Join Jean Van Roy, a seasoned brewer and blender at Brasserie Cantillon, as he dives into the world of Lambic beer from Brussels. He shares the brewery's shift to organic ingredients and the profound impact of climate change on brewing. Discover how local brews connect football fans and family traditions, and learn about innovations in Lambic production, including hermetic barrels. Jean also addresses the complexities of beer trading and the necessity for smaller breweries to collaborate while preserving their rich brewing heritage.
Jean Van Roy highlights Cantillon Brewery's shift to organic ingredients as a commitment to quality and sustainability in brewing.
The impact of climate change on Lambic production is forcing brewers to adapt their methods and schedules to maintain quality.
Deep dives
Transition to Organic Brewing
In 1999, Cantillon Brewery shifted to using organic ingredients, which marked a significant change in its brewing practices. This transition reflects a broader movement within the industry toward sustainable and natural ingredients. Jean Van Roy emphasizes that this change not only enhances the quality and authenticity of the beer but also aligns with evolving consumer preferences. This commitment to organic brewing has positioned Cantillon as a leader in traditional Lambic production amidst the resurgence of craft brewing in Brussels.
Impact of Climate Change on Brewing
Climate change poses a significant challenge to the production of spontaneously fermented beers like Lambic. Jean notes that rising temperatures have shortened the brewing season, forcing producers to adapt their schedules and methods. Historically, the brewing season extended from November to May, but it has now contracted to November through mid-March. The unpredictable weather conditions create difficulties in achieving desired fermentation temperatures, which are essential for producing quality Lambic.
Frustrations with Beer Trading Practices
Jean expresses frustration with the secondary market for Cantillon beers, where bottles are sold at inflated prices far exceeding their retail cost. This practice not only alienates long-time customers who have supported the brewery through difficult times but also distorts the true value and accessibility of the beer. Despite the potential for higher profits, Jean values maintaining friendships with loyal customers over exploiting the brand's success. This perspective reflects a commitment to preserving the brewery's integrity and community ties.
Guarding the Tradition of Lambic Beer
The conversation touches on the Lambic fraternity and Jean's reluctance to collaborate with certain larger breweries or organizations that produce industrial Lambic. He emphasizes the importance of protecting traditional methods and names, such as Lambic and Goeus, from misappropriation by non-authentic producers. Jean believes that a strong commitment to preserving the heritage of Lambic is essential, and he seeks partnerships only with those who share this dedication to authenticity. His views highlight the importance of maintaining traditional brewing practices against the backdrop of commercial pressures in the industry.