EP026 | Raf Souvereyns (Bokke), Pierre Tilquin (Gueuzerie Tilquin), and Tom Jacobs (Antidoot)
Mar 26, 2021
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Raf Souvereyns, founder of Bokke and a local fruit blending expert, Pierre Tilquin of Gueuzerie Tilquin, known for his innovative lambic techniques, and Tom Jacobs from Antidoot, a spontaneity enthusiast, dive into the essence of Belgian brewing. They discuss the delicate balance of terroir, the complexities of maintaining brewery identity, and the impact of invasive pests on fruit crops. The trio also reflects on climate change's challenges, the ever-evolving market, and the joy of crafting unique, small-scale brews that honor traditional practices.
The significance of terroir is highlighted through the use of local fruits, enhancing both flavor and sustainability in Belgian beers.
Each brewer's unique background influences their brewing philosophy, showcasing how personal experiences shape their approaches to craft beer production.
The tension between maintaining quality and meeting market demand emphasizes the challenges craft brewers face in an environment driven by hype.
Deep dives
Understanding Terroir in Belgian Beer
The podcast discusses the significance of terroir in the production of wild and spontaneously fermented beers in Belgium. Each producer emphasizes the importance of local ingredients, particularly fruits, which reflect their regions. For instance, Raph Suvrance incorporates local cherries and grapes due to the fertile fruit farms surrounding his home in Hasselt. This connection to local agriculture not only enhances the flavor profile of their beers but also underscores a commitment to sustainability and community involvement in the brewing process.
Personal Journeys into Brewing
The conversation highlights the unique paths that each brewer took to enter the world of beer production. Raph, formerly a winemaker, transitioned into brewing after a serendipitous encounter involving a half-sized Burgundy barrel that he filled with lambic. Pierre Tilquin, who had an academic background, switched from statistical genetics to lambic production due to his passion for blending traditional Belgian styles. Tom Jacobs, a former philosophy teacher, turned to brewing as a means of embodying his critique of modern society, demonstrating how personal histories can shape brewing philosophies and techniques.
Challenges of Scaling Production
A key topic discussed is the difficulties associated with scaling production while maintaining quality and individuality in brewing. The producers share insights about the tension between producing enough beer to satisfy demand and preserving the artisanal nature of their craft. For example, Raph aims for a minimum of 5,000 bottles per batch to ensure accessibility, yet he also faces the challenge of limited fruit yields from local sources. This balancing act reflects the broader challenge in craft brewing of meeting market expectations without compromising on quality or authenticity.
Navigating Hype and Market Dynamics
The producers explore the impact of hype within the craft beer community and the tension it creates in sales and consumer expectations. They acknowledge that while small production batches can create demand, they can also lead to issues with secondary markets, such as inflated prices on resale platforms. Tom expresses concern over ensuring that his beers reach genuine enthusiasts rather than being exploited by opportunistic collectors. The discussion emphasizes the importance of nurturing a loyal customer base and managing the perception of rarity and value without succumbing to the pressures of market hype.
Defining Lambic and its Tradition
The podcast delves into the complexities of defining lambic beer, highlighting the debate surrounding authenticity and tradition in its production. Pierre Tilquin clarifies how lambic is deeply rooted in regional practices, asserting that it cannot merely be replicated outside its traditional areas in Belgium. The producers argue that while innovations and variations can exist, they must respect the historical context of lambic to maintain its integrity. This conversation reflects a broader discussion within the beer community about the preservation of traditional methods amidst modern brewing trends.