Chimay, the authentic Belgian Trappist beer

Renowned worldwide for its rich history and exceptional flavours, Chimay is an iconic Belgian Trappist beer proudly bearing the Authentic Trappist Product hexagonal logo, a guarantee of authenticity and tradition. Discover other Trappist beers on our blog, including Achel beer.

The origins of Chimay

The story of Chimay began in the summer of 1850, when Prince Joseph de Caraman-Chimay invited the monks of Saint-Sixte Abbey in Westvleteren to establish a new Cistercian abbey in Scourmont, a small Belgian hamlet south of Chimay. The monastery soon expanded to include a farm, a cheese dairy and a brewery. Beer production officially began in 1862. Like many breweries of the time, Chimay was deeply affected by the Second World War, during which brewing equipment was destroyed. After the war, the brewery was completely rebuilt, and in 1948 Father Théodore discovered the unique yeast strains that still define Chimay beers today.

In 1956, the monks released a special festive beer, now known as Chimay Bleue. Chimay Triple followed in 1966, cementing the brewery’s reputation for excellence.

Remarkable growth rooted in tradition

As Chimay’s success grew, bottling operations were moved to Baileux to preserve monastic life, reaching speeds of 40,000 bottles per hour. Since 2012, annual production has exceeded 170,000 hectolitres, with exports accounting for more than 50% of total sales. Despite this growth, Chimay remains firmly committed to ethical values, using 100% natural and protected ingredients and reinvesting all profits into social projects or the upkeep of the monastery, in accordance with Trappist rules.

The Chimay beer range

The Chimay range consists of five iconic Trappist beers, each with its own unique character.

Chimay Blue – Brown (Grande Réserve)

This brown beer has an ABV of 9% and can be cellared for up to 20 years. It displays a deep brown colour with a fine beige head and aromas of spices, caramel and dried fruit. Rich and full-bodied, it offers a delicate bitterness and pairs perfectly with Chimay cheese.

Chimay Bleue Vieillie en Barriques – Dark Strong Ale BA

A Dark Strong Ale aged in oak barrels, this exceptional beer reaches 10% ABV. Dark brown with red highlights and a fine beige head, it is unfiltered and unpasteurised, offering woody notes alongside caramel and dried fruit flavours.

Chimay Blanche – Tripel

This blonde Tripel reveals a golden colour and a generous white head. Aromas of hops, malt and yeast combine with spicy and malty flavours and a pronounced bitterness. Finely carbonated, it is best enjoyed chilled at around 8°C.

Chimay Rouge – Dubbel

Despite its name, Chimay Rouge is not fruity but a classic Belgian Dubbel. With a mahogany colour and beige head, it delivers flavours of dried fruits such as prunes, dates and figs, wrapped in caramel and subtle chocolate notes.

Chimay Dorée – Belgian Pale Ale

The lightest beer in the range, Chimay Dorée has an ABV of 4.8% and originates from the monks’ traditional table beer. Golden yellow with a creamy white head, it offers aromas of malt, hops, yeast, spices, flowers and herbs. Refreshing and accessible, it is best served at 6°C.

Chimay beers are best enjoyed in their iconic glassware, particularly the elegant 33cl chalice, or the 25cl version for those who wish to savour more than one.

ALCOHOL ABUSE IS DANGEROUS FOR YOUR HEALTH. PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY.