Our press releases

Brouwerij Rodenbach intensifies production of its fruit beers Rodenbach Alexander and Rodenbach FruitAge

posted 20-04-18

Rodenbach Alexander, the premium fruit beer, originally launched as a Limited Edition, is returning to shelves permanently at the request of beer lovers

Rodenbach FruitAge, the refreshing and accessible fruit beer, will now also be available on the Belgian market

The legendary Rodenbach Alexander is now permanently available!

Rodenbach Alexander was originally brewed in 1986 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Alexander Rodenbach, co-founder of the Rodenbach brewing tradition. At the demand of beer connoisseurs, Rudi Ghequire, master brewer of Brouwerij Rodenbach, released a limited amount of Rodenbach Alexander onto the American market in 2016. The demand for a return of the beer arose during one of Rudi's 'Tours' of the United States, where Ghequire gives lectures on 'Rodenbach, Flanders Red Ale'. The return of Rodenbach Alexander was met with an extremely positive response, which was not limited to the US; many Belgian and Dutch beer lovers also expressed their appreciation. The brewing team was keen to meet this demand and launched a Limited Edition Rodenbach Alexander 75 cl. in 2016 and 2017. Due to popular demand, Rodenbach Alexander will now be available in packs of 4 x 33 cl, 75 cl bottles and, on a limited scale, in casks. The legend is reborn.

Rodenbach Alexander is based on Rodenbach Grand Cru* (*a blend of 1/3 young and 2/3 two-year-old beer matured in oak casks) that is macerated with sour cherries (5.6% vol/alc). "I am proud to say that this is one of the nicest fruit beers I have ever brewed, with a uniquely balanced sweet-sour taste, fruity cherry aroma and a complex aftertaste," says brew master Rudi Ghequire.

Rodenbach FruitAge, the ideal introduction to Rodenbach

Rodenbach FruitAge was first launched in the US. Due to its enormous success and many positive reviews, it is now also being launched onto the Belgian market. Rodenbach FruitAge is a quality fruit beer and the ideal introduction to Rodenbach due to its fruity flavour.

Rodenbach FruitAge is a delicious, refreshing fruit beer with a low alcohol content (4.2% vol/alc.), made from young beer, two-year-old cask-matured beer and red fruits. This balanced fruit beer is fruity and slightly sour, making it the ideal introductory beer to persuade consumers to try the other, more mature Rodenbach beers! In 2015 and 2016, this beer received the "Gold Award" and the award for the "World's Best Fruit Flavoured Beer" at the World Beer Awards.

Brouwerij Palm responds to consumer trends by launching alcohol-free Palm 0.0

posted 20-03-18

Palm 0.0 is an innovative product: a refreshing amber beer with 0% alcohol and 100% character

With Palm 0.0, Palm Belgian Craft Brewers is introducing the ultimate refreshing amber beer with 0% alcohol and 100% character. The creation of Palm 0.0 is the brewery's response to the trend towards responsible alcohol consumption and satisfies consumer demand for more flavour and character in the alcohol-free beverage segment. Palm 0.0 will be widely available in bars, restaurants and supermarkets from 19 March onwards.

Alcohol-free trend

The most recent beer barometer study — carried out by the Beer & Society Information Center, in collaboration with the websites Het Laatste Nieuws and 7sur7.be — shows that beer lovers believe the range of alcohol-free beers is too limited. The main reason is that consumers are dissatisfied with the flavour of alcohol-free beers and prefer other alcohol-free alternatives. This was reason enough for the brewers at Palm to respond to this demand by creating an alcohol-free, yet flavourful, version of the amber beer, Palm.

Know-how and synergy

The brewmasters at Palm were able to draw on years of experience brewing Palm and the Palm N.A <0.25% alcohol version. The combination of their knowledge, experience and new brewing technology has enabled Palm's brewing team to create a fully alcohol-free version of Palm.

Palm 0.0: 0% alcohol, 100% character

Consumers are drinking alcohol more responsibly and the alcohol-free beer segment is expanding exponentially, but consumers want their alcohol-free beers to have more character and flavour. Brewmaster Jan De Cock: "We're very pleased with the result of our Palm 0.0. We're convinced that Palm 0.0 satisfies the demands of the consumer who is looking for an alcohol-free beer with 100% character. The carefully chosen ingredients, including our hops that we cultivate ourselves, the Palm malt made from our own recipe and the brewing technology used guarantee 0% alcohol, 100% beer and 100% character!"

Introduction 0.0

As of 19 March Palm 0.0 will be available in bars and restaurants, from beverage wholesalers and in supermarkets. When Palm 0.0 is launched, it will replace the low-alcohol Palm N.A (< 0.25% vol/alc.).
Palm 0.0 will be available in crates of 24 x 25 cl and in packs of 6 x 25 cl. The recommended retail price for Palm 0.0 will not exceed Palm's.

La brasserie De Hoorn presents: 'Arthur's Legacy Aerts 2016'

posted 14-02-18

The brewers and ingredient masters of Brouwerij DE HOORN have taken their inspiration from the glorious Aerts 1900 beer for their new brew. The contemporary interpretation of the original recipe is a full-bodied, amber coloured beer with 8.2% alcohol by volume. The hop master selected Target and Golding for the beer's hopping. Some Golding hop is also added to Aerts 2016 right at the end of the main fermentation stage as a finishing touch. The brewing term for this is dry hopping.

Brewmaster Jan De Cock is proud of the result: "The combination of the two hop varieties offers a pleasant, harmonious bitterness and a hint of citrus. The selected yeast and used caramel malt add to the beer's fruitiness. The Aerts 2016's fairly high alcohol content has a warming effect and makes it beautifully round and full-bodied."

In 1979, Brouwerij Aerts in Brussels introduced Aerts 1900 based on a recipe from the year 1900. The beer was very much loved in the capital. Demand was so high that deliveries were limited and the beer was not supplied to all pubs. The brewery made specific demands with regard to the quality of the cellars where the beer was kept and the way the beer was poured.

One thousand litres of Aerts 2016 were brewed, tested and approved in 2016. Two years later, the beer was brewed in a larger volume and made available in 75 cl bottles with cork and re-fermentation in the bottle. Arthur’s Legacy Aerts 2016 is also available on draught in a number of selected bars and pubs in Belgium and Holland.

Characteristics: ‘Arthur’s Legacy AERTS 2016’

Brewery: DE HOORN, Steenhuffel
Alcohol: 8.2% alcohol by volume
Malt: Caramel malt
Hops: Target and Golding / 42 EBU
Colour: Amber
Bottle: 75 cl re-fermented

DE HOORN microbrewery: tradition-based innovation with room for creativity

In 2014, the DE HOORN microbrewery in Steenhuffel was reinstated. This small village brewery now provides facilities for brewers to brew 1,000-litre batches. Upon reopening, four ingredient masters were appointed, who specialise in the use of herbs, hops, fruit and wood in beer, building upon their historical and scientific knowledge and insights and applying these to the brewery's product development process. The small-scale nature of the brewery allows the brewing team more scope for creativity, so they can more easily develop limited edition prestige beers.

These craft brews are being dubbed ARTHUR’S LEGACY. The name ARTHUR’S LEGACY is a reference to one of the founders of the brewery, Arthur Van Roy. Arthur was a visionary, a brewer who stubbornly continued to believe in the success of high fermentation beers and was proven right. His ideas will be the inspiration for the ingredients masters and brewers to create a number of limited brews each year. Their creativity, passion and entrepreneurship results in new, extraordinary but above all unique beers, each based on one particular discipline: hops, fruit, herbs or wood.

Gold for Palm and Rodenbach Grand Cru and silver for Rodenbach Classic at the 2017 Brussels Beer Challenge

posted 20-11-17

The 85 internationally acclaimed jury members of the 2017 Brussels Beer Challenge have presented 2 golden awards and 1 silver award to PALM Belgian Craft Brewers. The gold awards went to Palm and Rodenbach Grand Cru and the silver was for Rodenbach Classic. Estaminet Pils has also received a 2017 Certificate of Excellence. This is a very fine result for Palm Belgian Craft Brewers in the year both Palm and Rodenbach underwent a restyle with strong marketing support. The main priority of the Palm and Rodenbach master brewers is to brew balanced quality beers day after day. These awards are a celebration of their expertise and passion.

Gold and silver for Rodenbach Grand Cru and Rodenbach Classic in the Flanders Red Ale category

And there was more to come, as the brewery also managed to secure first and second place in the Flanders Red Ale category. Over the decades, the fiercely independent Rodenbach family has succeeded in refining the brewing process and optimising the vinification and maturation of their beers in the 294 oak casks used by the brewery. Our master brewers and cellar masters monitor the quality of the beers throughout every step of the brewing process. It is the ideal combination of expertise and pure enjoyment, and has made Rodenbach world famous. According to beer expert Michael Jackson, Rodenbach Classic is ‘the most refreshing speciality beer’ and Rodenbach Grand Cru is perfect for beer tasting. The Rodenbach beers also underwent a complete restyle this spring. Rodenbach has been surprising all beer lovers since 1821. Today, the brewery's slogan ‘Rodenbach, Cheers to the unexpected’ is inviting beer fans to explore the Rodenbach beers further in a surprising way.

Gold for Palm in the Amber Ale category

Palm is a top-fermentation amber beer with an alcohol percentage no higher than that of pilsner (5.2% ABV). Its full-bodied flavour and pleasant bitterness are refreshing, but also make it a little more special than a standard beer. Palm owes its specific character to various factors, such as the yeast grown by the brewers themselves. The use of a distinct single malt offers additional complexity. Aromatic floral and fruity hop varieties, such as the Hallertau Mittelfrüh hop variety grown by the brewery itself, are selected for Palm. Palm got a new look in July. After the launch of the new packaging, Palm was supported with television advertising again in Flanders and the Netherlands. The new television campaign is one of the most important ways to introduce the general public to the updated yet trusted beer brand Palm. The new campaign is based on the slogan ‘Time for something ales’. With this slogan, the brewery shows everyone – including people who are new to beer – what makes Palm so special and which moments are just right for enjoying a Palm. Those moments are all about winding down with friends and family and escaping the chaos of everyday life for a while.

Brouwerij Rodenbach launches Rodenbach Vintage 2015, an exceptional Flemish Red Brown sour ale matured in ‘foeder’ (vat) 195 for 24 months

posted 21-09-17

Rodenbach Vintage is one of the jewels in the Rodenbach crown. Tradition has it that master brewer and cellar master Rudi Ghequire selects the best ‘foeder’ (vat) of the year. This Rodenbach beer has matured for 24 months and has been brewed just so it may carry the name 'Vintage'. Not blended with young beer, this unblended single cask is the pinnacle within the Rodenbach family. The Rodenbach Vintage 2015, matured in ‘foeder’ 195, is highly aromatic and has a very complex nose, with hints of oak and caramel with green apples combined with honey and liquorice.

The characteristics of Rodenbach Vintage 2015

The Rodenbach Vintage 2015 is a Limited Edition, highly aromatic and – like its predecessors – has a very complex nose, with hints of oak and caramel with green apples combined with honey and liquorice. The typical red-brown colour with a ruby tinge can be put down to the roasted malt with which it is brewed. A deep mahogany colour which lies between a long-matured Oloroso and a Pedro Ximénez sherry.

"The Rodenbach Vintage 2015's taste is well structured, complex, full, punchy and refreshing all at the same time. Here, too, an acidic, appley fruitiness combined with caramel, balsamic-like tones and oak with a touch of vanilla, sour cherry and liquorice come to the fore", says master brewer and cellar master Rudi Ghequire, adding, "The Vintage 2015 has an elegant aftertaste with a pronounced sweet and sour fruitiness which flows off the tongue and has a lovely mild-dry finish."

Beer and food pairing

This noble beer is the perfect accompaniment to gastronomic dishes. The acidic, appley freshness of the Rodenbach Vintage 2015 offers a wonderful counterbalance to the high fat content found in smoked eel, goose liver and blue cheeses to name but a few. These combinations elevate both the beer and the dish to the next level.

A profession of the highest order

Over the decades, the fiercely independent Rodenbach family has succeeded in refining the brewing process and optimising the vinification and maturation of their beers in the 294 oak vats used by the brewery. Our master brewers and cellar masters monitor the quality of the beers throughout every step of the brewing process. This has allowed Rodenbach to become world famous, with the beer not only being lauded in Belgium, but around the world, as the brewery won 11 awards at internationally renowned beer competitions in 2016. The Brouwerij Rodenbach range has expanded greatly over the years. Rodenbach Classic is the number one refreshing thirst quencher. Rodenbach Grand Cru and Rodenbach Vintage are ideal for sampling and perfect with good food. The same goes for the related fruit varieties, Rodenbach Alexander and Rodenbach Caractère Rouge.

Rodenbach Vintage 2015

Brouwerij PALM will pick the hops for PALM on Sunday 27 August

posted 16-08-17

A communal picking event

On 27 August, Brouwerij PALM will pick the hops for PALM Hop Select in Steenhuffel. According to tradition, the brewery will enlist the help of various consumers. Communal picking is a way to enjoy the beer and the craftsmanship of the hop farmer and brewer. Sign up for the hop harvest at www.hoppluk.be. The harvest will be a real celebration – all hop pickers will be treated to food and beverages. Later in the year, the hop pickers will be invited to observe the PALM Hop Select brewing process and taste the final result – the finished beer.

Food truck festival

The food truck festival is also present this year, tasty street food dishes will be served from dozens of vintage food trucks. The chefs work with high quality, local and seasonal produce. With PALM beer being served at the festival as well, this is a must-attend event for connoisseurs.

Watching and cycling

In October 2011, the experts at Brouwerij PALM planted 800 hop plants in the brewery's own hop garden. The hop field covers 3,500 m² and the hop plants are of the Hallertau Mittelfrüh variety. These plants produce around 3,000 hop bines. The first harvest took place in 2012.
This year marks the fourth hop harvest, with around 600 consumers assisting us. The PALM brewers use these home-picked hops to create PALM Hop Select.
This beautifully balanced connoisseurs' beer goes through three phases of hopping: Traditionally, the brewers add a first lot of hops to the vat in the brewing room. It's in this phase that the characteristic bitterness is formed. In the second phase, it's time for the Hallertau Mittelfrüh, a variety with a very fine, hoppy and light green aroma. These hops are added at the end of the boiling process. Brewers call this phase 'late hopping'. It's not quite over yet though, as the beer still needs just one more finishing touch! Following this main fermentation stage, the beer undergoes one last hopping. During this phase (referred to as dry hopping), the home-picked Hallertau Mittelfrüh hops are added. In order to ensure that optimal hoppy character and extra sparkle, our brewers have chosen to re-ferment the beer in the bottle. The rich amounts of hops and re-fermentation ensure good drinkability and a beer which is wonderfully digestible, with a magnificent head and, on top of all this, an excellent shelf-life.

 

Practical information for the PALM HOP HARVEST, 27 August 2017: All activities will be held in the centre of Steenhuffel, Flemish Brabant, Belgium

 

HOP HARVEST
To take part in the harvest, register at www.palmhopselect.be
Free admission for visitors from 10am to 5pm
Address: Hop field opposite the Diepensteyn Castle grounds, Brouwerijstraat/Plas, Steenhuffel

FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL
Try out tasty street food dishes and unique beers served from splendid vintage trucks
Free admission for visitors from 11am to 6pm
Address: Hop field opposite the Diepensteyn Castle grounds, Brouwerijstraat/Plas, Steenhuffel

VISIT TO THE PALM & DE HOORN BREWING ROOMS
Free admission for visitors from 10am to 5pm
Closing event around 6pm
Address: Brouwerij PALM & DE HOORN, Steenhuffeldorp 3, Steenhuffel

VISIT TO DIEPENSTEYN STUD FARM
Independent visits to the stud farm with the PALM horses and collection of brewery wagons
Address: Diepensteyn Castle, Diepensteyn 1, Steenhuffel

CYCLING TRIPS
Departure from Brouwerij PALM, De Oude Bottelarij Visitor Centre, Steenhuffeldorp 3, Steenhuffel

 

Programme details and other information:  www.hoppluk.be

 

PALM Belgian Craft Brewers believes in growth and invests in its brands, markets and breweries

posted 06-07-17

Following the relaunch of Rodenbach and Brugge Tripel and the launch of Cornet, the time is ripe for PALM Belgian Craft Brewers to revamp the PALM brand as well. At the same time, it has announced plans to invest EUR 20 million in production equipment at Brouwerij PALM in Steenhuffel.

There is room for a refreshing, full-bodied amber beer in the world of beers

Now more than ever, the brewing world is in a state of flux. In today's economy, which prioritises 'experience' over everything else, consumers are increasingly discovering the sheer diversity of beer styles on offer. For beer lovers, their beer experience is now much different to how it was in the past: the run-of-the-mill thirst-quencher of days gone by has now evolved into a tasty, intense beverage with a story behind it. More than anything else, beer drinkers can choose what they want to drink depending on how they are feeling. Heavy special beers used to be reserved for tastings, while alcohol-free beers were only ordered if the person was not able to drink alcohol. Now, however, special beers with a relatively normal alcohol content are gaining in popularity on the world stage. As such, the brewery believes that PALM can carve out its own lasting niche within this trend market. PALM is a Belgian top-fermentation amber beer which is accessible, refreshing and full of character.

New packaging for PALM

PALM will be packaged in a new design from the beginning of July. The entire PALM range (PALM, PALM Hop Select, PALM Royale, PALM NA and Dobbel Palm) will receive a new, modern appearance that looks sleek and streamlined without sacrificing the elements that make PALM iconic: the PALM horse, which serves as a reminder of the origins and roots of PALM. Also set to return is the laurel wreath with palm branches, which graced the label in years gone by. Last but not least, the green/red colour combination will be retained. The aim of the new packaging is to emphasise that PALM is a refreshing beer which is full of character and bursting with flavour. Consumers were closely involved in the creation process for the new design. The redesign will be widely promoted in stores and in cafes under the following slogan: 'PALM, time for something Ales.

PALM – the tasty thirst-quencher

PALM is a top-fermentation amber beer with an alcohol percentage no higher than that of pils (5.2% ABV) This makes it extremely refreshing and thirst-quenching. At the same time, the full-bodied flavour and pleasant bitterness make it a little more special than a standard beer. PALM's special character comes from the yeast produced on the premises by the brewers. In terms of malt, the brewers now opt to use a more pronounced full malt for additional complexity. The hop varieties selected are aromatic, floral and fruity, with the Hallertau Mittelfrüh hop variety being grown by the brewery itself.

Expanding PALM's distribution power

With 31.2 million units sold per year, PALM is the highest-selling amber beer in the Netherlands and Belgium. The brewery's vision is to continue to develop its rich range of artisanal beers within the global distribution network operated by Bavaria. Over the past year, the beers produced by PALM Belgian Craft Brewers have been successfully launched in dozens of new national markets. The aim, then, is to ensure sustained growth and establish a strong presence in the new export countries. The same applies to the PALM brand in its domestic markets in Belgium and the Netherlands, where it has the opportunity to reinforce its position.

Belief in a strong Belgian home base: investment of EUR 20 million in the brewery in Steenhuffel

Last year, the brewery announced an investment of EUR 2.3 million in its Rodenbach brewing facilities in Roeselare. Furthermore, the Swinkels family affirmed its faith in the expertise, knowledge and special skills at Brouwerij PALM in Steenhuffel. In addition to the investments in the brand, a master plan was approved for the investment of EUR 20 million into brewing, fermentation infrastructure.

Did you know...?

…PALM is a top-fermentation beer with a standard alcohol volume of 5.2%?
…PALM is brewed in the rural village of Steenhuffel in Flemish Brabant, Belgium?
…the brewery where PALM is brewed was founded in 1706?
…PALM beer appeared for the first time around 1908, but did not receive the name PALM until 1929?
…the horse on the label is a Belgian draught horse in reference to the origins of PALM?
…the brewery and the Stud Farm with around twenty horses are open to visitors?
…the brewery draws in around 20,000 visitors every year?
…the brewery invites beer lovers to help harvest the brewery's home-grown hops on the last Sunday of August and that anyone can sign up to take part at www.hoppluk.be ?
…the brewery has set out and signposted two cycle routes – the PALM Hop Select and the Cornet route – starting from Steenhuffel?

 

Brouwerij Rodenbach is investing in brands, markets and the brewery

posted 29-03-17

Brouwerij Rodenbach, known and recognised around the world as a brewer of Flemish Red Brown Sour Ales, has announced that it will be investing heavily in its brands, markets and brewery infrastructure in Roeselare, Belgium. All Rodenbach beers will undergo a redesign, a brand-supporting programme will be rolled out for Belgium and export countries, and the brewery will invest €2.7 million in brewing technology.

Time for a refresh: authenticity redesigned

The current Rodenbach labels date back to 2007. From March 2017, all Rodenbach beers will have a completely new design, with the entire line receiving a makeover. This will create more of a sense of unity within the extensive range of Rodenbach beers, and provide more clarity about which Rodenbach the consumer is buying. This will make it easier for beer connoisseurs to choose the Rodenbach variety that they prefer. The design of the iconic letter 'R', which appears on all packaging, is inspired by the Rodenbach 'R' from the past. Rodenbach has understood the art of brewing and the craft required to brew Flemish Red Brown Sour Ales since 1821. The brewery is understandably proud of its authenticity and tradition, and wants to show this to the world.

From now on, 'Classic' will be added to the name of Rodenbach's well-known beers. In the future, the label will be in three languages: Dutch, French and English for the many Rodenbach fans around the world. The three 'R's' will be proudly displayed on the label: Red, Ripened and Refreshing. These are the three key words with which Rodenbach Classic is synonymous. These terms are explained further in Dutch and French on the label on the back of the bottle. The Rodenbach Classic can will now look different as well. In addition to a makeover, it will be available in the same size as the bottle (25 cl). The 'ribbed glass' will be reintroduced alongside the familiar stemmed glass. The ribbed glass perfectly complements the thirst-quenching, refreshing character of Rodenbach Classic.

Thirst-quenching versus delicious

The Brouwerij Rodenbach range has expanded greatly over the years. Rodenbach Classic is the number one refreshing thirst quencher. Rodenbach Grand Cru and Rodenbach Vintage are ideal for sampling and perfect with good food. The same goes for the related fruit varieties, Rodenbach Alexander and Rodenbach Caractère Rouge. As with Rodenbach Classic, these connoisseurs' beers will receive a stylish new design and a new glass. The brewery will pair Rodenbach beers that are 6% ABV and above with an elegant stemmed glass from now on, making it ideal to sample and enjoy.

‘Flanders Red Ale’ or ‘Flemish Red Brown’ ?

Over the decades, the fiercely independent Rodenbach family has succeeded in refining the brewing process and optimising the vinification and maturation of their beers in the 294 oak vats used by the brewery. Our master brewers and cellar masters monitor the quality of the beers throughout every step of the brewing process. It is the ideal combination of expertise and pure enjoyment. This is why Rodenbach is famous around the world, celebrated in Belgium as 'Vlaams Rood-Bruin', and known in English principally as Flanders Red Ale. This name is listed on the label in three languages.

Promoting Rodenbach at home and abroad

Rodenbach is the undisputed market leader of Flemish Red Brown Sour Ales. As well as being highly acclaimed in Belgium, the brewery walked away with 11 awards at various prestigious international beer competitions in 2016. Recently, Wine Enthusiast Magazine, the reference magazine for wine in the USA with a readership of 800,000, awarded the Rodenbach connoisseurs' beers scores of 98, 97 and 96 points. This is just one more reason to promote the range of Rodenbach beers in the catering and retail sectors at home and abroad. Under the slogan 'Rodenbach, cheers to the unexpected', the brewery wants to give beer connoisseurs the chance to discover more Rodenbach beers. Since 1821, Rodenbach has been surprising beer lovers everywhere. This campaign is set to continue the tradition.

BRUGGE Tripel PRESTIGE 2016

posted 19-10-16

The Gouden Boom Brewery is launching a limited edition, the exclusive beer, BRUGGE Tripel PRESTIGE 2016. Since 2015, the brewing team and the herbalist at the Gouden Boom Brewery – together with a number of pub and restaurant owners – have been experimenting with brewing a BRUGGE Tripel extra enriched with a traditional gruut blend of herbs for each season exclusively for the city of Bruges. These experiments ultimately inspired the brewers to create the BRUGGE Tripel PRESTIGE 2016.

Brewing tradition:
The brewery is preserving the use of the 'gruut', a blend of herbs in place of hops, as an ingredient of traditional beer production in Bruges. The 'gruut' is a blend of herbs that gives BRUGGE Tripel its unique flavour. In the Bruges region, brewers in the Middle Ages were obliged to use gruut in place of hops. The gruut had to be purchased from the Lords of Gruuthuse.

Prestige and allure:
BRUGGE Tripel Prestige 2016 lives up to its name. BRUGGE Tripel is enriched with additional herbs, with the flavour of juniper berries being the most striking. At 9.5 % ABV, this strong tripel beer is characterised by a full, round flavour with slightly smoky accents. The beer is rich and creamy, while the use of juniper berries provides a crisp touch. The beer has a complex herbal aroma and is wonderfully balanced, offering a typical bitter/mild flavour.

'Gruut' at the core:
Brugge Tripel loves its native town. At the launch of BRUGGE Tripel PRESTIGE 2016, the brewery declared its intention to do a 'good deed' to support Bruges' cultural heritage, by donating EUR 0.50 for each bottle sold towards the restoration of the 'Gruuthuse' chapel.

Limited Edition:
BRUGGE Tripel PRESTIGE 2016 will be available in a limited edition from the end of September 2016. The beer is available in 330 ml and 750 ml bottles.

Images: http://www.palmimagebank.com/4-brugge-tripel/8-brugge-tripel/

The legendary RODENBACH ALEXANDER is back!

posted 27-09-16

The legendary RODENBACH ALEXANDER is back!

At the demand of beer connoisseurs, Rudi Ghequire, master brewer of Brouwerij Rodenbach, released a limited amount of RODENBACH Alexander onto the American market in spring 2016. The request to brew the beer again came during one of Rudi's 'tours' of the United States, during which he gives talks on RODENBACH and Flanders red-brown ales (called 'sour ales' in the US). The return of RODENBACH Alexander was met with an extremely positive response which was not limited to the US. Many Belgian and Dutch beer lovers had their say on social media as well. The brewing team was keen to meet the demand for RODENBACH Alexander, which is why another edition of the beer will be launched at the end of September. This time, the sale of the beer is not restricted to the US – beer fanatics will also be able to get their hands on RODENBACH Alexander in Belgium and the Netherlands.

Tasting notes: RODENBACH Alexander Limited Edition

RODENBACH Alexander is brewed as a limited edition in the brewery in Roeselare, West Flanders. This mixed fermentation beer consists of ⅔rds beer matured for 24 months in oak casks and ⅓ young (or green) beer. This blend is macerated with cherries, with the natural aroma and flavour of the cherries perfectly complementing the mature RODENBACH beer. We can also detect notes of wood as well as hints of almond from the cherry pits. The aftertaste is reminiscent of a Burgundy wine. The crisp freshness embodied by this beer makes it a perfect apéritif. It also goes well with a cheese course or dessert. The ideal serving temperature is between 6 and 10°C.

Who was Alexander Rodenbach?

Alexander Rodenbach was born on 28 September 1786 in Roeselare. He was a very special man. Despite being blind, he was an entrepreneur and author and was even elected mayor and member of parliament. He ran the brewery from 1821. In tribute to the great man, a festive beer going by the name of RODENBACH Alexander was released in 1986, 200 years after he was born.

Product images available at http://www.palmimagebank.com/2-rodenbach/

RODENBACH beers:
RODENBACH is a blend of ¾ young beer and ¼ beer matured for two years in oak casks.
RODENBACH ROSSO is a fruit beer based around old matured and young RODENBACH macerated with fresh cherries, raspberries and cranberries and the natural juices from all these berries.
RODENBACH Grand Cru is a blend of ⅓ young beer and ⅔ beer matured for two years in oak casks.
RODENBACH Alexander is a blend of ⅓ young beer and ⅔ two-year oak-matured beer. This blend is macerated with cherries. (5.6% ABV)
RODENBACH Vintage is the unique result of our RODENBACH-brewers selecting the cask which has produced the best beer after two years of maturation: “cask of the year”.
RODENBACH Caractère Rouge is matured for two years in oak casks and macerated with cranberries, cherries and raspberries for 6 months. (Co-created with star chef Viki Geunes, ‘t Zilte **).
RODENBACH is recognised as a Traditional Flemish Regional product and carries the VLAM label: Vlaams streekproduct.be 
The application procedure for a European "PDO" (Protected Designation of Origin) label has been submitted for Flemish Red Brown Sour Ales.

Peter Buelens, Public Relations Manager 
peter.buelens@palm.be +32 (0)52 31 74 67

Brouwerij PALM will pick the hops for PALM Hop Select on Sunday 28 August

posted 13-06-16

A communal picking event
On 28 August, Brouwerij PALM will pick the hops for PALM Hop Select in Steenhuffel. According to tradition, the brewery will enlist the help of various consumers. Communal picking is a way to enjoy the beer and the craftsmanship of the hop farmer and brewer. Sign up for the hop harvest at www.palmhopselect.be. The harvest will be a real celebration – all hop pickers will be treated to food and beverages. Later in the year, the hop pickers will be invited to observe the PALM Hop Select brewing process and taste the final result – the finished beer.

Food truck festival
The food truck festival is a new event this year, when tasty street food dishes will be served from dozens of vintage food trucks. The chefs work with high quality, local and seasonal produce. With PALM beer being served at the festival as well, this is a must-attend event for connoisseurs.

Watching and cycling
People who do not want to pick the hops are also welcome to attend. The hop harvest attracts plenty of enthusiastic onlookers who do not actually do any picking themselves. Along with the PALM brewing room, Brouwerij DE HOORN, well known for its CORNET and ARTHUR'S LEGACY beers, will open its doors to the public. Not only that, but visitors will have the chance to take a look around Diepensteyn Stud Farm, which is famous for its PALM horses.
Keen cyclists can take part in a 60-km or 100-km tour or a leisurely 26-km family ride.

Home-picked hops
In October 2011, the experts at Brouwerij PALM planted 800 hop plants in the brewery's own hop garden. The hop field covers 3,500 m² and the hop plants are of the Hallertau Mittelfrüh variety. These plants produce around 3,000 hop bines. The first harvest took place in 2012.
This year marks the fourth hop harvest, with around 500 consumers assisting us. The PALM brewers use these home-picked hops to create PALM Hop Select.
This beautifully balanced connoisseurs' beer goes through three phases of hopping: Traditionally, the brewers add a first lot of hops to the vat in the brewing room. It's in this phase that the characteristic bitterness is formed. In the second phase, it's time for the Hallertau Mittelfrüh, a variety with a very fine, hoppy and light green aroma. These hops are added at the end of the boiling process. Brewers call this phase 'late hopping'. It's not quite over yet though, as the beer still needs just one more finishing touch! Following this main fermentation stage, the beer undergoes one last hopping. During this phase (referred to as dry hopping), the home-picked Hallertau Mittelfrüh hops are added. In order to ensure that optimal hoppy character and extra sparkle, our brewers have chosen to re-ferment the beer in the bottle. The rich amounts of hops and re-fermentation ensure good drinkability and a beer which is wonderfully digestible, with a magnificent head and, on top of all this, an excellent shelf-life. 

Practical information for the PALM HOP HARVEST, 28 August 2016: All activities will be held in the centre of Steenhuffel, Flemish Brabant, Belgium

HOP HARVEST
To take part in the harvest, register at www.palmhopselect.be
Free admission for visitors from 10am to 5pm
Address: Hop field opposite the Diepensteyn Castle grounds, Brouwerijstraat/Plas, Steenhuffel

FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL
Try out tasty street food dishes and unique beers served from splendid vintage trucks
Free admission for visitors from 11am to 6pm
Address: Hop field opposite the Diepensteyn Castle grounds, Brouwerijstraat/Plas, Steenhuffel

VISIT TO THE PALM & DE HOORN BREWING ROOMS
Free admission for visitors from 10am to 5pm
Closing event around 6pm
Address: Brouwerij PALM & DE HOORN, Steenhuffeldorp 3, Steenhuffel

VISIT TO DIEPENSTEYN STUD FARM
Independent visits to the stud farm with the PALM horses and collection of brewery wagons
Address: Diepensteyn Castle, Diepensteyn 1, Steenhuffel

ORGANISED CYCLING TRIPS
60-km and 100-km cycling tours
+/- 26-km family ride
Registration and departure from the brewery from 8am to 1pm. Registration includes insurance, supplies, consumption and a tombola
Closing event around 6pm
Organised by De Sprinters Malderen
Address: Brouwerij PALM, De Oude Bottelarij Visitor Centre, Steenhuffeldorp 3, Steenhuffel

Programme details and other informationwww.palmhopselect.be

Bavaria N.V. acquires majority interest in Palm Belgian Craft Brewers

posted 10-05-16

Brabant-based family brewers join forces and strengthen portfolio

 

Steenhuffel, 10 May 2016 – Bavaria N.V. and Palm Belgian Craft Brewers announced today that they are joining forces. With the takeover, Bavaria N.V. has acquired 60% of the shares of, and thus majority interest in, Palm Belgian Craft Brewers. As of today, Palm Belgian Craft Brewers will be a part of Bavaria N.V. As of 2021, Palm Belgian Craft Brewers will be a 100% part of Bavaria N.V. The two family brewers are finding synergy amongst each other thanks to their mutual background and shared passion for beer. 

Together, Bavaria N.V. and Palm Belgian Craft Brewers have 600 years of beer brewing history. Bavaria’s history goes back to 1719, and today the brewery is being run in Lieshout by the seventh generation of the Swinkels family. The Toye family is at the helm of the Palm brewery, which was founded in 1686 in the Belgian town of Steenhuffel. In 2016 the brewers jointly produced more than 6.5 million hectolitres of beer.

Jan-Renier Swinkels, head of the board of Bavaria N.V.: “Belgium is the pre-eminent specialty beer country. We are proud of this cooperation and the merging of two wonderful family-owned companies that each have a centuries-old history. Palm Belgian Craft Brewers has developed a rich assortment of specialty beers during this time. This assortment is complementary to our brands, which is why this cooperation fits with our strategy of becoming the ultimate portfolio player. Palm has an important position in the Dutch market, and we see opportunities for further international growth. Furthermore, we will gain access to the Belgian retail and hospitality sectors with this cooperation.”

Jan Toye, owner of Palm Belgian Craft Brewers: “This is an important milestone for us. Brewing Belgian specialty beer has been our family tradition since 1686. After Palm’s strong growth, we strengthened our position through a number of acquisitions and innovations. In order to maximise our international distribution power, we went in search of a strategic partner, and Bavaria immediately felt like a ‘perfect fit’ due to the many synergies we encountered. We based our considerations on the central importance of the company and our employees, which is why we opted for extensive cooperation and subsequently a total merger of Palm Belgian Craft Breweries with Bavaria with complete confidence. I am entirely confident that our beautiful brewery locations and beers will continue to be nurtured by the Swinkels family and their Bavaria brewery!”

Strategy
This step is in line with Bavaria N.V.’s strategy to become the ultimate portfolio player. For Palm Belgian Craft Brewers this cooperation means a strengthening and acceleration of the growth strategy that has already been initiated. Palm Belgian Craft Brewers has a wide assortment of specialty beer brands, including Palm, Rodenbach, Brugge, Steenbrugge, Cornet, Arthur’s Legacy and Estaminet. Bavaria is active in 120 countries, with brands such as Bavaria Premium, Swinckels’ and 8.6. By merging with Bavaria N.V., Palm Belgian Craft Brewers will gain access to Bavaria N.V.’s international network, and Bavaria N.V. will increase its access to Belgian retail channels and the hospitality sector. In the months to come, both parties will work on merging the two family-owned breweries.

The Palm and De Hoorn breweries in Steenhuffel and the Rodenbach brewery in Roeselare are a part of the majority interest. These locations will continue to brew beer in the future. Palm Belgian Craft Brewers will continue to exist as a Belgian entity (N.V.) and will remain under Belgian leadership. Jan Toye will be Chairman of the Board of Directors, on which Jan-Renier Swinkels and Frank Swinkels will also have a seat.

 

ABOUT SWINKELS FAMILY BREWERIES N.V.

Swinkels Family Breweries N.V. is the holding company of Bavaria N.V. and, as an independent family-owned brewery, has a unique position on the international beer market. The company has been run by the Swinkels family for seven generations. The Lieshout-based company works closely together with the Trappist brewery de Koningshoeven and the De Molen brewery. Since 2015 the brewery has - together with 8,000 local shareholders - produced a beer in Ethiopia called Habesha. Because the company has two of its own malt-houses, the entire brewery process is still in-house. Swinkels Family Breweries N.V. is the only major brewery in the Netherlands that brews its beer with pure, natural mineral water from its own springs. This characterises the company’s most important philosophy: consistently high quality of its beers. Of the six million hectolitres annually brewed by the Brabant-based organisation, 65% is destined for the foreign market. In the meantime, more than 120 countries are enjoying the beers made by Swinkels Family Breweries N.V. In 2015 Bavaria N.V. received the IMD-Lombard Odier Global Family Business Award, hence selecting Bavaria N.V. as the world’s best family-owned company. The goal of this honour is to stress and promote the indispensable role of family-owned businesses in the world economy. The award is given to family-owned companies that unite family interests with business interests and tradition and innovation.

www.bavaria.com
www.bavariacorporate.com

 

ABOUT PALM BELGIAN CRAFT BREWERS

The Palm Belgian Craft Brewers brewery group has a joint production capacity of one million hectolitres and sales of € 53 million. The brewery holds a unique position in the beer landscape with its Belgian specialty beers of high and mixed fermentation. It is an original brewer of high-fermentation beers under the brand name Palm (Palm, Dobbel Palm, Palm Hop Select, Palm Royale, Palm N.A) and is clearly the market leader in the Benelux countries in the amber beers segment. Stemming from its passion for the Belgian beer patrimony, it acquired the Rodenbach brewery in 1998, known for its “Flemish Red-Brown” beers of mixed fermentation (Rodenbach, Rodenbach Grand Cru, Rodenbach Vintage, Rodenbach Caractère Rouge and Rodenbach Rosso) and its unique foeder rooms, where the beers mature in oak barrels for two years.

The acquisition of the De Gouden Boom brewery in Bruges in 2001 expanded the range of high-fermentation beers to the connoisseur beers segment with Brugge Tripel and the Steenbrugge abbey beers (Wit/Blanche - Dubbel Bruin – Blond - Abdijbock and Tripel).

Rooted in the passion for further innovation, the De Hoorn brewery was reinstalled in 2014 and four ingredient masters were hired. These masters specialise in using herbs, hops, fruit and wood in beer and they expand their historical and scientific knowledge and insight, applying these to the breweries’ product development. The Cornet and Arthur’s Legacy beers were launched from the De Hoorn brewery in 2014.

In the past, Palm Belgian Craft Brewers focused its export fully on the Netherlands, where Palm, together with the Palm sub-brands, is the most frequently sold specialty beer. Exporting outside of the Benelux countries is the new growth direction. The rich portfolio of Palm Belgian Craft Brewers, based on unique Belgian tradition, innovation and know-how, is the trump card for further growth in all markets.

The mission of Palm Belgian Craft Brewers: A passion for Belgian Thoroughbred Beers

As a Belgian family-owned, artisanal brewery, Palm Belgian Craft Brewers builds on a durable relationship with consumers who are looking for a unique taste and brand experience with Authentic Thoroughbred Beers, brewed with passion in historic brewery sites.

On 8 November 2007, the ‘Institute for the Family-Owned Business’ (‘Instituut voor het Familiebedrijf’) named the brewery ‘the best professionally managed family-owned business of 2007’, and on 12 October 2011 the brewery received the ‘Award for Sustainable Business Practices’ (‘Award voor Duurzaam Ondernemen’) on the basis of the Trends Business Tour 2011.

www.palm.be

PALM Belgian Craft Brewers the big winner at the Brussels Beer Challenge 2015

posted 09-11-15

2 x gold, 2 x silver and 3 x Certificates of Excellence 

PALM Belgian Craft Brewers came home with 7 awards from the Brussels Beer Challenge including 2 golds.

It is a wonderful recognition of our focus on unique and delicious beers which the consumer enjoys, discovers and brings to life. The innovation and specialisation that extend throughout our breweries have been rewarded.

RODENBACH Vintage crowned World’s Best Vintage Beer and RODENBACH Rosso named World’s Best Flavoured Beer at the World Beer Awards (UK)!

posted 01-10-15

Brouwerij RODENBACH in Roeselare is delighted to announce that RODENBACH Vintage has been crowned the World's Best Vintage Beer and RODENBACH Rosso the World's Best Flavoured Beer at the World Beer Awards (UK). The WBA is widely recognised as one of the most important professional beer competitions in Europe. Alongside these two world titles, RODENBACH Grand Cru also won a gold medal, while RODENBACH Caractère Rouge won silver and RODENBACH was awarded bronze.
"This is an absolutely fantastic result," says Brewmaster Rudi Ghequire. "The fact that the professional jury has singled out our RODENBACH beers for praise in this way shows that our beer is recognised for its quality. We have been brewing and maturing our Flemish Red Brown Sour Ales through mixed fermentation here in Roeselare since 1836, with a great deal of passion and expertise. RODENBACH not only has a loyal following in Belgium, but is now wildly popular in the United States too."

RODENBACH Vintage 2013:
This exclusive, limited-edition RODENBACH Vintage 2013 was matured for two years in foeder No. 149, a 59-year-old foeder that was carefully selected by our Brewmaster and Cellar Master, Rudi Ghequire. No. 149 has been a leading foeder for many years, earning the nickname ‘the Sire’ due to its amazing propagation of the unique micro flora that is responsible for producing the exquisite RODENBACH flavour. "This exceptional Flemish Red Brown Sour Ale is one of the finest we have ever produced, with a uniquely balanced sweet and sour palette and complex aftertaste," adds Rudi Ghequire.

RODENBACH Rosso:
Rudi Ghequire describes the beer: “This mixed-fermentation fruit beer is fresh, fruity and very refreshing, with a slightly dry aftertaste, the colour of a young Burgundy wine and a low alcohol content. This makes the beer very refreshing, differentiating our creation from many other fruit beers on the market.”

Product images available at http://www.palmimagebank.com/2-rodenbach/

RODENBACH beers:
RODENBACH is a blend of ¾ young beer and ¼ beer matured for two years in oak casks.
RODENBACH ROSSO is a fruit beer based around old matured and young RODENBACH macerated with fresh cherries, raspberries and cranberries and the natural juices from all these berries.
RODENBACH Grand Cru is a blend of ⅓ young beer and ⅔ beer matured for two years in oak casks.
RODENBACH Vintage is the unique result of our RODENBACH-brewers selecting the cask which has produced the best beer after two years of maturation: “cask of the year”.
RODENBACH Caractère Rouge is matured for two years in oak casks and macerated with cranberries, cherries and raspberries for 6 months. (Co-created with star chef Viki Geunes, ‘t Zilte **).
RODENBACH is recognised as a Traditional Flemish Regional product and carries the VLAM label: Vlaams streekproduct.be 
The application procedure for a European "PDO" (Protected Designation of Origin) label has been submitted for Flemish Red Brown Sour Ales.

Peter Buelens, Public Relations Manager 
peter.buelens@palm.be +32 (0)52 31 74 67

"WHITE WIDOW": the first Arthur's Legacy beer from BROUWERIJ DE HOORN

posted 11-03-15

The DE HOORN microbrewery: tradition-based innovation with room for creativity 

In 2014, the DE HOORN microbrewery in Steenhuffel was reinstated. This small village brewery now provides facilities for brewers to brew 1,000-litre batches. Upon reopening, four ingredient masters were appointed: they specialise in the use of herbs, hops, fruit and wood in beer, building upon their historical and scientific knowledge and insights and applying these to the brewery's product development process. The small-scale nature of the brewery allows the brewing team more room for creativity, so they can more easily develop limited edition prestige beers.

These craft brews are being dubbed ARTHUR’S LEGACY. The name ARTHUR’S LEGACY is a reference to Arthur Van Roy, the great uncle of the current family brewer and owner, Jan Toye. Arthur was a visionary: he was the one who obstinately continued to believe that high fermentation beers would be a success, and in the end he was right. Based on his ideas, the ingredient and brewing masters work on coming up with a certain number of limited brews each year. Their creativity, passion and entrepreneurship lead to new, exceptional and above all unique beers, each based on one particular discipline: hops, fruit, herbs or wood. 

The first ARTHUR’S LEGACY: "WHITE WIDOW"

"White Widow" has an alcohol content of 7.1%. It has been brewed with 40% wheat, leaving this Arthur's Legacy not only turbid, but full-bodied in flavour with a subtle aftertaste. White Widow is primarily characterised by its pronounced fresh and fruity citrus character, resulting from a selection of fresh herbs.

Characteristics: Arthur’s Legacy – White Widow: 

Brewery: DE HOORN, Steenhuffel
Alcohol: 7,1% Vol. Alc
Malt: Pale malt and wheat produce a turbid effect and an attractive head due to their high protein content
Hops: Target
Herbs: Coriander and curacoa provide for a typical citrus character
Colour: Blonde
Limited: 7 brews of 1,000 litres / 75 cl bottles and 20 litre casks

End of press release     www.palm.be

Press Contact: Peter Buelens, PR & Marketing Manager - +32 (0)52 31 74 76 peter.buelens@palm.be

PALM Belgian Craft Brewers the big winner at the WORLD BEER AWARDS: 4 gold, 2 silver and 3 bronze medals

posted 30-09-14

PALM Belgian Craft Brewers came home with 9 medals from the World Beer Awards in the UK, including 4 golds. Jan Toye, a passionate brewer, is extremely pleased: “It is a wonderful recognition of our focus on unique and delicious beers which the consumer enjoys, discovers and brings to life. The innovation and specialisation that extend throughout our breweries have been rewarded.”

En plus de la RODENBACH Vintage qui a été reconnue comme meilleure « Bière Vintage » au mondecette récompense en or pour la toute récente bière CORNET est une véritable aubaine ! Le nom de cette bière rend hommage à Theodoor Cornet qui, selon le recensement de 1686, était aubergiste, brasseur et bouilleur de cru à l'auberge DE HOORN à Steenhuffel. Il était également régisseur du comte de Steenhuffel-Maldegem, seigneur de Diepensteyn. À la demande du comte, Theodoor brassa une bière de garde. Il conserva cette bière exclusive en fût de chêne dans les caves du Château de Diepensteyn. Cette technique a inspiré les brasseurs et le maître du bois. Des recherches et une acquisition de connaissances approfondies dans l'utilisation du chêne pour la bière ont donné naissance à la CORNET, une bière blonde forte (8,5° Alc), assez sèche, présentant une note boisée très subtile, tenace et raffinée, avec une touche de vanille et un goût « velouté » en bouche, à l'instar d'un vin vieilli en fût de chêne. Cette bière unique est servie dans un calice en verre, dont le pied arbore d'ailleurs le masque de combat du comte.

 

World’s Best Beers 2014:

Gold:

Vintage Dark Beer: RODENBACH VINTAGE

Europe’s Best Beers 2014 :

Gold :

Europe’s best wood aged:  CORNET

Best Vintage: RODENBACH VINTAGE

Best Oud Bruin: RODENBACH GRAND CRU

Silver:

Flavoured Beer: RODENBACH CARACTERE ROUGE

Lager: ESTAMINET

Bronze :

Dark Beer: STEENBRUGGE DUBBEL BRUIN

Pale Beer: BRUGGE TRIPEL

Pale Beer: STEENBRUGGE TRIPEL

 

End of press release    www.palm.be   visual materialhttp://www.palmimagebank.com/ 

Press contact : Peter Buelens, PR & Marketing Manager - 052.31.74.76 peter.buelens@palm.be

PALM Belgian Craft Brewers is the new name for PALM Breweries

posted 24-08-14

The Steenhuffel brewery has announced that from now on it will be operating as PALM Belgian Craft Brewers (abbreviation: PALM nv-sa).

Jan Toye, Managing Director: "The name PALM Breweries no longer reflects our vision and mission. As family brewers we want to brew – in our four historic brewery sites that each specialise in one of the four traditional fermentation processes – authentic beers with a unique taste experience, thereby capitalising on the new trend of consumers wanting to discover and experience the innovative passion of craft brewers. Our craftsmanship and the relationship between brewer and consumer were insufficiently reflected in our name. The name "PALM Belgian Craft Brewers" gives extra emphasises to the elements we stand for.”

Moreover, the logo refers to the long tradition and expertise of the family brewery. Its history dates back to 1686 when, according to the census, Theodoor Cornet was innkeeper, brewer and distiller of the "DE HOORN" inn in Steenhuffel.

Jan Vandenwyngaerden, CEO: "We want to take our cue for continued innovation of the Premium and Prestige beer segment from that tradition; the re-installation of Brouwerij DE HOORN and the launch of new beers such as CORNET and ARTHUR'S LEGACY are proof of that.

 

PALM to re-install the DE HOORN village brewery: innovation based on tradition with room for creativity is part of our strategic plan.

"Respect for the authentic craft of brewery is a high priority at PALM Belgian Craft Brewers, and it is one of our core company values. The challenge is to meet our consumers' demand for new experiences in an authentic way, faithful to our values and rooted in the centuries-old brewers' craft. The re-installation of the small DE HOORN village brewery will allow our brewers to make brews of 10 hectolitres (1,000 litres); in comparison: the capacity of the Brouwerij PALM brewing room is 400 hl per brew. These smaller, more artisanal brews will allow our team of brewers to express their creativity and develop “limited Prestige editions” more quickly," says Production Director, Andrew Lestiboudois.

The brewery is launching CORNET, Strong Belgian Blond - Oaked

The beer is named after Theodoor Cornet who, according to the census of 1686, was innkeeper, brewer and distiller of the "DE HOORN" inn in Steenhuffel. He was also a steward of the Count of Maldeghem-Steenhuffele, lord of Diepensteyn. At the count's request, Theodoor brewed a stock beer. This exclusive beer was kept in oak barrels in the cellars of Diepensteyn Castle. This inspired the brewers and the wood master. After thoroughly researching and acquiring knowledge in the use of oak in brewing beer, our brewers created CORNET, a heavy (8.5° Alc), fairly dry, blond ale that has a subtle, willful and sophisticated wood flavour with a note of vanilla and a "velvety" mouth feel that rivals that of an oak-matured wine. This unique beer is served in a tall glass chalice which bears the Count's battle mask in the foot.

Cross-fertilisation between market knowledge and authentic brewing expertise:

PALM Belgian Craft Brewers is the only brewery that uses the four authentic fermentation methods – low, high, spontaneous and mixed fermentation – from its different historical breweries: PALM / DE HOORN – RODENBACH – DE GOUDEN BOOM (incl. “Gruut” Experience Center) – BOON. Driven by our passion to innovate, we appointed four ingredients masters who specialise in the use of herbs, hops, fruit and wood in beer. Here they can build and expand their historical and scientific knowledge and understanding and apply this in continued product development of the breweries.

 

The ingredients masters of PALM Belgian Craft Brewers

The herbal master: Before hops were added to beers as a flavouring and aroma ingredient, herbal blends (also called "gruut") were added to beers. Many beers today are spiced with coriander or curaçao. But just as in the past, there are many blends with gale, yarrow, juniper, sage, rosemary, star anise, liquorice, cardamom, cloves, paradise seed... The Brugge beers from Brouwerij DE GOUDEN BOOM: BRUGGE TRIPEL and the STEENBRUGGE abbey beers are typical "gruut" beers whose blends of herbs are created the herbal master.

The hops master: After malt, water and yeast, hops are the most obvious ingredient used in the brewery these days. Nevertheless, new varieties of hops are being bred at a rapid pace and interesting new hops aromas are being marketed. The hops master follows these developments very closely. PALM Hop Select, created from Hallertau-Mittelfrüh hops from our own hop field in Steenhuffel, is a famous example.

The fruit master: In the past few years the use of fruit in beers has regained popularity. But we can be much more authentic and do much more than the contemporary practice of using the aromas of cherries, sweet cherries and raspberries in beers. Many other indigenous fruits can be used, including in the form of fresh fruit juices and/or macerated in the brew. Prime examples of this are RODENBACH Caractère Rouge and the more accessible RODENBACH Rosso, recently developed under the watchful eye of the fruit master.

The wood master: Brouwerij RODENBACH has been using oak for 180 years to create beers like RODENBACH, RODENBACH Grand Cru and RODENBACH Vintage, which mature in large, oak casks. In Steenhuffel, this tradition of oaked beers is being rekindled with the use of oak wood as a flavouring. The wood master likes to experiment with French, Hungarian and American oak, in untoasted, half-toasted and full-toasted form. CORNET was born from the creativity and expertise of our wood master.

Continued investment in Premium and Prestige brands

Jan Vandenwyngaerden, CEO: "For PALM Belgian Craft Brewers, continuing to invest in the Premium and Prestige beer segment is a strategic choice. This requires efforts in infrastructure, further development of the innovation unit, support for the ingredients masters, but also a focused market approach and support in the Benelux and in the export countries. Using our experience, our goal is to develop beers for consumers that are distinctive, attractive and unique in their kind. After the launch of RODENBACH Rosso this year, we are now ready to present CORNET and expect to be able to introduce ARTHUR'S LEGACY by the end of this year from our DE HOORN village brewery."

ARTHUR'S LEGACY refers to Arthur Van Roy, the great-uncle of the present family brewer Jan Toye. Arthur was a visionary, a brewer who stubbornly continued to believe in the success of high fermentation beers and was proven right. His ideas will be the inspiration for the ingredients masters and brewers to create a number of limited brews each year. Their creativity, passion and entrepreneurship will result in new, extraordinary but especially unique beers, each based on one particular discipline: hops, fruit, herbs or wood. This "limited edition" will be exclusively offered to the market in small quantities.

The hops for PALM Hop Select is going to be harvested. We will celebrate this at the festive HOPSFEEST on Sunday 31 August: second public PALM hop picking and lots more...

 

In October 2011, we at Brouwerij PALM planted 800 hop plants in our own hop garden. The PALM hops field covers 3,500 m² and the hops plants are of the Hallertau Mittelfrüh variety.These plants produce around 3,000 hops bines. In 2012, the first harvest took place. With these home-grown and home-picked hops the PALM brewers created PALM Hop Select, a complex yet balanced connoisseurs' beer. This year we will again host a hop picking day, with around 450 consumers assisting us! Later in the year the PALM hop pickers will be invited to see the brewing process of the PALM Hop Select and then taste the result – the finished beer.

 

The hop picking also attracts enthusiasts who will not actually do any picking! A number of alternative activities are also on the programme. Keen cyclists can take part in a 'mountain bike ride', a 'cycle ride' or, if they prefer, a leisurely 'family ride'. For walkers, there is the 'family walk'. In the afternoon, Brouwerij PALM will donate €25,000 to associations in Londerzeel under the banner of theALFRED VAN ROY FUND. The Highland Games will take place at the castle meadow. The new De Hoorn village brewery will also be opening its doors for the first time. Visitors will also be offered the chance to look around the Diepensteyn Stud Farm, famous for its chestnut draught horses. (programme: www.palmhopselect.be)

 

End of press release   www.palm.be  visual material: http://www.palmimagebank.com/

Press contact:

Peter Buelens, PR & Marketing Manager – 052.31.74.76 peter.buelens@palm.be

PALM Hop Select - HOPFEEST 31 August 2014

posted 14-08-14

On 31 August, the second PALM Hop Select ? Hopfeest will take place in and around the grounds of Diepensteyn Castle in Steenhuffel. The home-grown hops for PALM Hop Select will be picked, with some 400 consumers getting the chance to help. Various elements will come together to create a varied programme: the main event is of course the hop picking, but many other activities are being organised as well. Keen cyclists can indulge their passion with a 'mountain bike ride', a 'cycle ride' or a 'family ride'. For walkers, there is the 'family walk'. In the marquee, we will be serving a dish specially created by top chef Viki Geunes (**) and last but not least? the brewery is offering the chance to visit its museum and brewing room, not to mention the opening of the new DE HOORNcraft brewery for the first time!

Sunday 31 August: second public PALM hop picking and lots more...

In October 2011, we at Brouwerij PALM planted 800 hop plants in our own hop garden. The PALM hop field covers 3,500 m² and the hop plants are of the Hallertau Mittelfrüh variety. These plants produce around 3,000 hop bines. In 2012, the first harvest took place. With these home-grown and home-picked hops the PALM brewers created PALM Hop Select (*), a complex yet balanced connoisseurs' beer. For the second time, we will be holding a public hop picking! Afterwards the PALM hop pickers will be invited to see the brewing process and then taste the result ? the finished beer. The hop picking also attracts enthusiasts who will not actually do any picking!

Together with Kiwanis Londerzeel, in support of young people from Londerzeel, we have put together an extensive programme of activities. Keen cyclists can take part in a 35 or 50 km 'mountain bike ride', a 60 or 100 km 'cycle ride' or even a leisurely 26 km 'family ride'. For walkers there is the 7 km 'family walk'. In the big marquee, we will be serving pork ragout made with PALM Hop Select according to a recipe created by top chef Viki Geunes from two Michelin starred restaurant 't Zilte in Antwerp.

Visitors will also be offered the chance to look around the Diepensteyn Stud Farm. The new De Hoorn craft brewery will also be opening its doors for the first time.

Practical info for hop picking on 31 August:

Hop picking:

  • The hop plantation is situated opposite Diepensteyn Castle at Diepensteyn 1, Steenhuffel.
  • Picking will take place in series of 20 pickers ? changing over every half hour from 10am to 5pm
  • To register as a picker go to www.palmhopselect.be

 

Visit to PALM brewing room and De Hoorn craft brewery:

  • Independent visits from 10am ending at 5pm

 

Visit to Diepensteyn Stud Farm:

  • Independent visits to the stud farm with the PALM horses

 

Cycling and walking:

  • Departing between 8am and 12pm from the central marquee ? right opposite Diepensteyn Castle - Diepensteyn 1, Steenhuffel -register on the spot
  • Kiwanis Mountain Bike Ride (35 km and 50 km)
  • Kiwanis Family Cycle Ride (26 km)
  • Kiwanis Cycle Ride (60 km 100 km)
  • Kiwanis Walk (7 km)
  • All activities cost 5??euro?including participant pack and consumption

 

Food and drink:

  • Marquee: Situated right opposite Diepensteyn Castle - Diepensteyn 1, Steenhuffel
  • Kiwanis Food Festival: Pork ragout with PALM Hop Select ? Home-made Lasagne (from 11am to 3pm) - 15?euro?(children 10?euro)
  • Drinks available from 8am to 5pm

 

Programme:

www.palmhopselect.be?/?www.kiwanis-londerzeel.be

 

Images:

www.palmimagebank.com/1-palm/18-palm-hop-select/

End of press release

Press contact:

Peter Buelens , Public Relations & Marketing Manager

Brouwerij PALM, Steenhuffeldorp 3 - 1840 Steenhuffel

Tel:(+32) 052.31.74.67?

peter.buelens@palmbreweries.com

 
  http___www.palmimagebank.com_files_files_STEMPEL_INTERNATIONAL

 

(*)PALM HOP SELECT:

To create PALM Hop Select, our brewers certainly didn't rush things. This beautifully balanced connoisseurs' beer goes through three phases of hopping: Traditionally, the brewers add a first lot of hops to the vat in the brewing room. It's in this phase that the characteristic bitterness is formed. In the second phase, it's time for the Hallertau Mittelfrüh, a variety with a very fine, hoppy and light green aroma. These hops are added at the end of the boiling process. Brewers call this phase 'late hopping'. It's not quite over yet though, as the beer still needs just one more finishing touch! Following this main fermentation stage, the beer undergoes one last hopping. In this 'dry hopping' phase, we use our own Hallertau Mittelfrüh hops. PALM Hop Select is a complex yet balanced connoisseurs' beer with an alcohol volume of 6% vol/alc. Speciale Belge Ale served as a basis for the malt composition and choice of yeast. This is where the beer gets its subtle touch of caramel, mellowness and fruitiness from. In order to ensure that optimal hoppy character and extra sparkle, our brewers have chosen to re-ferment the beer in the bottle. The rich amounts of hops and re-fermentation ensure good drinkability and a beer which is wonderfully digestible, with a magnificent head and, on top of all this, an excellent shelf-life.

PALM Hop Select - HOPFEEST 31 August 2014

posted 23-06-14

Steenhuffel (B), 17 June 2014

On 31 August, the second "PALM Hop Select - Hopfeest"will take place in and around the grounds of Diepensteyn Castle in Steenhuffel. The home-grown hops for PALM Hop Select will be picked, with some 400 consumers getting the chance to help. Various elements will come together to create a varied programme: the main event is of course the hop picking, but many other activities are being organised as well. Keen cyclists can indulge their passion with a 'mountain bike ride', a 'cycle ride' or a 'family ride'. For walkers, there is the 'family walk'. In the marquee, we will be serving a dish specially created by top chef Viki Geunes (**) and?last but not least? the brewery is offering the chance to visit its museum and brewing room, not to mention the opening of the new"DE HOORN"craft brewery"for the first time!

Sunday 31 August: second public PALM hop picking and lots more...

In October 2011, we at Brouwerij PALM planted 800 hop plants in our own hop garden. The PALM hop field covers 3,500 m² and the hop plants are of the?Hallertau Mittelfrüh?variety. These plants produce around 3,000 hop bines. In 2012, the first harvest took place. With these home-grown and home-picked hops the PALM brewers created PALM Hop Select (*), a complex yet balanced connoisseurs' beer. For the second time, we will be holding a public hop picking! Afterwards the PALM hop pickers will be invited to see the brewing process and then taste the result ? the finished beer. The"hop picking"also attracts enthusiasts who will not actually do any picking!

Together with Kiwanis Londerzeel, in support of young people from Londerzeel, we have put together an extensive programme of activities. Keen cyclists can take part in a 35 or 50 km 'mountain bike ride', a 60 or 100 km 'cycle ride' or even a leisurely 26 km 'family ride'. For walkers there is the 7 km 'family walk'. In the big marquee, we will be serving pork ragout made with PALM Hop Select according to a recipe created by top chef Viki Geunes from two Michelin starred restaurant 't Zilte in Antwerp.

Visitors will also be offered the chance to look around the "Diepensteyn Stud Farm". The new"De Hoorn craft brewery" will also be opening its doors for the first time.

Practical info for hop picking on 31 August:

Hop picking:

  • The hop plantation is situated opposite Diepensteyn Castle at Diepensteyn 1, Steenhuffel.
  • Picking will take place in series of 20 pickers - changing over every half hour from 10am to 5pm

Visit to PALM brewing room and De Hoorn craft brewery:

Independent visits from 10am ending at 5pm

Visit to Diepensteyn Stud Farm:

Independent visits to the stud farm with the PALM horses

Cycling and walking:

  • Departing between 8am and 12pm from the central marquee ? right opposite Diepensteyn Castle ? Diepensteyn 1, Steenhuffel ? register on the spot
  • Kiwanis Mountain Bike Ride (35 km and 50 km)
  • Kiwanis Family Cycle Ride (26 km)
  • Kiwanis Cycle Ride (60 km 100 km)
  • Kiwanis Walk (7 km)
  • All activities cost ?5 including participant pack and consumption

Food and drink:

  • Marquee: Situated right opposite Diepensteyn Castle ? Diepensteyn 1, Steenhuffel
  • Kiwanis Food Festival: Pork ragout with PALM Hop Select ? Home-made Lasagne (from 11am to 3pm) - ?15 (children ?10)
  • Drinks available from 8am to 5pm

Programme:

www.palmhopselect.be?-?www.kiwanis-londerzeel.be

Images:

www.palmimagebank.com/1-palm/18-palm-hop-select/

End of press release

Press contact:

Peter Buelens, Public Relations & Marketing Manager

Brouwerij PALM, Steenhuffeldorp 3 - 1840 Steenhuffel

Tel.:(+32) 052 31 74 67

peter.buelens@palmbreweries.com

 
  http___www.palmimagebank.com_files_files_STEMPEL_INTERNATIONAL

 

(*)?PALM HOP SELECT:

 

To create PALM Hop Select, our brewers certainly didn't rush things. This beautifully balanced connoisseurs' beer goes through three phases of hopping: Traditionally, the brewers add a first lot of hops to the vat in the brewing room. It's in this phase that the characteristic bitterness is formed. In the second phase, it's time for the Hallertau Mittelfrüh, a variety with a very fine, hoppy and light green aroma. These hops are added at the end of the boiling process. Brewers call this phase 'late hopping'. It's not quite over yet though, as the beer still needs just one more finishing touch! Following this main fermentation stage, the beer undergoes one last hopping. In this 'dry hopping' phase, we use our own Hallertau Mittelfrüh hops. PALM Hop Select is a complex yet balanced connoisseurs' beer with an alcohol volume of 6% vol/alc. Speciale Belge Ale served as a basis for the malt composition and choice of yeast. This is where the beer gets its subtle touch of caramel, mellowness and fruitiness from. In order to ensure that optimal hoppy character and extra sparkle, our brewers have chosen to re-ferment the beer in the bottle. The rich amounts of hops and re-fermentation ensure good drinkability and a beer which is wonderfully digestible, with a magnificent head and, on top of all this, an excellent shelf-life.

Celebrity chef Viki Geunes and Brouwerij RODENBACH launch RODENBACH Caractère Rouge 2014

posted 26-05-14

Our brewer and fruit masters, together with Viki Geunes, put their all into bottling RODENBACH Caractère Rouge in time for this year's summer. Thanks to his astute, unique tasting skills and his exceptional creativity, Viki Geunes has been contributing to product innovation and development at Brouwerij Rodenbach since 2011.

The brewers allow the RODENBACH Vintage, which traditionally matures for two years in large oak casks , to macerate for six more months with fresh cherries, raspberries and cranberries. The result is RODENBACH Caractère Rouge, an exceptional RODENBACH with fruit maceration and a 7% alcohol volume. This beer is extremely unique as well as exclusive, given that it is produced as a "Limited Edition" and cork-sealed in 75 cl champagne-style bottles. Half of the bottles produced will be exported. The largest quantities are exported to America where "Sour Ales" go down really well. At ?t Zilte, Geunes combines this feisty beer with his sophisticated gastronomic creations.

RODENBACH Caractère Rouge: a complex, rich and refined beer

Master brewer Rudi Ghequire explains: "RODENBACH Caractère Rouge 2014, with an alcohol volume of 7%, is created by a six months' fermenting maceration with fresh fruit ? cherries, raspberries and cranberries ? based on the 2011 vintage RODENBACH. Prior to this, the beer has already been maturing in oak casks for two years. A regal, almost wine-like beer, with a highly complex fruity nose of raspberry and cherry combined with woody notes and caramel. There is an undertone of violets, rhubarb, leather and a hint of tobacco. This fruit beer tastes pleasantly sour at first but possesses an exceptional purity, comparable with a Brut Champagne."

Viki Geunes is clearly enthusiastic about RODENBACH Caractère Rouge: "Together with the brewers and fruit masters from RODENBACH and my own sommeliers, we experimented a great deal to arrive at the perfect blend. We can be proud of the result. Just like in my cuisine, I was striving for depth and complexity and that's just what RODENBACH Caractère Rouge represents!"

Geunes goes on to say: ?Caractère Rouge plays upon the need for more freshness, we have succeeded in giving the beer a "crispy touch"; when you sample the beer it is as if you are biting into a piece of crisp summer fruit. Initially, you encounter a pleasantly refreshing sour taste followed by a balance of sweet and mature flavours; an exhilarating taste experience! The slight residual sweetness balances out the taste combination of sour, sweet and dry. This dryness is mainly due to the cranberries, which give the beer a particularly long and pure aftertaste. The beer is reminiscent of the unique combination of delicacy and strength of a crisp Burgundy wine."

RODENBACH Caractère Rouge Awards:

2012, Brussels Beer Challenge: Gold Medal - Flavoured Beer Wood Aged

2012, European Star Awards: Gold Award - Belgian-Style-Fruit Sour Ale

2012, Horeca Expo: Trailblazer Award

2013, Brussels Beer Challenge: Silver Medal

2013, World Beer Awards: Europe?s Best Fruit Flavoured Beer

2013, Sparflex - Beer Passion Packaging Award

Product pictures

http://www.palmimagebank.com/2-rodenbach/21-rodenbach-caractre-rouge/

RODENBACH? ?nice to know?:

BROUWERIJ RODENBACH: Since 1821, the leading specialist brewer of mixed-fermentation Flemish Red-brown beer (Sour Ale).RODENBACH beers mature in 294 oak casks.

RODENBACH is a blend of ¾ young beer and ¼ two-year oak-matured beer.

RODENBACH ROSSO is a fruit beer based around old matured and young RODENBACH macerated with fresh cherries, raspberries and cranberries and the natural juices from all these berries.

RODENBACH Grand Cru is a blend of ? young beer and ? two-year oak-matured beer.

RODENBACH Vintage has undergone maturation for two years in a specially selected cask. (Single Cask)

RODENBACH Caractère Rouge is matured for two years in oak casks and then macerated with cranberries, cherries and raspberries for six months. (Co-creation with top chef Viki Geunes from ?t Zilte **)

RODENBACH has been recognised as a traditional Flemish regional product and therefore carries the VLAM label: Vlaams streekproduct.be

The application procedure for a European PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) label has been submitted for Flemish Red Brown Sour Ales.

Media contact:

Brouwerij RODENBACH

Peter Buelens, Public Relations Manager

052.31.74.67

peter.buelens@palmbreweries.com

RODENBACH ROSSO the innovation for Summer 2014!

posted 23-04-14

After months of research and development, the brewers at Brouwerij Rodenbach are proud to present their latest creation: RODENBACH ROSSO. RODENBACH ROSSO is an authentic, sweet and sour, refreshing beer. RODENBACH ROSSO is brewed from two-year-old Rodenbach beer - matured in oak casks - blended with young RODENBACH, following which the brew is partially macerated with cranberries, raspberries and sour cherries, before the natural juices of these red berries are added. RODENBACH ROSSO's unique fresh-fruit taste mainly comes from the carefully selected cocktail of fruits and the beer matured in wooden casks. RODENBACH ROSSO, with its modern red design, is served in an original glass, circular at the top and oval at the base.

Brand Manager for Brouwerij Rodenbach, Michaël Cordie: "In creating RODENBACH ROSSO, we aimed for a fine balance between the freshness of RODENBACH oak-aged sour ale and the dashes of fruit from the red berries. After many internal tastings, we found the right balance. External tastings also confirmed that our brewers had managed to pull it off."

Brew master Rudi Ghequire describes the beer: "This mixed-fermentation fruit beer is fresh, fruity and very refreshing, with a slightly dry aftertaste, the colour of a young Burgundy wine and a low alcohol content. This makes the beer very refreshing, differentiating our creation from many other fruit beers on the market."

Michaël Cordie: "With RODENBACH ROSSO, we are launching a pure, high-quality fruit beer that's accessible, based on and with total respect for the authenticity and values of RODENBACH."

For product photos visit http://www.palmimagebank.com/2-rodenbach/

RODENBACH Caractère Rouge

posted 17-05-13

Thanks to his astute, unique tasting skills and his exceptional creativity, Viki Geunes has been contributing to product innovation and development at Brouwerij Rodenbach since 2011. That year, Viki and the brewers from Rodenbach developed a first test-brew of RODENBACH Caractère Rouge. In 2012, an exclusive Limited Edition was launched.

Our brewers and cellar masters, together with Viki Geunes, put their all into bottling RODENBACH Caractère Rouge in time for this year\'s summer. The brewers allow the RODENBACH beer, which traditionally matures for two years in large oak casks, to macerate for six more months with fresh cherries, raspberries and cranberries. The result is RODENBACH Caractère Rouge, an exceptional RODENBACH with fruit maceration and a 7% alcohol volume. This beer is more than unique and extremely exclusive, given that only 56,000 cork-sealed 75 cl bottles have been produced. Of this total, 20,000 bottles will be exported abroad, and America in particular is a very attractive market for the brewery! At ?t Zilte, Geunes combines this feisty beer with his sophisticated gastronomic creations.

RODENBACH Caractère Rouge: a complex, rich and refined beer

Viki Geunes is clearly enthusiastic about RODENBACH Caractère Rouge: \"Together with the brewers from RODENBACH and my own sommeliers, we experimented a great deal to arrive at the perfect blend. We can be proud of the result. Just like in my cuisine, I was striving for depth and complexity and that\'s just what RODENBACH Caractère Rouge represents!\"
Master brewer Rudi Ghequire explains further: \"RODENBACH Caractère Rouge, with an alcohol volume of 7%, is created by adding an extra six months\' fermenting maceration with fresh fruit ? cherries, raspberries and cranberries ? to beer that has already been maturing for two years in oak casks.\" \"A regal, almost wine-like, beer, with a highly complex fruity nose of raspberry and cherry combined with woody notes and caramel. There is an undertone of violets, leather and a hint of tobacco. This fruit beer tastes rather sour at first, but then incredibly pure.\"
Geunes adds: \"The slight residual sweetness balances out the taste combination of sour, sweet and dry. This dryness is mainly due to the cranberries, which give the beer a particularly long and pure aftertaste. The beer is reminiscent of the unique combination of delicacy and strength of a crisp Burgundy wine.\"

PALM Hop Select, made with our very own \'Steenhuffel\' hops: the PALM brewers\' new pride and joy.

posted 15-03-13

In October 2011, Brouwerij PALM planted 800 \'Hallertau Mittelfrüh\' hop plants in our very own hop garden. On 5 September 2012, the first harvest took place. Picking started at the crack of dawn and by noon the hops had been sent off to Poperinge for processing. With these home-grown and home-picked hops the PALM brewers created PALM Hop Select, a complex yet balanced connoisseurs\' beer with an alcohol content of 6% vol./alc.

With spring on its way, the Brouwerij PALM brewers are proud to present their new masterpiece, made with their very own hops! To create PALM Hop Select, our brewers certainly didn\'t rush things. This beautifully balanced connoisseurs\' beer goes through three phases of hopping. Traditionally, the brewers add a first lot of hops to the vat in the brewing room. It is during this phase that the characteristic bitterness is formed. In the second phase, the Hallertau Mittelfrüh comes into play, a variety with a very fine, hoppy and light green aroma. This hop is added at the end of the boiling process. Brewers call this phase \'late hopping\'. To add the finishing touch, the beer undergoes one last hopping at the end of the main fermentation stage. It is during this phase, called \'dry hopping\', that the home-grown and home-picked Hallertau Mittelfrüh is used.

PALM Hop Select is a complex yet balanced connoisseurs\' beer with an alcohol content of 6% vol./alc. Speciale Belge Ale served as a basis for its malt composition and choice of yeast. This is where the beer gets its subtle touch of caramel, mellowness and fruitiness from. For an optimal hoppy character and extra sparkle, our brewers have chosen to re-ferment the beer in the bottle. The ample amounts of hops and re-fermentation create a beer with a good drinkability, excellent digestibility, a magnificent head and, on top of all this, an excellent shelf-life.

To celebrate the birth of their new pride and joy, Brewery PALM is giving away 1,000 crates of PALM Hop Select, starting April 1st at www.palmhopselect.be.

Copyright-free product photos available for download via: www.palmimagebank.com

RODENBACH Vintage 2010 Limited Edition

posted 05-09-12

Brewery RODENBACH is marketing RODENBACH Vintage 2010 Limited Edition in September.

This RODENBACH Vintage 2010, with a 7% alcohol volume, is the unique result of the creativity of the passionate RODENBACH brewers. This exceptional Flemish red-brown beer of mixed fermentation owes its unique character to maturation in hand-made oak casks, some of which are more than 150 years old. \"This exclusive RODENBACH Vintage 2010 matured in cask number 144 for more than two years, resulting in a superior RODENBACH with a copper glow. Its taste is complex and rounded, intense and refreshing all at the same time. It is characterised by an acidic, appley fruitfulness combined with caramel, wild honey and oak with a touch of vanilla, cherry and liquorice,\" says Peter Buelens, spokesperson for RODENBACH. \"The aroma consists of touches of caramel and oak as well as green apples mixed with honey and chocolate. The slightly sour, fruity aftertaste is long and nicely balanced.\" A total of 48,000 75 cl bottles with corks have been produced, 40% of which are to be exported to the USA.

RODENBACH Vintage 2007 was awarded a silver medal at the World Beer Cup 2010.

End of press release / Product photos at: www.rodenbach.com

RODENBACH beers:
RODENBACH is a blend of ¾ young beer and ¼ beer matured in oak for two years.

RODENBACH Grand Cru is a blend of \" young beer and \" beer matured in oak for two years.

RODENBACH Vintage is matured for two years in a specially selected cask or \"foeder\".

RODENBACH Caractère Rouge is matured for two years in oak casks and macerated with fruit for six months.

RODENBACH was recognised as a traditional Flemish regional product and has since carried the VLAM label: Vlaams streekproduct.be. The application procedure for a European \"PDO\" (Protected Designation of Origin) label was submitted for the Flemish Red Brown Sour Ales this year.

The independent Belgian family brewery group, PALM Breweries, has a total production capacity of 1 million hl and a consolidated turnover of 60 million euros. PALM Breweries occupies a unique position in the beer sector as it is the only brewery group in the world brewing authentic Belgian beers using four traditional fermentation methods:

Top - mixed - spontaneous - bottom fermentation at three specialist historical sites in Belgium:

PALM Breweries site in Steenhuffel: 90% top fermentation/10% bottom fermentation

RODENBACH Brewery site in Roeselare: 100% mixed fermentation

BOON Brewery site in Lembeek (50/50 JV): 100% spontaneous fermentation

It was originally a brewer of Brabant top fermentation beers under the PALM (PALM, Dobbel PALM, PALM Royale, PALM N.A and PALM Sauvin) brand and is therefore the clear market leader in the Benelux amber beers sector. In 1998, the Group\'s enthusiasm for Belgium\'s beer heritage led to its acquisition of RODENBACH Brewery, which is well-known for its mixed fermentation Flemish Red Brown Sour Ales (RODENBACH, RODENBACH Grand Cru, RODENBACH Vintage, RODENBACH Caractère Rouge) and its unique fermentation rooms, where the beers are left to mature for two years in oak casks.

The acquisition of the De Gouden Boom brewery in Bruges in 2001 expanded the range of top fermentation beers in the connoisseur beers sector with Brugge Tripel and the Steenbrugge abbey beers (White - Dubbel Bruin - Abdijbock - Blond and Tripel).

It regards the 50/50 joint venture with geuze brewer Frank Boon as a cultural project to preserve the genuine geuzelambic spontaneous fermentation tradition in which the beer, including the fruit varieties, is left to mature for a long time in oak casks.

Until recently, PALM Breweries fully focused its exports on the Netherlands, where PALM is the most popular speciality beer by some distance, with 50 million sold a year.

Exporting outside the Benelux countries is the new direction for growth of PALM Breweries. The rich portfolio of PALM Breweries, based on unique Belgian traditions, innovation and know-how, is an asset for further growth in all domestic markets.

On 8 November 2007, PALM Breweries received an award from the \"Institute for Family Businesses\"? for \"Best professionally run family business of 2007\" and on 12 October 2011, the \"Sustainable Management Award\" at the Trends Business Tour 2011.

Passion for authentic Belgian beers: As Belgian family brewers of craft beers, we build lasting relationships with consumers looking for the unique taste and brand experience of Authentic Beers, brewed with passion at historic breweries each specialising in one of the four traditional fermentation methods.

Viki Geunes from \'t Zilte and RODENBACH Brewery present their joint creation, RODENBACH Caractère Rouge.

posted 18-06-12

Because of his astute, unique tasting skills and his exceptional creativity, PALM Breweries asked Viki Geunes to cooperate in its product innovation and development. In 2011, Viki and the brewers from RODENBACH developed a first test brew of RODENBACH Caractère Rouge. The 900 75 cl bottles with corks met with a highly enthusiastic reception. This exclusive Limited Edition is now being marketed in 2012! The brewers allow the RODENBACH beer, which traditionally matures for two years in large oak casks, to macerate for six months with fresh cherries, raspberries and cranberries. The result is RODENBACH Caractère Rouge, an exceptional RODENBACH with fruit maceration and a 7% alcohol volume. The fine beer is more than unique and extremely exclusive, as only 10,000 75 cl bottles have been produced. In \'t Zilte restaurant, Geunes combines this feisty beer with his sophisticated gastronomic creations.

RODENBACH Caractère Rouge: complex, richly faceted beer

Viki Geunes is clearly enthusiastic about the RODENBACH Caractère Rouge: \"Together with the brewers from RODENBACH and my own sommeliers, we experimented a great deal to arrive at the perfect blend. We can be proud of the result. As in my cuisine, I strove for depth and complexity and that\'s just what RODENBACH Caractère Rouge represents!\"
Master brewer Rudi Ghequire explains further: \"RODENBACH Caractère Rouge, with an alcohol volume of 7%, is created by six months\' fermenting maceration with fresh fruit ? cherries, raspberries and cranberries ? on beer that has already matured for two years in oak casks.\"
Passionate brewer Jan Toye describes the beer as: \"Wine-like, with a highly complex fruity nose of raspberry and cherry combined with woody notes and caramel. There is an undertone of violets, leather and a hint of tobacco. The fruit beer tastes rather sour at first, but then very pure.\"
Geunes adds: \"The slight residual sweetness balances out the taste triangle of sour, sweet and dry. This dryness is mainly due to the cranberries, which give the beer a particularly long and pure aftertaste. The beer is reminiscent of the unique combination of delicacy and strength of new burgundy wine.\"

End of press release / Product photos at: www.rodenbach.com

RODENBACH beers:

RODENBACH is a blend of ¾ young beer and ¼ beer matured in oak for two years.
RODENBACH Grand Cru is a blend of ? young beer and ? beer matured in oak for two years.
RODENBACH Vintage is matured for two years in a specially selected cask or \"foeder\".
RODENBACH Caractère Rouge is matured for two years in oak casks and macerated with fruit for six months.

RODENBACH was recognised as a traditional Flemish regional product and has since carried the VLAM label: Vlaams streekproduct.be
The application procedure for a European \"PDO\" (Protected Designation of Origin) label was submitted for the Flemish Red Brown Sour Ales this year.

PALM Breweries NV
Peter Buelens, Public Relations Manager
Steenhuffeldorp 3 - B-1840 Steenhuffel
T 052 31 74 67 F 052 31 23 44
peter.buelens@palmbreweries.com

Background information about PALM Breweries: Belgian - Unique - Independent

The independent Belgian family brewery group, PALM Breweries, has a total production capacity of 1 million hl and a consolidated turnover of 60 million euros. PALM Breweries occupies a unique position in the beer sector as it is the only brewery group in the world brewing authentic Belgian beers using four traditional fermentation methods:

Top - mixed - spontaneous - bottom fermentation at three specialist historical sites in Belgium:
PALM Breweries site in Steenhuffel: 90% top fermentation/10% bottom fermentation
RODENBACH Brewery site in Roeselare: 100% mixed fermentation
BOON Brewery site in Lembeek (50/50 JV): 100% spontaneous fermentation

It was originally a brewer of Brabant top fermentation beers under the PALM (PALM, Dobbel PALM, PALM Royale, PALM N.A and PALM Sauvin) brand and is therefore the clear market leader in the Benelux amber beers sector. In 1998, the Group\'s enthusiasm for Belgium\'s beer heritage led to its acquisition of RODENBACH Brewery, which is well-known for its mixed fermentation Flemish Red Brown Sour Ales (RODENBACH, RODENBACH Grand Cru, RODENBACH Vintage) and its unique fermentation rooms, where the beers are left to mature for two years in oak casks.

The acquisition of the De Gouden Boom brewery in Bruges in 2001 expanded the range of top fermentation beers in the connoisseur beers sector with Brugge Tripel and the Steenbrugge abbey beers (White - Dubbel Bruin - Abdijbock - Blond and Tripel).

It regards the 50/50 joint venture with geuze brewer Frank Boon as a cultural project to preserve the genuine geuze-lambic spontaneous fermentation tradition in which the beer, including the fruit varieties, is left to mature for a long time in oak casks.
Until recently, PALM Breweries fully focused its exports on the Netherlands, where PALM is the most popular speciality beer by some distance, with 50 million sold a year.
Exporting outside the Benelux countries is the new direction for growth of PALM Breweries. The rich portfolio of PALM Breweries, based on unique Belgian traditions, innovation and know-how, is an asset for further growth in all domestic markets.
On 8 November 2007, PALM Breweries received an award from the \"Institute for Family Businesses\" for \"Best professionally run family business of 2007\" and on 12 October 2011, the \"Sustainable Management Award\" at the Trends Business Tour 2011.
Passion for authentic Belgian beers: As Belgian family brewers of craft beers, we build lasting relationships with consumers looking for the unique taste and brand experience of Authentic Beers, brewed with passion at historic breweries each specialising in one of the four traditional fermentation methods.

PALM innovates with the launch of PALM Hopper Limited Edition and the creation of its own hop field.

posted 24-10-11

PALM innovates with the launch of PALM Hopper Limited Edition
and the creation of its own hop field

Over the past five years PALM Breweries has developed its two-product strategy with PALM & RODENBACH into a multi-niche strategy. This resulted in a number of new beers, many as line extensions and some under a new brand. For the next five years PALM Breweries again has ambitious plans.
The creation of its own hop field is one example. The Hallertau Mittelfrüh hops that are planted will, in time, meet the brewery\'s own hops demand. It has already inspired the brewers to make the first new seasonal, the PALM Hopper, which is being tested as a Limited Edition this year.
As part of the planned multi-niche strategy, the strategic partnership with Viki Geunes, Patron Cuisinier of restaurant \'t Zilte (**) at the MAS museum in Antwerp, resulted in the creation of the RODENBACH Caractère Rouge. More product innovation and product development projects have been planned, for example in the area of Beer & Food Pairing.


Hop is hip, not just hype!

As a brewer of thoroughbred beers, PALM Breweries is very pleased with the renewed interest in hops and bitterness in beers. Hops and beer are inextricably linked: hops are one of the four ingredients of beer and with a few exceptions, beer is the only product in which they are used. Over the past decades beer has become less bitter year after year due to an increased demand in highly sweetened drinks. In the 60s and 70s Belgian beers easily showed 30 bitterness units, but now the global average of alpha acids per hectolitre is 4 to 5 grams, so that the bitterness of some beers hardly reaches the taste threshold. This also happened in the US, where the big American beer brands reduced bitterness to extremely low levels. However, this phenomenon also contributed to the success of craft beers in the United States. Some of their highly hopped beers have a bitterness ranging from 50 to above 100! These US brewers can take the credit for drawing attention to hops again, also in Europe: the dosage of the hops, the use of different aroma varieties and the time of introducing it to the brewing process are all considered important. Brewers of special beers can use the wide range of hop varieties as a magnificent instrument to play with flavour. Hops are to beer what grape varieties are to wine. Hops are traditionally categorised in various bitter types and aroma varieties. Their aroma is described as citrus, floral, green, spicy and hoppy.


PALM\'s own hop field

The idea of an own hop field is not new. Owner Jan Toye dreamt about it for years! In the current beer brewing climate it seems obvious: the renewed appreciation of hops, the innovation projects at PALM Breweries, the traditional brewers\' roots and last but not least, the proximity of the historic hops area of Aalst and Asse.
Until the late 1800s, Aalst was truly the world\'s hops barn. During those golden years, more than 95% of the population in and around Aalst worked in hop growing. The \"Groene Bel\" (Green Cone) variety was picked cone by cone and was declared the best in the world at the world fair in Paris. Today you can count the number of hops farmers in the region on one hand. Here and there a few fields are being reinstated with joint subsidies from the local authorities, the regions and Europe. However, the objective is to remind the population of the rich history of this extremely beautiful crop: these hops are not used for brewing.

The PALM hop field covers 3,500 m² and contain about 800 hop plants of the Hallertau Mittelfrüh variety. Alfons and Paul Temmerman, who are renowned hops farmers from Erembodegem, helped PALM to make a good start. The field was laid out by Jan Vermeir from Opwijk. The team of nearby Diepensteyn Stud Farm was involved in the creation of the field right from the beginning and is responsible for growing the hops in the coming years. The brewery uses the services of Geert Claerbout, a hop grower and processor in the Poperingen region, to pick and process the hops.

PALM Hopper Limited Edition brewed with Hallertau Mittelfrüh

Hallertau Mittelfrüh is a very popular variety with a very fine, hoppy and light green aroma. Because of its susceptibility to disease, the variety had long been forgotten, but the technology of virus-free plants has now sparked a true comeback for this variety. It inspired the brewers to a first creation: the PALM \"Hopper\". Because the brewers were so pleasantly surprised by the aroma, they added the hops three times during the brewing process: a first time at the start of the boiling process, a second \'late hopping\' at the end of the boiling process and a final time as \'dry hopping\' at the end of the main fermentation. PALM, the Special Belge par excellence, served as a basis for the malt composition and choice of yeast. It gives the beer its touch of caramel and fruitiness. The PALM Hopper is a complex but balanced connoisseurs\' beer with a 6% alcohol volume. In order to ensure that optimal hoppy character and extra sparkle, our brewers chose to re-ferment the beer in the bottle. The rich amounts of hops ensure good drinkability, excellent digestion and a magnificent head. Seven thousand corked 37.5 cl bottles of PALM Hopper Limited Edition have been made.


Dobbel PALM since 1947

According to a time-honoured tradition that started in 1947, the brewers put their best foot forward for the holiday season. They increase the PALM ingredients. Dobbel Palm has more of all the goodness of PALM: more caramel flavours, more honey-like mellowness from the unique amber-coloured malts and more banana fruitiness. Dobbel PALM is a Special Belge type, top fermentation amber beer with an even more pronounced malty and hoppy character than PALM. With a 6% alcohol volume, Dobbel PALM is the ideal connoisseurs\' beer to enjoy on cold evenings.


Viki Geunes advises passionate brewer

Because of his astute, unique tasting skills and his exceptional creativity, PALM Breweries asked Patron Cuisinier Viki Geunes of Restaurant \'t Zilte (**) to contribute to PALM Breweries\' product innovation and development. The first test project co-developed by Viki Geunes is a variation of RODENBACH beer, which traditionally matures in 150-year-old, large oak casks for two years. The chef allows the beer to macerate with fresh cherries, raspberries and cranberries for six months. After this six-month maceration in oak, the beer then re-ferments in the bottle. The result is Rodenbach Caractère Rouge, an exceptional Rodenbach with fruit maceration and a 7% alcohol volume. One thousand 75 cl bottles were produced in a first edition, some of which Viki Geunes will incorporate in new dishes. He will be serving this wilful beer as part of his unique restaurant range of beer varieties.

Same values

\"When I was asked to provide taste creation support for certain new PALM Breweries beer projects, I didn\'t hesitate for a moment,\" Viki Geunes says about his commitment. \"This brewery\'s beers have an authentic, clean taste and are brewed with respect for the authentic brewing traditions. After our first meeting I understood that the brewery is driven by passion and expertise and wants to innovate with new beer types and varieties. The brewery focuses on its own identity rather than mass production, which shows its interest in terroir and local character. Just like the art of brewing, sustainability principles are part of the family\'s heritage. All these values are also extremely important in my restaurant approach. You can only contribute to such a project if your vision of taste creation has the same foundation.\"

End of press release

Brewery RODENBACH is treating beer lovers to two Limited Editions: RODENBACH Caractère Rouge and RODENBACH Vintage 2009

posted 21-09-11

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE PUBLICATION
Roeselare, 19 September 2011


Brouwerij RODENBACH is treating beer lovers to two Limited Editions:
RODENBACH Caractère Rouge and RODENBACH Vintage 2009

In addition to the RODENBACH VINTAGE, which was introduced for the third time already this year, the Roeselare-based brewery also developed 900 unique bottles of RODENBACH Caractère Rouge in cooperation with top chef Viki Geunes. Because of his astute, unique tasting skills and his exceptional creativity, PALM Breweries asked Viki Geunes to cooperate in its product innovation and development.

RODENBACH Caractère Rouge: complex, richly faceted beer

A first test project, co-developed by Viki Geunes, is a variation of RODENBACH beer, which traditionally matures for two years in large oak casks. The brewers allow the beer to macerate with fresh cherries, raspberries and cranberries. After this maceration in oak, the beer re-ferments in the bottle. The result is RODENBACH Caractère Rouge, an exceptional RODENBACH with fruit maceration and a 7% alcohol volume. The brew is more than unique and extremely exclusive, as only 900 75-cl bottles were produced. Geunes serves this wilful beer as part of his other unique range of beer varieties in his restaurant, \'t Zilte, at the Antwerp MAS museum.

Viki Geunes is clearly enthusiastic about the RODENBACH Caractère Rouge: \"I learnt a lot from RODENBACH brewery owner Jan Toye and brewer Rudi Ghequire. Apparently Rudi was satisfied with my suggestions on flavour. Together we can be proud of the results. Like in my kitchen, I strived towards depth and complexity. RODENBACH Caractère Rouge has a subtle fruity scent of raspberry and cherry combined with wood notes and caramel. Underneath is a fragrance of violets with hints of leather and light tobacco. It is a beer with a vinous aroma. At first its palette tastes of tingling, crisp acids. This initial flavour is quickly countered by a pleasant residual sweetness and delicate dryness from the cranberries, which also give the beer a long, sweet and therefore particularly pleasant aftertaste. The three fruits that were used clearly did not fail to achieve their desired effect. When I taste this RODENBACH, it reminds me of a fresh burgundy wine. Of course that has a lot to do with the delicate, hugely expressive fruit and wood fermentation.\"

RODENBACH Vintage 2009 - Limited Edition

RODENBACH is marketing RODENBACH Vintage 2009 Limited Edition in September. This RODENBACH Vintage 2009, with a 7% alcohol volume, is the unique result of the creativity of the passionate RODENBACH brewers. This exceptional FLEMISH RED BROWN beer of mixed fermentation owes its unique character to maturation in hand-made oak casks, some of which are more than 150 years old.

\"This exclusive RODENBACH Vintage 2009 matured in cask number 145 for more than two years, resulting in a superior RODENBACH with a copper glow. Its taste is complex, full, punchy and refreshing all at the same time. It has a characteristic apple-sour fruitiness combined with caramel, wild honey and oak,\" according to Peter Buelens, Public Relations Manager at RODENBACH. \"The aroma consists of touches of caramel and green apples mixed with oak. The soft-sour, fruity aftertaste is long and nicely balanced.\"

A total of 37,000 75-cl bottles with corks were produced, a quarter of which has been exported to the USA. RODENBACH Vintage 2007 was awarded a silver medal at the World Beer Cup 2010.

Brouwerij RODENBACH is treating beer lovers to two Limited Editions:

posted 21-09-11

RODENBACH Caractère Rouge and RODENBACH Vintage 2009

In addition to the RODENBACH VINTAGE, which was introduced for the third time already this year, the Roeselare-based brewery also developed 900 unique bottles of RODENBACH Caractère Rouge in cooperation with top chef Viki Geunes. Because of his astute, unique tasting skills and his exceptional creativity, PALM Breweries asked Viki Geunes to cooperate in its product innovation and development.

RODENBACH Caractère Rouge: complex, richly faceted beer

A first test project, co-developed by Viki Geunes, is a variation of RODENBACH beer, which traditionally matures for two years in large oak casks. The brewers allow the beer to macerate with fresh cherries, raspberries and cranberries. After this maceration in oak, the beer re-ferments in the bottle. The result is RODENBACH Caractère Rouge, an exceptional RODENBACH with fruit maceration and a 7% alcohol volume. The brew is more than unique and extremely exclusive, as only 900 75-cl bottles were produced. Geunes serves this wilful beer as part of his other unique range of beer varieties in his restaurant, \'t Zilte, at the Antwerp MAS museum. 

Viki Geunes is clearly enthusiastic about the RODENBACH Caractère Rouge: \"I learnt a lot from RODENBACH brewery owner Jan Toye and brewer Rudi Ghequire. Apparently Rudi was satisfied with my suggestions on flavour. Together we can be proud of the results. Like in my kitchen, I strived towards depth and complexity. RODENBACH Caractère Rouge has a subtle fruity scent of raspberry and cherry combined with wood notes and caramel. Underneath is a fragrance of violets with hints of leather and light tobacco. It is a beer with a vinous aroma. At first its palette tastes of tingling, crisp acids. This initial flavour is quickly countered by a pleasant residual sweetness and delicate dryness from the cranberries, which also give the beer a long, sweet and therefore particularly pleasant aftertaste. The three fruits that were used clearly did not fail to achieve their desired effect. When I taste this RODENBACH, it reminds me of a fresh burgundy wine. Of course that has a lot to do with the delicate, hugely expressive fruit and wood fermentation.\"

RODENBACH Vintage 2009 - Limited Edition

RODENBACH is marketing RODENBACH Vintage 2009 Limited Edition in September. This RODENBACH Vintage 2009, with a 7% alcohol volume, is the unique result of the creativity of the passionate RODENBACH brewers. This exceptional FLEMISH RED BROWN beer of mixed fermentation owes its unique character to maturation in hand-made oak casks, some of which are more than 150 years old.

\"This exclusive RODENBACH Vintage 2009 matured in cask number 145 for more than two years, resulting in a superior RODENBACH with a copper glow. Its taste is complex, full, punchy and refreshing all at the same time. It has a characteristic apple-sour fruitiness combined with caramel, wild honey and oak,\" according to Peter Buelens, Public Relations Manager at RODENBACH. \"The aroma consists of touches of caramel and green apples mixed with oak. The soft-sour, fruity aftertaste is long and nicely balanced.\"

A total of 37,000 75-cl bottles with corks were produced, a quarter of which has been exported to the USA. RODENBACH Vintage 2007 was awarded a silver medal at the World Beer Cup 2010.

RODENBACH applies for European recognition

posted 29-04-11

RODENBACH applies for European recognition
In 2005, RODENBACH and RODENBACH Grand Cru were accredited as Flemish local products. Now RODENBACH, together with the renowned brewers of Flanders red-brown beer (RODENBACH ? VERHAEGE ? BAVIK ? BOCKOR), has also decided to apply for European recognition (PGI ? protected geographical indication). The European application was officially submitted on 29 April, in the presence of Minister-President Kris Peeters, at the RODENBACH brewery. Just submitting such a European application is quite a feat. At the instigation of Jan Toye, managing director of Palm Breweries and owner of Brouwerij Rodenbach, a producers\' meeting was arranged and the European application for Flanders red-brown beer was prepared. VLAM-Steunpunt Streekproducten (Flanders Agricultural Marketing Board Local Products\' Department) helped the brewers put together this European application. The Belgian Department of Agriculture and Fisheries is handling the application at national level, leading up to its submission to the European authorities by Peeters\' cabinet.

PROTECTED GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION ? PGI
The great advantage of a European label is that it offers the producer recognition and protection. The protection means that the producer acquires an intellectual property right over his product. Recognition also has commercial advantages. Even the consumer benefits from European protected products. They offer a guarantee of quality and origin.

FLANDERS RED-BROWN BEER
Flanders red-brown beer is eligible for this European label of Protected Geographical Indication (PGI). Flanders red-brown beers are mixed fermentation beers that mature in upright oak casks, called \"foeders\". The use of coloured barley malts gives them a red-brown colour. \"Mixed\" main fermentation and maturation for 2 years in oak casks give them the same sweet-sour flavour and complex fruitiness as wine.

RODENBACH undergoes two stages of fermentation before it acquires its sweet-sour flavour. The first stage of fermentation is unique because top-fermentation yeasts cohabit with lactic flora: so-called mixed fermentation. RODENBACH only acquires its fruity bouquet, which is unmatched by any other beer, after maturation in oak casks. The casks are crucial to the process. Each cask is made by the brewery\'s cooper using exactly the same method employed since 1821. No wonder the selection of the wood is taken just as seriously as any other task involved in the brewing process. Only the finest wood without knots or gnarls is used. No nails or screws are used. To make the barrel watertight (or should that be beer-tight), the cooper stuffs reeds in-between the staves. Only the riveted iron cask rings hold the cask together.

RODENBACH ? RODENBACH GRAND CRU ? RODENBACH VINTAGE
RODENBACH (Alc. 5.2% Vol.) is a blend of ¾ young beer and ¼ beer matured for two years in oak. Michael Jackson, the international authority on beer, awarded RODENBACH the title of ?the most refreshing beer in the world?.
RODENBACH Grand Cru (Alc. 6% Vol.) is a blend of ? young beer and ? beer matured for two years in oak. The higher proportion of older, oak-matured beer contributes to the complex, intense fruitiness with a very long aftertaste just like a Grand Cru wine.
RODENBACH Vintage (Alc. 7% Vol.) is the unique result of the creativity of the passionate RODENBACH brewers. This exclusive RODENBACH Vintage is matured for two years in a specially selected cask or \"foeder\". This results in a superior RODENBACH Grand Cru with a sweet-sour taste and complex, intense fruitiness with a very long aftertaste just like a Grand Cru wine. It is only bottled in 75 cl bottles with corks.

With this new application, VLAM-Steunpunt Streekproducten hopes to further highlight the importance of our Flemish gastronomic heritage. The wide variety of traditional local beers remain little known and under-appreciated.

ESTAMINET PREMIUM PILS wins a gold medal at the Brewing Industry International Awards 2011

posted 23-02-11

Steenhuffel (B), 23 February 2011


ESTAMINET PREMIUM PILS wins a gold medal at
the Brewing Industry International Awards 2011


This year, 796 beers were entered for the Brewing Industry International Awards 2011, which were held in England. A renowned jury, consisting of experts from the brewing world, awarded ESTAMINET Premium Pils the highest score in the \'Lager\' category. This gold medal, which is seen as an \'Oscar\' within the beer world, is an important recognition and victory for PALM Breweries. The awards and medals will be presented during a gala event on 12 April at the prestigious Guildhall in London.
ESTAMINET owes its premium quality (5.2% vol/alc) to the selection of the best natural ingredients: soft water, 100% high quality summer barley, a distinctive yeast and very precious Saaz hops. Slow, traditional bottom fermentation, a brewing process based on an original recipe and maturation for a full six weeks make ESTAMINET a true Belgian Premium Pils.

DOBBEL PALM 2010

posted 16-11-10

Steenhuffel (B), 16 November 2010


DOBBEL PALM, the classic festive beer since 1947, on sale now


PALM Breweries prides itself on offering the special beer Dobbel PALM during the festive season!
Master brewer Alfred Van Roy launched Dobbel PALM in 1947 as a festive beer to celebrate the brewery?s bicentenary. \"He offered it at no extra charge as part of the festive spirit. The beer was so successful that he continued to sell it during the festive period in other years. His successor, Jan Toye, continues this fine tradition\", says Peter Buelens, PR Manager for PALM Breweries. Besides the classic bottles and casks, the popular festive beer Dobbel PALM to which every beer lover looks forward is now also available in 1.5 litre magnums!
\"Dobbel PALM is an amber, top-fermentation Speciale Belge beer with an even more pronounced malty and hoppy character than PALM. With an alcohol volume of 6.0%, Dobbel PALM is the ideal connoisseurs\' beer for the festive season\", says Buelens.

PALM AMBER COLOURED MALTS: Unique amber coloured malts determine the basic flavour of Dobbel PALM: mild caramel flavours with a honey-like mellowness. The malting process adheres to PALM?s specific instructions which are aimed at a natural brown colouring that delivers its specific flavour. Malts used for brewing Dobbel PALM will have undergone a deeper brown colouring.
PALM YEASTS: The aroma is determined to a significant extent by yeast. Through intensive selection, PALM Breweries have amassed a lavish collection of the various yeast strains, each of which gives the beer its own fruity character. PALM is fermented with a symbiosis of three different yeast strains which provide an emphatic banana fruitiness.

End of press release


Download product shots for Dobbel PALM from www.palmbreweries.com > PROFESSIONAL > Photos and Logos > Dobbel PALM