Take a step back in the history of old-world brewing in Belgium
De Halve Maan Brewery (Half Moon Brewery), located in the picturesque medieval Belgian city of Bruges, is a must-visit destination for beer lovers and anyone interested in the rich history and culture of Belgian brewing. Founded in 1856, Half Moon Brewery has been producing some of the finest beers in Belgium for over a century and a half. The brewery's signature beers, including the award-winning Brugse Zot and Straffe Hendrik, have become a mainstay of Belgian beer culture.
Henri Maes founded the Half Moon Brewery, which has been family-owned ever since. The brewery operates in a historic building that dates back to the 18th century and was once used as a brewery by the Van Maerlant family. In the early 20th century, the brewery flourished and produced more than 30,000 hectoliters of beer annually
During World War I, the brewery was severely damaged and had to be rebuilt. In the 1950s, the brewery moved towards more modern brewing techniques and started to produce its signature Brugse Zot beer. Today, the brewery continues to produce some of the best Belgian beers and attracts thousands of visitors annually.
The brewing process blends modern and traditional methods. They use a state-of-the-art brewhouse that allows them to monitor the process closely and ensure consistency in their beers. However, they also employ traditional techniques like open fermentation in their production process. This method delivers a unique flavour profile to their beers and nods to the brewery's rich history.
The Half Moon Brewery allows visitors to sample beers in a unique setting. Its tasting room allows visitors to try a selection of beers while learning about each beer's unique flavour profile. The brewery also offers guided tours that take visitors through the brewing process and offer an in-depth look at the history of Belgian beer.
For visitors to Bruges, a tour of Half Moon Brewery is a must. The brewery-guided tours take visitors through the brewing process, from milling the barley to bottling the finished product. Visitors can also explore the brewery's facilities, including the brewhouse, fermentation room, and bottling line. The guided tour also takes you to the top of the brewery's roof, which has spectacular views of the city.
Visitors will learn about the different ingredients used in brewing and the various stages of the brewing process, from mashing to bottling. The tour includes visiting the brewery's tasting room, where visitors can sample Half Moon's delicious Belgian beers. In addition to the guided tour, visitors can also explore the brewery's facilities independently. The brewery's brewhouse is a striking sight, with its copper kettles and traditional brewing equipment. Visitors can also see the fermentation room, where the beer is left to ferment for several weeks before being bottled.
After the tour, what better opportunity to try some quality Belgian beer than in their brewery restaurant, where you'll be served some of Bruge's best comfort food to accompany the selection of beers?
About the Author
The author of this blog, unless otherwise noted, has no affiliation with any property or business linked in this article. Unless otherwise noted, there is no free accommodation or payment from any businesses. The information contained in this blog is strictly the views of the author and not professional advice. The author of this BookDirect blog is a travel and tourism professional with over 30 years of experience in international hotel management, global travel, short-term rental management and a tourism awards judge specialising in accommodation and attractions.
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