Brewery Cantillon, Brussels

Discover the Authenticity of Brewery Cantillon in Anderlecht, Brussels

If you're a beer enthusiast looking for an authentic brewing experience, look no further than Brewery Cantillon in Anderlecht, Brussels. This small, traditional family brewery has been brewing exclusively lambic beers since its founding in 1900. With its rich history, unique brewing process, and delicious beers, Brewery Cantillon is a must-visit destination for beer lovers.

A Historical Gem

Brewery Cantillon holds a significant place in Brussels' brewing heritage. Founded by Paul Cantillon and his wife, Marie Troch, the brewery has remained operational for over a century. It is the only brewery in Brussels that has withstood the test of time, making it a true historical gem.

Unchanged Brewing Process

One of the most fascinating aspects of Brewery Cantillon is that its beers, tools, and brewing process have remained unchanged since its inception. When you step into the brewery, you'll be transported back in time to the early 20th century. The traditional lambic style beers are spontaneously fermented in open-topped attic-mounted vats called coolships. The beers are then aged in oak or chestnut, blended from different batches and ages, and finally bottle-conditioned for a year. This dedication to tradition is what sets Brewery Cantillon apart from modern breweries.

Fun Facts and Unique Offerings

Did you know that half of Brewery Cantillon's production is gueuze? Gueuze is a type of lambic beer that is blended from different vintages, resulting in a complex and tart flavor profile. Additionally, once a year, Brewery Cantillon produces a batch of kriek, a fruit-flavored lambic beer. The brewery fills empty casks with various fruits and macerates them for three months before adding young lambic to initiate fermentation. The result is a delightful and refreshing beer with a hint of fruitiness.

Explore the Brussels Gueuze Museum

Adjacent to the brewery is the Brussels Gueuze Museum, a non-profit organization founded in 1978. The museum was established to preserve and promote the brewing tradition of spontaneous-fermentation beers, which were considered old-fashioned at the time. The museum offers guided tours, exhibitions, and public brewing sessions, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the history and culture of lambic beers.

Plan Your Visit

Brewery Cantillon welcomes visitors to experience its rich brewing heritage. The brewery is open for visits, and you can even become a member of the Brussels Gueuze Museum to further support their mission. It's important to note that the brewery has specific closing days throughout the year, so it's advisable to check their schedule before planning your visit.

Conclusion

Brewery Cantillon in Anderlecht, Brussels, is a hidden gem for beer enthusiasts seeking an authentic brewing experience. With its unchanged brewing process, unique offerings, and historical significance, this family-owned brewery offers a glimpse into the rich brewing heritage of Brussels. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Brussels Gueuze Museum and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of lambic beers. Plan your visit and prepare to be captivated by the authenticity of Brewery Cantillon.