Brasserie de Saint-Sylvestre

Brasserie de Saint-Sylvestre is a renowned brewery located in Saint-Sylvestre-Cappel, in the Nord department of France. Established in 1860, it has a long history of brewing traditional French and Flemish beers. The brewery is best known for its range of beers that include the famous "Trois Monts", a classic example of the French Bière de Garde style, as well as other notable beers such as "Gavroche", "Bière Nouvelle", and "Cuvée de Noël".

History

The origins of Brasserie de Saint-Sylvestre trace back to 1860, when it was founded in the small town of Saint-Sylvestre-Cappel. Over the years, the brewery has maintained its traditional brewing methods while also incorporating modern techniques to enhance the quality and flavor of its beers. The brewery has remained a family-owned business, passing through generations, which has helped preserve its unique brewing traditions and recipes.

Beers

Brasserie de Saint-Sylvestre produces a variety of beers, each with its own unique character and taste profile. The most notable include:

• Trois Monts: A golden ale with a delicate balance of sweetness and bitterness, embodying the classic Bière de Garde style.
• Gavroche: A red ale that combines the richness of malt with the bitterness of hops, named after the character from Victor Hugo's novel, Les Misérables.
• Bière Nouvelle: A seasonal beer that is brewed annually to celebrate the new brewing season.
• Cuvée de Noël: A traditional Christmas beer, rich in flavors and spices, perfect for the festive season.

Brewing Process

The brewing process at Brasserie de Saint-Sylvestre combines traditional methods with modern brewing technology. The brewery emphasizes the use of high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, including malt, hops, and yeast. Fermentation takes place in traditional open vats, which allows for the development of complex flavors and aromas. The beers are then aged in the brewery's cellars to reach their optimal taste profile before being bottled and distributed.

Cultural Significance

Brasserie de Saint-Sylvestre is not only known for its exceptional beers but also for its contribution to the cultural heritage of the Nord region. The brewery is a symbol of the region's rich brewing history and is a destination for beer enthusiasts from around the world. It participates in various beer festivals and events, promoting the tradition of French and Flemish brewing.

Visiting the Brewery

The brewery offers tours for visitors interested in learning more about its history, brewing process, and beer range. These tours provide an opportunity to explore the brewery's facilities, from the brewing vats to the aging cellars, and conclude with a tasting session of its beers.

Conclusion

Brasserie de Saint-Sylvestre stands as a testament to the rich brewing tradition of the Nord region of France. With its commitment to quality and tradition, it continues to produce beers that are celebrated both locally and internationally. The brewery's dedication to its craft ensures that the legacy of French and Flemish brewing will be preserved for future generations.