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Trappist Beer Travels, Second Edition: Inside the Breweries of the Monasteries
While beer drinkers around the world scour market shelves for Trappist beers, few understand the enigmatic lives of the monks behind these illustrious brews. Now in its second edition, Trappist Beer Travels takes readers inside monastery walls for an in-depth look at the legendary breweries of Trappist monks.
From the expansive production facilities at Chimay, to the coveted gates of Westvleteren, to the ancient sun-baked walls of Rome’s Tre Fontane, join three American beer writers as they travel the globe gaining rare access to the world's authentic Trappist breweries. This updated and expanded edition includes vibrant new and historical photographs and original artwork, as well as a brand-new chapter focused on the latest brothers to take up the craft of brewing, the monks of England's Mount Saint Bernard Abbey.
Explore the histories of each abbey, their brewing traditions, details about the lives of the monks, and helpful travel tips so you, too, can plan a journey of your own.
From the expansive production facilities at Chimay, to the coveted gates of Westvleteren, to the ancient sun-baked walls of Rome’s Tre Fontane, join three American beer writers as they travel the globe gaining rare access to the world's authentic Trappist breweries. This updated and expanded edition includes vibrant new and historical photographs and original artwork, as well as a brand-new chapter focused on the latest brothers to take up the craft of brewing, the monks of England's Mount Saint Bernard Abbey.
Explore the histories of each abbey, their brewing traditions, details about the lives of the monks, and helpful travel tips so you, too, can plan a journey of your own.
256 pages, Hardcover
Published March 28, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
March 7, 2018
Books about beer and brewing can be a retelling of what a beer lover already knew apart from the history and the ales on offer. This book it a revelation.
Due to it's subject matter; it is packed with church history and monastic life as well as the time to review what only 11 breweries can boast, the production of trappist ales.
The detail and writing is first class, the photographs will appeal to church historians and beer lovers alike in a unique collection of stories how an order of monks beyond prayer saw work as an important element of their faith. Providing shelter and accommodation, santuary and respite from the world. Feeding travellers home produced food and quality beers. that this tradition has been pasesed down through generations ensures that the product is the best and a quality one.
With tasting notes and hints about exploring these establishments for prayer, meditation, reflection and hospitality makes this a wonderful book to read and reference. Taking in brewhouses in Belgium, Italy. The Netherlands and USA you seek men dedicated to their skilled practices and true artisans. Beautiful pictures of the abbey/monestry adorn the pages as well as photographs of the brewhouse/brewery which are clean, modern and include laboratories insome cases.
The different ales produced are listed and I have included some of these:
Orval a pale ale (6.2% ABV) - Try also Petite Orval once just brewed for the monks, a patersbier, the style likely came about when the monks did an extra sparge of the mash to extract left over sugars; Achel 8 Blonde (8% ABV) [Also a Bruin] and both in Extra in both styles but at 9.5% ABV; La Trappe Blonde, 6.5% ABV, Dubbel 7% ABV, Isid'or 7.5% ABV, Tripel 8% ABV and Quadrupel 10% ABV; Rochefort 6 [a Belgian Dubbel] 7.5% ABV red cap, 8 9.2% ABV green cap and 10 [a Quadrupel] 11.3% ABV blue cap; Chimay Gold or Doree 4.8% ABV another patersbier originally for the monks only, Premiere [Rouge / Dubbel] 7% ABV, Cinq Cents [Blanche / Tripel] 8% ABV; Westvleteren Blond 5.8% ABV, 8 [Dubbel] 8% ABV and 12 {Quad} 10.2% ABV; Westmalle Dubbel 7% ABV, Triple 9.5% ABV and Extra 4.8% ABV another patersbier brewed twice a year for the monks and their guests staying in the guesthouse; Zundert "Monks brew to live, they don't live to brew." Trappist Beer [Tripel] 8% ABV; Shift Engelszell produce, Gregorious [a strong dark ale / Quad] 9.7 ~ 10.5% ABV; Benno {Duppel} 6.9 ~ 7% ABV and Nivard {a pale ale} 5.5% ABV; Tre Fontane Triple with eucalyptus 8.5% ABV; Spencer Trappist Ale 6.5% ABV not quite a classic patersbier a straw colour favoured by me, Trappist Holiday Ale a strong dark ale [Belgian style] 8.7~9% ABV and Trappist India pale ale 7.2% ABV to name but three other beers brewed in a german style as well.
I loved that their summary was entitled "Contemplation" in keeping with their experiences being with and sharing life with the monks' but some of the facts are mind blowing. That in some circles these are viewed as micro-breweries is missing the point and quite misleading.
This was an adventure three female writers embarked upon. That they produced such a wonderful and empathic book is a joy to us readers who can share their discoveries and reference our own trips to these places in due time. They provide details of local attractions, travel tips and if the brewery can be visited. Either way there is always the shop for spiritual guidance and liquid refreshment.
The book has an excellent reference section and a glossery of terms for the general reader.
I know what a trappist monk is now and I have a real desire to give money to the order via the purchase of their fine ales. This is a book I have enjoyed the more I have read and it is a book that I would want to own and refer to again and again.
Due to it's subject matter; it is packed with church history and monastic life as well as the time to review what only 11 breweries can boast, the production of trappist ales.
The detail and writing is first class, the photographs will appeal to church historians and beer lovers alike in a unique collection of stories how an order of monks beyond prayer saw work as an important element of their faith. Providing shelter and accommodation, santuary and respite from the world. Feeding travellers home produced food and quality beers. that this tradition has been pasesed down through generations ensures that the product is the best and a quality one.
With tasting notes and hints about exploring these establishments for prayer, meditation, reflection and hospitality makes this a wonderful book to read and reference. Taking in brewhouses in Belgium, Italy. The Netherlands and USA you seek men dedicated to their skilled practices and true artisans. Beautiful pictures of the abbey/monestry adorn the pages as well as photographs of the brewhouse/brewery which are clean, modern and include laboratories insome cases.
The different ales produced are listed and I have included some of these:
Orval a pale ale (6.2% ABV) - Try also Petite Orval once just brewed for the monks, a patersbier, the style likely came about when the monks did an extra sparge of the mash to extract left over sugars; Achel 8 Blonde (8% ABV) [Also a Bruin] and both in Extra in both styles but at 9.5% ABV; La Trappe Blonde, 6.5% ABV, Dubbel 7% ABV, Isid'or 7.5% ABV, Tripel 8% ABV and Quadrupel 10% ABV; Rochefort 6 [a Belgian Dubbel] 7.5% ABV red cap, 8 9.2% ABV green cap and 10 [a Quadrupel] 11.3% ABV blue cap; Chimay Gold or Doree 4.8% ABV another patersbier originally for the monks only, Premiere [Rouge / Dubbel] 7% ABV, Cinq Cents [Blanche / Tripel] 8% ABV; Westvleteren Blond 5.8% ABV, 8 [Dubbel] 8% ABV and 12 {Quad} 10.2% ABV; Westmalle Dubbel 7% ABV, Triple 9.5% ABV and Extra 4.8% ABV another patersbier brewed twice a year for the monks and their guests staying in the guesthouse; Zundert "Monks brew to live, they don't live to brew." Trappist Beer [Tripel] 8% ABV; Shift Engelszell produce, Gregorious [a strong dark ale / Quad] 9.7 ~ 10.5% ABV; Benno {Duppel} 6.9 ~ 7% ABV and Nivard {a pale ale} 5.5% ABV; Tre Fontane Triple with eucalyptus 8.5% ABV; Spencer Trappist Ale 6.5% ABV not quite a classic patersbier a straw colour favoured by me, Trappist Holiday Ale a strong dark ale [Belgian style] 8.7~9% ABV and Trappist India pale ale 7.2% ABV to name but three other beers brewed in a german style as well.
I loved that their summary was entitled "Contemplation" in keeping with their experiences being with and sharing life with the monks' but some of the facts are mind blowing. That in some circles these are viewed as micro-breweries is missing the point and quite misleading.
This was an adventure three female writers embarked upon. That they produced such a wonderful and empathic book is a joy to us readers who can share their discoveries and reference our own trips to these places in due time. They provide details of local attractions, travel tips and if the brewery can be visited. Either way there is always the shop for spiritual guidance and liquid refreshment.
The book has an excellent reference section and a glossery of terms for the general reader.
I know what a trappist monk is now and I have a real desire to give money to the order via the purchase of their fine ales. This is a book I have enjoyed the more I have read and it is a book that I would want to own and refer to again and again.
September 26, 2017
This a very informative book, it is well structured, each of the 11 abbeys gets their own chapter. It starts off with an illustration of the abbey, followed by it’s history, then info on the brewing process, then a review of each beer and finally finishing of the chapter is info on planning your trip. Each chapter has at least 20 photos to accompany it, including the all important photo of a freshly poured beer.
What’s missing from the book is a bit of character, nothing on their travels, nothing on any incidents crossing borders with a car full of beer, instead it just feels like a information leaflet you could pick up from the abbey. At one point it is mentioned they are very tired and carrying an injury, unless I missed it the injury was never mentioned in the book. One useful thing would be some info at the beginning on the types of beer, how you go about tasting it and picking up on all the flavours, most readers might be aware of all that but I’ve only ever just drunk beer…..so after complaining about too much info I now demand more info. hehe.
Some of the areas the abbeys are located sound amazing, lovely remote places, loads of hiking trails and cycle routes, it is very tempting to go and do a visit, having that extra bit of info at the end about planning your trip is very helpful, some recommended places to stay was great.
I have enjoyed this book and couldn’t resist going beer hunting, I managed to find some Trappist beer and I recommend you read this book whilst drinking Westmalle Dubbel.
Blog post is here. https://felcherman.wordpress.com/2017...
What’s missing from the book is a bit of character, nothing on their travels, nothing on any incidents crossing borders with a car full of beer, instead it just feels like a information leaflet you could pick up from the abbey. At one point it is mentioned they are very tired and carrying an injury, unless I missed it the injury was never mentioned in the book. One useful thing would be some info at the beginning on the types of beer, how you go about tasting it and picking up on all the flavours, most readers might be aware of all that but I’ve only ever just drunk beer…..so after complaining about too much info I now demand more info. hehe.
Some of the areas the abbeys are located sound amazing, lovely remote places, loads of hiking trails and cycle routes, it is very tempting to go and do a visit, having that extra bit of info at the end about planning your trip is very helpful, some recommended places to stay was great.
I have enjoyed this book and couldn’t resist going beer hunting, I managed to find some Trappist beer and I recommend you read this book whilst drinking Westmalle Dubbel.
Blog post is here. https://felcherman.wordpress.com/2017...
July 9, 2022
An excellent book on a subject near and dear to my heart! Great photos as well.
June 30, 2021
(Note - I was able to read an advanced copy of this work courtesy of NetGalley)
Wallace, Wood and Deahl haven’t merely crafted a tale of a beer pilgrimage they took together. Instead, they’ve ended up creating what almost becomes an informative love-letter to the Trappist brewing traditions. The brewers are treated with the utmost respect, with each monastery getting its own chapter, its own personal history told, its own in-depth description of their current brewing operations, and of course an overview of the specific brews that each one produces. Not only those, but each monastery is covered with gorgeous pictures, and helpful snippets of information on what else travelers can do should they ever have the good fortune to visit these establishments that are a mix of prayerful solitude and masterful beer-production. The thoroughness with which each monastery is covered is absolutely top-notch, to put it lightly.
This is not merely a guide to Trappist brewing. It’s of this reader’s opinion that for now, this should be “the” guide for anyone with even the slightest interest in this Catholic order and their magnificent beer-producing traditions.
Wallace, Wood and Deahl haven’t merely crafted a tale of a beer pilgrimage they took together. Instead, they’ve ended up creating what almost becomes an informative love-letter to the Trappist brewing traditions. The brewers are treated with the utmost respect, with each monastery getting its own chapter, its own personal history told, its own in-depth description of their current brewing operations, and of course an overview of the specific brews that each one produces. Not only those, but each monastery is covered with gorgeous pictures, and helpful snippets of information on what else travelers can do should they ever have the good fortune to visit these establishments that are a mix of prayerful solitude and masterful beer-production. The thoroughness with which each monastery is covered is absolutely top-notch, to put it lightly.
This is not merely a guide to Trappist brewing. It’s of this reader’s opinion that for now, this should be “the” guide for anyone with even the slightest interest in this Catholic order and their magnificent beer-producing traditions.
August 11, 2017
I received this book as a digital advance copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A few years ago, one of my best friends and her fiancée told me that one of their top bucket list items was to not only drink all the Trappist Ales, but to also visit all the Trappist Monasteries that made these ales. When Trappist Beer Travels came available on NetGalley, I did not hesitate to request it because it made me think of my friends’ quest.
The introduction to the book is blessedly brief – one and a half pages - describing only how the three authors went from a plan to visit ten Trappist breweries in ten days to a more contemplative eighteen day itinerary that included the newly founded eleventh Trappist brewery in Rome. They explain that their book will expound on the history, spirit, and beers of each individual abbey visited. The chapters will also explain where to go and what to see for those who want to journey to the Trappist breweries on their own. After reading the introduction, I was excited to read the book.
Of course, I was delighted to see that the introduction was immediately followed by a map of the Trappist breweries. The call out on the map of Europe enlarged the country of Belgium so that it was easier to see where the six breweries within the country were in relation to each other. However, given the rough outlines of the other countries on the map of Europe, it was difficult to tell what country the Engelszell Abbey was in. (FYI – it is in Austria, not Hungary.) The location of the Spencer Abbey on the much smaller call out of the United States looked much more Mid-Atlantic than New England; however, that was definitely forgivable as the authors had made clear in the preceding Introduction that it was in Massachusetts.
The authors chose to begin their book with a chapter on the origins of the Order of the Cistercians of the Strict Observance – the Catholic monks commonly referred to as Trappists – so that the reader could “fully appreciate the commitment, choices, and history that have shaped the beer.” The bilateral philosophy of The Rule of Saint Benedict, which is often summarized as “Pray and Work,” is at the heart of why the Trappist monasteries brew beer to financially support themselves. The history begins with Robert of Molesme striking out from his abbey to found a new austere monastery at Citeaux, continues through the Trappist reform of the 17th century, and ends with a description of the Trappists in modern times. The authors also take the opportunity in this chapter to clear up the misconception that Trappist beer is a style of beer all its own. Rather than indicate a style, the term “Trappist” serves as a designation and a certification of origin.
The historical overview is followed by one chapter on each of the eleven beer brewing Trappist Monasteries. Each chapter begins with a one-page pen and ink sketch of the abbey, labeled with the abbey name and location. The bulk of the chapters discuss the abbeys’ origins, their sometimes tumultuous history, and their beer brewing operations. At the end of the chapters are the descriptions of the abbeys’ beers and the travel tips, including other area attractions. Photographs from the authors’ trip and historical photographs are liberally interspersed throughout each abbey’s chapter. These photographs really provide a sense of place and personality to the stories of each abbey.
The authors’ contemplation in their conclusion summarizes their experience traveling the eleven abbeys in eighteen days, and underscores the difference between Authentic Trappist Products and “abbey ales,” which is a catch all term for beers brewed by non-Trappist monastic orders or commercial breweries mimicking the Belgian styles typically associated with monastic brewing.
I am definitely going to buy this book as a wedding gift for my friends because the travel writing is very engaging and the beer writing is very intelligent. The travel tips and area attractions will most certainly be useful in their planning their bucket list trip(s) to drink all the authentic Trappist beers. Personally, living in New England myself, I am inspired by the book to maybe make a pilgrimage to Spencer, Massachusetts to visit the abbey in that area.
A few years ago, one of my best friends and her fiancée told me that one of their top bucket list items was to not only drink all the Trappist Ales, but to also visit all the Trappist Monasteries that made these ales. When Trappist Beer Travels came available on NetGalley, I did not hesitate to request it because it made me think of my friends’ quest.
The introduction to the book is blessedly brief – one and a half pages - describing only how the three authors went from a plan to visit ten Trappist breweries in ten days to a more contemplative eighteen day itinerary that included the newly founded eleventh Trappist brewery in Rome. They explain that their book will expound on the history, spirit, and beers of each individual abbey visited. The chapters will also explain where to go and what to see for those who want to journey to the Trappist breweries on their own. After reading the introduction, I was excited to read the book.
Of course, I was delighted to see that the introduction was immediately followed by a map of the Trappist breweries. The call out on the map of Europe enlarged the country of Belgium so that it was easier to see where the six breweries within the country were in relation to each other. However, given the rough outlines of the other countries on the map of Europe, it was difficult to tell what country the Engelszell Abbey was in. (FYI – it is in Austria, not Hungary.) The location of the Spencer Abbey on the much smaller call out of the United States looked much more Mid-Atlantic than New England; however, that was definitely forgivable as the authors had made clear in the preceding Introduction that it was in Massachusetts.
The authors chose to begin their book with a chapter on the origins of the Order of the Cistercians of the Strict Observance – the Catholic monks commonly referred to as Trappists – so that the reader could “fully appreciate the commitment, choices, and history that have shaped the beer.” The bilateral philosophy of The Rule of Saint Benedict, which is often summarized as “Pray and Work,” is at the heart of why the Trappist monasteries brew beer to financially support themselves. The history begins with Robert of Molesme striking out from his abbey to found a new austere monastery at Citeaux, continues through the Trappist reform of the 17th century, and ends with a description of the Trappists in modern times. The authors also take the opportunity in this chapter to clear up the misconception that Trappist beer is a style of beer all its own. Rather than indicate a style, the term “Trappist” serves as a designation and a certification of origin.
The historical overview is followed by one chapter on each of the eleven beer brewing Trappist Monasteries. Each chapter begins with a one-page pen and ink sketch of the abbey, labeled with the abbey name and location. The bulk of the chapters discuss the abbeys’ origins, their sometimes tumultuous history, and their beer brewing operations. At the end of the chapters are the descriptions of the abbeys’ beers and the travel tips, including other area attractions. Photographs from the authors’ trip and historical photographs are liberally interspersed throughout each abbey’s chapter. These photographs really provide a sense of place and personality to the stories of each abbey.
The authors’ contemplation in their conclusion summarizes their experience traveling the eleven abbeys in eighteen days, and underscores the difference between Authentic Trappist Products and “abbey ales,” which is a catch all term for beers brewed by non-Trappist monastic orders or commercial breweries mimicking the Belgian styles typically associated with monastic brewing.
I am definitely going to buy this book as a wedding gift for my friends because the travel writing is very engaging and the beer writing is very intelligent. The travel tips and area attractions will most certainly be useful in their planning their bucket list trip(s) to drink all the authentic Trappist beers. Personally, living in New England myself, I am inspired by the book to maybe make a pilgrimage to Spencer, Massachusetts to visit the abbey in that area.
April 15, 2018
Beer writers and enthusiasts and good friends Caroline Wallace, Sarah Wood, and Jessica Deahl came up with the idea to take a road trip through Europe and North America to visit all the breweries currently making Trappist beer. When they started making plans, there were ten, but by the time they got everything in place, that number became 11. They traveled through Belgium and the Netherlands and even to Massachusetts to gather history and information and take lots of beautiful pictures, and the result is the lovely Trappist Beer Travels.
Filled with information on each of the 11 Trappist breweries, it's almost a travel guide for those interested in following in their footsteps, as they include tips on the attractions at the monasteries and the cities nearby as well as ideas on where to stay and where to eat.
While some of the monasteries are still rather isolated (Rochefort, in Belgium, doesn't allow visitors, only guests interested in an extended spiritual retreat), most have made room for visitors with gift shops or restaurants. and still others are embracing modern technology wholeheartedly. The Abbey brewing La Trappe in the Netherlands is using solar panels and electric cars and relies on the man they have nicknamed their e-monk to run their online store, and the monks in Vleteren, Belgium Googled the women before they arrived.
While the standards set by the International Trappist Association mandate that the Trappist beers are brewed within the walls of the monastery and are brewed or supervised by the monks, some breweries take pride in the monks being a part of the entire process (Westvleteren) while others are happy to provide jobs to 30% of the nearby town (Chimay) or to employ locals with learning difficulties and mental disabilities (La Trappe). However they chose to make their beers, each one is enriched by the contemplative focus and closeness to nature that these monks' lives offer.
With rich histories of wartime struggles and religious unrest, each Abbey and their resulting beer is infused with centuries of wisdom and resilience. Each beer's story is different and fascinating, and knowing more about these beers and their origins can only increase our enjoyment and reverence as we raise our glasses. I found this book to be beautiful and moving, and I am considering ordering a copy for every beer lover in my life. I may not make it back to Europe in my lifetime, and if I do, I may not be able to tour all these beautiful abbeys, but I can hold a piece of them in my heart as I enjoy the fruits of their labor and say a quiet thank you to all the monks who had a hand in making all our of our lives richer with these lovely ales.
Galleys for Trappist Beer Travels were provided by Schiffer Publishing through Edelweiss, with many thanks.
Filled with information on each of the 11 Trappist breweries, it's almost a travel guide for those interested in following in their footsteps, as they include tips on the attractions at the monasteries and the cities nearby as well as ideas on where to stay and where to eat.
While some of the monasteries are still rather isolated (Rochefort, in Belgium, doesn't allow visitors, only guests interested in an extended spiritual retreat), most have made room for visitors with gift shops or restaurants. and still others are embracing modern technology wholeheartedly. The Abbey brewing La Trappe in the Netherlands is using solar panels and electric cars and relies on the man they have nicknamed their e-monk to run their online store, and the monks in Vleteren, Belgium Googled the women before they arrived.
While the standards set by the International Trappist Association mandate that the Trappist beers are brewed within the walls of the monastery and are brewed or supervised by the monks, some breweries take pride in the monks being a part of the entire process (Westvleteren) while others are happy to provide jobs to 30% of the nearby town (Chimay) or to employ locals with learning difficulties and mental disabilities (La Trappe). However they chose to make their beers, each one is enriched by the contemplative focus and closeness to nature that these monks' lives offer.
With rich histories of wartime struggles and religious unrest, each Abbey and their resulting beer is infused with centuries of wisdom and resilience. Each beer's story is different and fascinating, and knowing more about these beers and their origins can only increase our enjoyment and reverence as we raise our glasses. I found this book to be beautiful and moving, and I am considering ordering a copy for every beer lover in my life. I may not make it back to Europe in my lifetime, and if I do, I may not be able to tour all these beautiful abbeys, but I can hold a piece of them in my heart as I enjoy the fruits of their labor and say a quiet thank you to all the monks who had a hand in making all our of our lives richer with these lovely ales.
Galleys for Trappist Beer Travels were provided by Schiffer Publishing through Edelweiss, with many thanks.
May 29, 2022
I’ve always been fascinated by the Trappist breweries and this was a fun personal travelogue of all the (current for the year it was published) monasteries and their attached breweries. Three American women went to each one with tours, interviews, and access not normally given to beer travelers. The tone is familial, you’re their friend going along for the ride. It gives great stories into the history and inspiration behind the beers, iconography, and flavors that makes each unique. It made me want to give each beer another try as now I know what went into each. As of my reading, two breweries in the book are closing/losing their ITA status: Achel & Spencer. A few others have since opened and are not covered like Tynt Meadow. Regardless, this is worth the read for any beer, history, or religious studies fan. (Gift from my sister.)
September 22, 2018
Although I don't drink alcohol anymore, I still love the technical aspects of brewing and distilling. This book is a mash up, no pun intended, of history, location, and brewing in a series of Trappist monasteries by three women beer devotees. I thought the history got boring-- and maybe they didn't need to go to quite so many monasteries, as the stories seemed very similar in a number of them. That said, I found the reviews of the beers and the brewing very interesting. I will have to try them out on some of my inbibing friends.
Just an interesting note, the book is published with an unusual binding on very heavy paper (coffee-table like) and the copy I read had a faint "hoppy" odor! Maybe another reading was drinking while reading and spilled, or maybe something else?
Just an interesting note, the book is published with an unusual binding on very heavy paper (coffee-table like) and the copy I read had a faint "hoppy" odor! Maybe another reading was drinking while reading and spilled, or maybe something else?
December 15, 2017
I may confess that I am not a big beer drinker - if any - but the idea of a journey around the world in trappist beers sounds entincing, especially for the history and cultural stories to be told. This beautifully illustrated book by Caroline Wallace is a great inspiration in this respect, as it covers not only the tastes and the ingredients used for creating various trappist beers, but is sharing a lot of tasty, moderately alcohol-infused tales going as far as the Middle Ages. A very interesting adventure that almost made me think about starting to plan my own beer adventure soon.
Disclaimer: Book offered by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Disclaimer: Book offered by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
September 10, 2020
Overall impression: I really enjoyed this and it’s a gorgeous binding with great photos. It’s a lovely coffee table book or shelf reference for a beer lover's library.
Nitpicky review: I started reading this early on in the pandemic and found it a struggle. The first chapters are especially history heavy. It’s a great reference, and interesting but for me it wasn’t really a “sit down and read it all the way through” kind of book. Once I figured that out I finished it in more digestible chunks, and the splitting of the book into chapters for each brewery lends itself to this. It’s a lovely insight into the history and community of the Trappist monks. Recommended.
Nitpicky review: I started reading this early on in the pandemic and found it a struggle. The first chapters are especially history heavy. It’s a great reference, and interesting but for me it wasn’t really a “sit down and read it all the way through” kind of book. Once I figured that out I finished it in more digestible chunks, and the splitting of the book into chapters for each brewery lends itself to this. It’s a lovely insight into the history and community of the Trappist monks. Recommended.
July 14, 2017
I'm planning a trip to Belgium soon, and when I was approved to review Trappist Beer Travels, I decided to focus my trip in visiting the breweries mentioned in this book. Being fairly decent beer fan, Trappist beers caught my attention some time ago, but I never truly followed up on the information behind the scenes. This book provides that information, and then some! Gorgeous photos, tips and tricks, beer/brewery information, I'm so excited to try and visit at least one of the monasteries listed!
October 12, 2017
A beautifully written and designed book depicting not only the bustling travel of these three women authors, but also the incredible Trappist history from monastery to monastery, and beer to beer! I get the sense that the authors were transformed in writing this book. So was I. I thought this would be a book about my favorite beers, but it ended up changing the way I think about Trappist beer, its brewing history, and God's awesome plan lived out daily by the faithful witness of these monks who brew.
November 27, 2017
This was a combination of history, Trappist beer making, travel and the Rule of Benedict (Work and Pray). The women traveled to 11 Trappist monasteries that make beer to sustain themselves. Each monastery, brewer and brewery was different and interesting but the underlying Benedictine rule was constant. One chapter for each monastery with beautiful photos of each. Unfortunately, the authors did not add much personality to the book so it was a bit "dry." Ha.
The book was quite interesting but I gave it an extra star for its photographs.
The book was quite interesting but I gave it an extra star for its photographs.
September 2, 2020
Such an illuminating and satisfying travelogue and primer on the world’s greatest beers! Very well written and well researched with great photos and hand sketched illustrations by the authors themselves. I felt like I was with them as they got exclusive looks into the mysterious world of the Trappist monks and their sacred brewing processes. Put every step and sip of this journey on my bucket list. And it’s very cool that the three authors are women who love great beer. They went to great lengths to write this book for the rest of us enthusiasts of Trappist beer, so enjoy it!
September 19, 2017
Part history book, part travel journal, and part guide to drinking Trappist beers. Between the "us" and "we" and the attempt to bridge the past and present I found myself feeling that the narrative voice was a little out of time. It's quite a beautiful book with a textured cover and many photographs of each abbey and its processes.
3.5 stars for really, really trying.
3.5 stars for really, really trying.
March 15, 2024
Second edition, which has been updated for post Covid shut-down. Having been to several of these places (though most without interviews or tours) I can say they really captured the feel and story of these Trappist breweries. I also appreciated all the history included. I'm going back to Belgium in a few months and this really got me excited to go back!
December 5, 2017
Gorgeous book. Informative and engaging history. I really enjoyed the learning the stories of the 11 Trappist breweries and would recommend this book to any beer lover with an interest in travel and/or history.
December 30, 2017
Interesting history of the (at the time written) 11 Trappist breweries. The incredible journey these ladies embarked on makes me jealous. The book left me wanting to either make the same journey or start home brewing....in a robe and scapular😄
May 25, 2022
A solid foray into the world of Trappist Beer.
August 25, 2025
Very interesting history of different monasteries that brew beer.
For the rest of my review, visit my Vlog at:
https://youtube.com/shorts/DhUAKvXDps...
Enjoy!
For the rest of my review, visit my Vlog at:
https://youtube.com/shorts/DhUAKvXDps...
Enjoy!
August 10, 2017
Disclaimer: I received a free ecopy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
What exactly is a Trappist beer? Beer nerds likely have a pretty good idea already, but for those that don't, this book answers the question nicely. The writers do a good job of explaining what a Trappist monastery is and why the monks might be interested in brewing beer.
There can be some excitement about these beers because they are highly regarded and available in limited quantities. An aspect of this book that I think is really important, which the writers bring up numerous times, is that the monks aren't brewing to make a profit. There goal is to sustain themselves and support their communities and various organizations. The monks also have a specific lifestyle to maintain that devoting full time to brewing would interrupt. These women are very respectful of the monasteries and their inhabitants throughout this book, which is fantastic to see.
I loved the photos. These show off just how varied the monasteries are. Coupled with some excellent historical information, it gives a good sense of how these different locales are similar and different. There is even a short description of the different beers and how widely available they might be. My only real complaint comes in the writing style. With three creators involved, it made it kind of awkward when they tried to express a collective idea. That may just be my personal take on it though.
Beer lovers should find plenty to enjoy in this book, whether they've had numerous Trappist beers or just find inspiration to pick up their first.
What exactly is a Trappist beer? Beer nerds likely have a pretty good idea already, but for those that don't, this book answers the question nicely. The writers do a good job of explaining what a Trappist monastery is and why the monks might be interested in brewing beer.
There can be some excitement about these beers because they are highly regarded and available in limited quantities. An aspect of this book that I think is really important, which the writers bring up numerous times, is that the monks aren't brewing to make a profit. There goal is to sustain themselves and support their communities and various organizations. The monks also have a specific lifestyle to maintain that devoting full time to brewing would interrupt. These women are very respectful of the monasteries and their inhabitants throughout this book, which is fantastic to see.
I loved the photos. These show off just how varied the monasteries are. Coupled with some excellent historical information, it gives a good sense of how these different locales are similar and different. There is even a short description of the different beers and how widely available they might be. My only real complaint comes in the writing style. With three creators involved, it made it kind of awkward when they tried to express a collective idea. That may just be my personal take on it though.
Beer lovers should find plenty to enjoy in this book, whether they've had numerous Trappist beers or just find inspiration to pick up their first.
January 8, 2018
Beer writers Caroline Wallace, Sarah Wood and Jessica Deahl undertook the enviable task of visiting every Trappist brewery in the world. The result of their work is Trappist Beer Travels, which combines beer history with their travel journal.
Originally beer was brewed for the monks' consumption as it was a reliable way to make water safe and provided calories and nutrients. But brewing evolved into a source of revenue that helped support monastic operations and charitable projects.
Each of the breweries is closely regulated by the International Trappist Association closely, which make sure they all meet strict production and quality guidelines. Currently there are only 11 breweries recognized by the group.
Trappist Beer Travels (Schiffer, digital galley) dedicates a chapter to each of the 11 breweries, making the book a useful guide if you plan on making a pilgrimage to any of the monasteries. It's important to note that some of the facilities are rarely, if ever open to the public. And some of the breweries only offer tours a couple of days a year.
The authors provide a history of each monastery and its brewing operations, along with information on visiting hours and tastings, if they are available. Several photos accompany each chapter, providing views of the beautiful facilities and grounds at the breweries. Each chapter finishes with thoughtful reviews of the beers produced at each monastery, making this a useful guide to anyone looking for Trappist beers to try.
Originally beer was brewed for the monks' consumption as it was a reliable way to make water safe and provided calories and nutrients. But brewing evolved into a source of revenue that helped support monastic operations and charitable projects.
Each of the breweries is closely regulated by the International Trappist Association closely, which make sure they all meet strict production and quality guidelines. Currently there are only 11 breweries recognized by the group.
Trappist Beer Travels (Schiffer, digital galley) dedicates a chapter to each of the 11 breweries, making the book a useful guide if you plan on making a pilgrimage to any of the monasteries. It's important to note that some of the facilities are rarely, if ever open to the public. And some of the breweries only offer tours a couple of days a year.
The authors provide a history of each monastery and its brewing operations, along with information on visiting hours and tastings, if they are available. Several photos accompany each chapter, providing views of the beautiful facilities and grounds at the breweries. Each chapter finishes with thoughtful reviews of the beers produced at each monastery, making this a useful guide to anyone looking for Trappist beers to try.
November 27, 2018
After fully reading this in print (rather than the ebook I originally had), I'm upping my rating from 4 to 5 stars. It's a beautiful book - velvet cover, big colour photographs - and I also love the contents. The authors outline each of the 11 certified Trappist breweries around the world from the history of the abbeys through their brewing process to today's monastic life to travel tips for each place, and they focus on the people they meet in each, with each entry reading like a really lovely travel article. Now I have every Trappist brewery on my wishlist (well except for Rochefort, which a casual traveller can't visit) - and I may see at least one in Belgium next year. I'll end my review the same as the first time: I feel like even folks that aren't crazy beer geeks like myself would enjoy this book (a lot of history and travel as well), and I would strongly recommend not getting an ebook version. In Kobo, at least, the images did not work well.
Disclaimer: my initial copy was provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review... but then I bought my physical copy!
Disclaimer: my initial copy was provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review... but then I bought my physical copy!
June 9, 2018
#NetGalley #Beer #Summer #Summer 2018
This book will not disappoint the monk beer lovers. This is a travel around the behind the scenes of the Trappist breweries. The pictures, history and reviews of the breweries are well documented.
This book will not disappoint the monk beer lovers. This is a travel around the behind the scenes of the Trappist breweries. The pictures, history and reviews of the breweries are well documented.
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