As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can tell you that St. Bernardus and Westvleteren are two different beers with their own unique characteristics. While they both fall under the category of Belgian Trappist beers and share some similarities, there are distinct differences between the two.
1. Carbonation: One of the biggest differences between St. Bernardus and Westvleteren is the level of carbonation. The Westvleteren XII has a lower carbonation level compared to the St. Bernardus Abt 12. This results in a smoother mouthfeel and a more subdued effervescence in the Westvleteren.
2. Yeast Variation: Both St. Bernardus and Westvleteren are bottle conditioned, meaning that they undergo a second fermentation in the bottle. However, it is important to note that there may be differences in the amount and type of yeast used during this process. This can contribute to variations in flavor, aroma, and carbonation between the two beers.
3. Recipe and Brewing Techniques: While both beers are brewed in the Trappist tradition, each brewery has its own unique recipe and brewing techniques. These variations can lead to differences in flavor profiles, malt character, hop presence, and overall balance of the beers.
4. Authenticity and Ownership: St. Bernardus is brewed by Brouwerij St. Bernardus, formerly known as the Trappist Brewery of Westvleteren. In the 1940s, the monks of the Saint Sixtus Abbey in Westvleteren granted a license to a nearby brewery to brew beer using their recipe. Eventually, the commercialization of the beer led to a separation between the brewery and the abbey. Meanwhile, Westvleteren remains a Trappist brewery operated by the monks of the Saint Sixtus Abbey themselves. This distinction in ownership and authenticity adds to the uniqueness of each beer.
5. Availability and Rarity: Another notable difference between St. Bernardus and Westvleteren is the availability and rarity of the beers. Westvleteren is famously elusive and difficult to obtain. The abbey strictly limits the distribution and sale of their beer, making it highly sought after and often considered one of the rarest beers in the world. On the other hand, St. Bernardus beers are more widely available and can be found in many beer shops and bars around the world.
While both St. Bernardus and Westvleteren are exceptional Belgian Trappist beers, they are not the same. The differences in carbonation, yeast variation, recipe, ownership, and availability contribute to their unique qualities. Exploring and comparing these beers can be a fascinating journey for beer enthusiasts seeking to discover the nuances and intricacies of Belgian brewing traditions.