Affligem, a renowned Belgian beer, is brewed at the De Smedt Brewery, a charming and small-scale facility located just 10 kilometers away from the Affligem monastery. This picturesque brewery can be found in the quaint Flemish village of Opwijk, which is conveniently situated about a 30-minute drive from the bustling city of Brussels.
I had the pleasure of visiting the De Smedt Brewery on a sunny afternoon last summer, and the experience left a lasting impression on me. As I approached the brewery, I was immediately struck by the tranquil surroundings and the sense of history that seemed to permeate the air. The village of Opwijk itself exuded a certain old-world charm, with its cobblestone streets and traditional Flemish architecture.
Upon entering the brewery, I was warmly greeted by the passionate and knowledgeable brewers who eagerly shared their love for the craft of beer-making. The brewing process at De Smedt is a labor of love, and it was evident in the way they meticulously attended to each step of the production.
The brewery itself may not be as grandiose as some of the larger, more industrialized facilities, but this is precisely what gives it its charm. It is a place where tradition and craftsmanship are highly valued, and where attention to detail is paramount. The brewing equipment, though not cutting-edge, is well-maintained and carefully utilized to create the distinctive flavors that Affligem is known for.
As I toured the brewery, I couldn't help but notice the passion and dedication that the brewers poured into their work. Each batch of Affligem is brewed with the utmost care, using only the finest ingredients and following traditional brewing methods that have been passed down through generations. The brewers take great pride in their work, and it shows in the exceptional quality of the beer they produce.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the De Smedt Brewery is its close proximity to the Affligem monastery. This proximity allows for a unique collaboration between the brewery and the monks who reside at the monastery. The monks, who have a long-standing tradition of brewing beer, play an integral role in the brewing process, sharing their expertise and ensuring that the beer stays true to its historical roots.
In addition to brewing beer, the Affligem monastery is also home to a community of monks who devote their lives to prayer, reflection, and contemplation. The peaceful ambiance of the monastery undoubtedly has an influence on the beer that is brewed at De Smedt, infusing it with a certain spiritual essence that sets it apart from other Belgian beers.
Affligem is brewed at the De Smedt Brewery, a small-scale facility located in the charming village of Opwijk, just a short distance from the Affligem monastery. The brewery's commitment to tradition, craftsmanship, and collaboration with the monks results in the creation of exceptional beers that are beloved by beer enthusiasts around the world.