery, located in Watou, Belgium, has strong ties to the Trappist monks of Westvleteren. Back in the day, the monks of St. Sixtus Abbey in Westvleteren brewed their own beer. However, during the early days, they were not set up for commercial brewing. In 1946, the monks granted a license to a local family, the Deconinck family, to brew a beer using their original recipe. This is where the St. Bernardus story begins! The Deconincks started brewing under the name St. Sixtus but eventually changed it to St. Bernardus. Over the years, St. Bernardus has gained fame, crafting beers that closely resemble the Westvleteren brews, without being directly brewed by the monks themselves. This unique relationship has allowed St. Bernardus to maintain high-quality brewing standards, producing beers that are highly sought after by beer enthusiasts worldwide.

The brewery is committed to preserving traditional brewing methods, using only the finest ingredients, and focusing on quality over quantity. That commitment has earned them a legion of loyal fans and numerous accolades over the years. This dedication to tradition, combined with their commitment to using the original recipes from the Westvleteren monks, gives the St. Bernardus beers a unique flavor profile that sets them apart. So, when you're enjoying a St. Bernardus, you're not just drinking a beer; you're tasting a piece of Belgian history.

More About the Monks!

It is important to acknowledge that while St. Bernardus beers are brewed using the original recipes from the Westvleteren monks, they are not Trappist beers in the strictest sense. Trappist beers are brewed within the walls of a Trappist monastery, under the supervision of the monks. The monks of Westvleteren still brew their own beer, and it remains one of the most exclusive and highly-rated beers in the world. St. Bernardus, on the other hand, brews their beers in a commercial brewery but maintains a close connection to the original recipes and brewing traditions of the monks. It's a relationship based on respect and shared expertise, resulting in beers that reflect the same spirit of excellence.

Exploring the Beer Styles of St. Bernardus

Okay, now that we've got the history lesson out of the way, let's get to the good stuff: the different types of St. Bernardus beers! St. Bernardus is primarily known for brewing Belgian-style ales. They stay true to the Belgian brewing traditions, with high-quality ingredients and complex fermentation processes. Let's explore some of their core beers and what makes each one unique. This will help you know the St. Bernardus beer types better.

St. Bernardus Abt 12

This is perhaps the flagship beer of St. Bernardus, and one of their most famous brews. The St. Bernardus Abt 12 is a quadruple, a strong, dark ale with a rich history. This beer is known for its deep, dark color, and it pours with a thick, creamy head. On the nose, you'll find aromas of dark fruit, caramel, and a hint of spice. The flavor is complex, with notes of raisin, fig, and a touch of chocolate. The high alcohol content (10% ABV) is well-integrated, providing warmth and depth without overpowering the other flavors. Abt 12 is a beer that you can sip and savor, and the flavors will continue to evolve as it warms in your glass. It's a classic example of a Belgian quad, loved by beer enthusiasts around the globe!

St. Bernardus Tripel

Next up, we have the St. Bernardus Tripel, a golden ale that embodies the traditional Belgian tripel style. The beer is characterized by a high alcohol content, typically around 8% ABV, and a complex flavor profile. When you pour a St. Bernardus Tripel, you'll notice its golden hue and a generous, fluffy white head. The aroma is inviting, with notes of fruity esters (like pear and apple) and a hint of spicy phenols. The flavor is a blend of fruity sweetness, spicy yeast notes, and a subtle hop bitterness that provides balance. The finish is dry, refreshing, and encourages another sip. It is an excellent example of a classic tripel, perfect for those who enjoy a balanced and flavorful brew.

St. Bernardus Wit

Unlike the strong ales we've discussed so far, the St. Bernardus Wit is a refreshing wheat beer. The beer is brewed with unmalted wheat, which gives it a cloudy appearance and a soft, fluffy mouthfeel. It is often spiced with coriander and orange peel, giving it a unique flavor profile. The aroma is light and refreshing, with citrus and spice notes. The flavor is crisp and zesty, with a subtle sweetness and a hint of coriander. The finish is clean and refreshing, making it a perfect beer for a hot day or a light meal. For those who love a refreshing beer, the Wit is a great choice!

Other St. Bernardus Beers

St. Bernardus has other brews to keep you happy. These beers are seasonal releases or special editions, and they often offer unique flavor profiles and brewing styles. Keep an eye out for these special releases, as they offer the opportunity to explore the broader range of St. Bernardus's brewing expertise. This includes the St. Bernardus Christmas Ale which is a seasonal favorite, brewed to add a touch of festive cheer to the beer lineup. They might be a bit harder to find, but they are worth the search. This shows that St. Bernardus is constantly experimenting and pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing.

What to Expect When Drinking St. Bernardus Beers

So, what should you expect when you crack open a St. Bernardus beer? Firstly, you should expect a high-quality beer brewed with care and attention to detail. These beers are brewed using the finest ingredients and time-honored brewing techniques. You can expect a complex and well-balanced flavor profile. The St. Bernardus beer styles are known for their depth, with a variety of flavors, aromas, and mouthfeel. Each beer offers a unique tasting experience. For example, the Abt 12 is rich and warming, while the Tripel is bright and refreshing. You should also expect a beer that is meant to be savored. These beers are not meant to be chugged; they are meant to be sipped slowly and enjoyed. They often have high alcohol content, so it's best to take your time and savor each sip. So, relax, pour your beer into a proper glass, and take your time to appreciate the craftsmanship that has gone into each bottle.

How to Enjoy St. Bernardus Beers

To get the most out of your St. Bernardus beer, consider these tips:

• Proper Glassware: Use the right glass. A tulip or goblet-shaped glass is ideal for Belgian ales, as it allows the aromas to develop and the flavors to open up.
• Serving Temperature: Serve the beer at the appropriate temperature. Too cold, and you'll miss out on the flavors. Too warm, and the beer may taste flat. A good rule of thumb is to serve it around 50-55°F (10-13°C).
• Pouring Technique: Pour the beer carefully, leaving the yeast sediment at the bottom of the bottle. This will give you a clear beer with the proper head.
• Pairing: Pair your beer with the right food. Belgian beers pair well with a variety of foods, from cheese and charcuterie to hearty stews and chocolate desserts.

In Conclusion: The Allure of St. Bernardus Beers

So, what type of beer is St. Bernardus? As we've seen, St. Bernardus primarily brews Belgian-style ales, including quads, tripels, and wheat beers, each offering a unique and complex flavor profile. This range caters to various palates, from those who prefer the rich warmth of a quad to those who enjoy the crispness of a witbier. By understanding the history, brewing styles, and the best way to enjoy these beers, you can elevate your beer-drinking experience. St. Bernardus beers are more than just a drink; they are a tribute to Belgian brewing tradition, offering a taste of history and craftsmanship in every sip. Cheers to the wonderful world of St. Bernardus!