Abt 12: Legendary Beer With Over 70 Years of History

Abt 12 is an icon of Belgian brewing, a monument to creativity and quality. It is not just a product, but part of a Belgian beer heritage with a history of more than 70 years. Join us to discover what makes Abt 12 special, from its history to its unique brewing method, its flavor profile and how to enjoy it properly.

I. History of the brewery

The history of the Brouwerij St. Bernardus brewery, which produces Abt 12, is a profound chapter in the annals of Belgian brewing. Not only is it the home of one of the world's most beloved beers, it is also a symbol of the union of tradition and innovation.

Brouwerij St. Bernardus has its origins in the late 1940s, when Belgian businessman Evarist Deconinck began collaborating with the St. Sixtus Abbey. During this period, the St. Sixtus Abbey decided to stop supplying its beer to the general public and focus on brewing beer for the abbey community only. They granted Deconinck the rights to use their recipe and brand name, thus forming the basis for the later famous beers of Brouwerij St. Bernardus.

This collaboration ushered in a new era for the brewery. Initially, St. Bernardus beers were produced based on the recipes and techniques of the St. Sixtus monastery. However, over time, the brewery developed and perfected its own recipes, remaining true to tradition while also constantly innovating and creating.

Abt 12, which was born as part of this development, not only showed the brewery's respect for the Trappist tradition but also demonstrated its creativity and excellence in creating beers with complex and unique flavors. This beer quickly became one of the brewery's flagship products, loved not only in Belgium but also around the world.

The development of Brouwerij St. Bernardus and the creation of Abt 12 are testament to the constant evolution of the Belgian brewing art, where tradition and modernity blend to create premium beers.

II. The birth of Abt 12 beer

The birth of Abt 12 from the Brouwerij St. Bernardus brewery not only reflects the historical context of the Belgian beer industry but also represents the need for improvement and innovation in the brewing process. Abt 12, under the talented hands of the Brouwerij St. Bernardus brewers, has become a symbol not only of this brewery but also of the entire Belgian beer industry.

• Reflecting Market Demand: In the years after World War II, the demand for high-quality, complex-tasting beers grew. Trappist beers, with their long history and unique style, attracted widespread interest. Abt 12 was born as a response to this demand, aiming to create a beer with a distinctive flavour and high alcohol content, reflecting the depth and sophistication of the brewing art.
• Innovation in Trappist Beer Style: Although Abt 12 is not a Trappist beer in the traditional sense, it is heavily influenced by the style. The Brouwerij St. Bernardus brewery has used the experience and knowledge of the past to create Abt 12, a beer that reflects tradition but also innovation. This is not only in the taste but also in the way it is produced and the focus on quality.
• Development of Relations with the Monastery of St. Sixtus: The connection between Brouwerij St. Bernardus and the St. Sixtus monastery, where they used to brew trappist beer, laid a solid foundation for the development of Abt 12. Although they later separated and developed their own beer, Brouwerij St. Bernardus still maintained the spirit and style of trappist beer, which is clearly reflected in Abt 12.

Abt 12 from the Brouwerij St. Bernardus brewery is a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, a reinterpretation of a part of Belgian beer history and culture. It is not just a beer, but a symbol of creativity and passion for the art of brewing.

III. Characteristics and beer styles

The distinctive features of Abt 12 from Brouwerij St. Bernardus reflect the essence of Belgian brewing, especially the Belgian Quadrupel style. Here are the highlights of Abt 12, each of which contributes to its unique identity:

• Beer Color and Foam: Abt 12 has an attractive, deep brown colour, often showing a ruby red hue in the light. Its beer foam is smooth, thick and persistent, not only enhancing the aesthetics but also retaining the complex flavours of the beer for a longer time.
• Rich Fragrance: The aroma of Abt 12 is a combination of notes of dried fruits such as grapes, plums, caramel, and a little spice. You can feel the harmony between natural sweetness and light bitterness from hops, creating a unique and attractive flavor.
• Rich Flavor: On the palate, Abt 12 offers a richness of flavour, with malt sweetness balanced by a light hop bitterness. Notes of dried fruit, chocolate, and spices such as cinnamon or star anise add sophistication and depth to the beer.
• Alcohol Concentration and Structure: With an alcohol content of around 10%, Abt 12 is in the strong beer segment. However, the delicate balance in flavor keeps it from being too harsh or heavy, but instead a warm and harmonious experience.
• Belgian Quadrupel Style: Abt 12 is a Belgian Quadrupel style beer, a Belgian abbey beer with a high alcohol content and complex flavor. This beer is highly regarded for its rich, unique flavor and is the perfect choice for those seeking a deep and comprehensive beer experience.

Abt 12, with these characteristics, not only reflects the professional brewing technique and attention to quality of Brouwerij St. Bernardus, but is also a manifesto of perfection in the art of Belgian brewing.

IV. How to enjoy Abt 12 beer

To fully enjoy Abt 12, the beer should be served at room temperature or slightly chilled in a tulip or chalice glass. The beer pairs well with strongly flavored dishes such as red meat, hard cheeses, or even some pastries.

V. Awards and honors of Abt 12 beer