Visits to a number of artisanal breweries led us to conclude that this was a sector full of promise - though such was our ignorance of the beer market that we did not know we would be caught up in a ‘craft beer revolution’! We deliberately developed our project slowly. All decisions have been taken together by the conventual chapter. We have sought advice from many sources: from local brewers in our area; from the recently established monastic breweries of Norcia and Saint-Wandrille; and, of course, from the established Trappist breweries. From the outset, we have received great support from the ITA, a wonderful source of expertise and privileged experience, directing us towards its high standards. From the first, we were advised not to produce an imitation Belgian beer but to connect with local styles. Our monastery is a mere half-hour’s drive from Burton on Trent: ours is very much a brewing area. We have endeavoured, then, to produce a strong ale of 7.4% that is rooted in the English brewing craft, yet in keeping with Trappist tradition. We look forward to presenting it to the public when we launch it at the end of June 2018.
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