Tongerlo, an authentic beer with tradition.

There are different facts from which we can tell the Norbertines of Tongerlo have been brewing beer since the establishment of the abbey in 1133. First of all, back then, beer was the most important beverage in our parts. After all, clean potable water was not widely available. Furthermore, the bishop of Kamerijk´s establishing charter claims a gift of "a piece of land in Tongerlo with an annual yield of 38 barrels of brewing grain and 10 barrels of barley". Both products are basic ingredients for brewing beer. From that we can conclude that beer has been brewed in the abbey since the 12th century.

World War I put an end to the brewing activities in the abbey. After all, the German occupying forces took possession of the precious copper stills with a view to use them in battle.

In 1989 the abbey landed a deal with the Haacht Brewery to start brewing Tongerlo abbey beer again.

Today the Norbertines of Tongerlo are still involved in the production of Tongerlo abbey beer. Thanks to the interaction between modern brewing techniques and the respectful use of centuries-old traditions, the ambition to produce a premium quality beer with a great taste remains the same.

Source: L.C. Van Dyck: "The former brewery of the Tongerlo abbey."

With modern brewing techniques and great passion, Brewery Haacht helps the Norbertines of Tongerlo in preserving these centuries-old traditions