Trappist Beer: What It Is, the ATP Label, and the Best Ones to Try
Trappist beers represent one of the absolute excellences in the global brewing scene. Produced according to a centuries-old monastic tradition, they follow strict criteria: only breweries that meet specific rules can bear the famous hexagonal label "Authentic Trappist Product" (ATP).
Insights into the Trappist Beer Cluster
- Rochefort 8 — complete guide to the Trappist with the green cap
- Chimay Dorée — the light and aromatic Trappist
What Makes a Trappist Beer Authentic?
To obtain ATP certification, a brewery must comply with three fundamental rules:
- The beer must be produced within a Trappist abbey, or in its immediate vicinity.
- The production must be supervised or directly carried out by the monks of the Cistercian Order of the Strict Observance.
- Profits must be used to support the monastery or charitable works.
Currently, fewer than 15 breweries worldwide can boast this recognition. Among them stand out Chimay, Westmalle, La Trappe, and Rochefort.
Chimay: The Belgian Icon of Trappist Beer
Founded in 1862, the Notre-Dame de Scourmont abbey in southern Belgium is the cradle of the famous Chimay beers. Among the most appreciated varieties:
- Chimay Rouge (Première) — amber and fruity
- Chimay Bleue — full-bodied and complex, perfect for aging
- Chimay Blanche (Tripel) — golden and dry, with spicy notes
Westmalle: The Birthplace of the Tripel
The Westmalle monastery, near Antwerp, is famous for being the birthplace of the Tripel style. Founded in 1794, it began brewing beer in 1836. The Westmalle Dubbel was the first Trappist beer sold outside abbey walls (1926), followed by the Westmalle Tripel in 1934. More recently came the Westmalle Extra, the beer monks drink most often: light, balanced, exciting.
La Trappe: The Dutch Voice
The only Trappist abbey in the Netherlands, La Trappe (Abdij Koningshoeven, near Tilburg) combines monastic tradition with a sustainable approach. Among its most famous beers:
- La Trappe Tripel — spicy and golden
- La Trappe Quadrupel — rich and enveloping, one of the first Quadrupel ever produced
- La Trappe Blond — soft and fruity, ideal for those new to Trappists
Rochefort: The Trappist for Meditation
The Saint-Remy abbey in Rochefort produces three numbered beers (6, 8, 10) among the most celebrated worldwide. The Rochefort 8 (green cap, 9.2% ABV) is the best seller; the Rochefort 10 (blue cap, 11.3% ABV) is considered by many one of the best beers in the world. Learn more about Rochefort 8 →
How to Taste a Trappist Beer
- Temperature: 10–12 °C for Dubbel and Tripel; 12–14 °C for Quadrupel and strong dark ales.
- Glassware: goblet or tulip glass to concentrate complex aromas.
- Pairings: aged cheeses, braised meats, dark chocolate, caramel desserts.
- Storage: many Trappists improve with aging — keep them upright in a cool place.
Discover the full selection of Trappist beers on Maltese — Chimay, Westmalle, La Trappe, Rochefort, and much more. Shipping throughout Italy. 🍺
