Cantillon (brewery)

Cantillon

Cantillon Brewery is a Belgian brewery based in Brussels, known for its production of traditional lambic beers. Founded in 1900 by Paul Cantillon, the brewery has remained a family-owned business, currently operated by the fourth generation of the Cantillon family.

History

Cantillon Brewery was established in 1900 by Paul Cantillon, who came from a family of brewers. The brewery initially produced a variety of beers, but over time, it specialized in lambic beers, which are unique to the Pajottenland region and Brussels. The brewery has maintained traditional brewing methods, including spontaneous fermentation, which is a hallmark of lambic beers.

Brewing Process

The brewing process at Cantillon Brewery is distinctive due to its reliance on spontaneous fermentation. Unlike most modern breweries that use cultivated yeast strains, Cantillon allows wild yeast and bacteria from the environment to ferment the beer. This process gives Cantillon beers their unique, complex flavors.

The brewery uses a traditional coolship to cool the wort overnight, exposing it to the ambient air. The wort is then transferred to oak or chestnut barrels for fermentation and aging, which can last from one to three years. The blending of different aged lambics results in the creation of gueuze, a sparkling lambic beer.

Beers

Cantillon Brewery produces a variety of lambic beers, including:

• Gueuze
• Kriek
• Rosé de Gambrinus
• Fou' Foune
• Iris
• Vigneronne

Each of these beers is made using traditional methods and often incorporates local fruits, such as cherries for Kriek and raspberries for Rosé de Gambrinus.

Visitor Experience

Cantillon Brewery is open to the public for tours and tastings. Visitors can learn about the history of the brewery, the lambic brewing process, and sample a variety of Cantillon beers. The brewery also hosts events and participates in beer festivals, promoting the appreciation of traditional lambic beers.

Legacy and Influence

Cantillon Brewery is considered a pioneer in the preservation and promotion of traditional lambic brewing methods. It has inspired a renewed interest in lambic beers and has influenced many modern craft brewers around the world. The brewery's commitment to quality and tradition has earned it a dedicated following among beer enthusiasts.

See Also

• Lambic
• Gueuze
• Kriek
• Belgian beer
• List of breweries in Belgium