De Dolle Brouwers

Belgian brewery known for its artisanal beers

Entrance to De Dolle Brouwers

De Dolle Brouwers is a renowned Belgian brewery located in Esen, a village in the Diksmuide municipality of the West Flanders province. The brewery is celebrated for its artisanal approach to brewing and its distinctive, flavorful beers.

History

De Dolle Brouwers, which translates to "The Mad Brewers," was founded in 1980 by the Herteleer brothers, Kris and Jo. The brewery was established in a former brewery building that dates back to 1835, originally known as the Costenoble Brewery. The Herteleer brothers revitalized the site, bringing new life to the historic brewing equipment and traditions.

Kris Herteleer, co-founder of De Dolle Brouwers

Kris Herteleer, an architect by training, took on the role of head brewer. His passion for brewing and creativity in recipe development have been pivotal in establishing the brewery's reputation. The brewery's name reflects the founders' playful and unconventional approach to brewing.

Brewing Philosophy

De Dolle Brouwers is known for its commitment to traditional brewing methods, using high-quality ingredients and open fermentation techniques. The brewery emphasizes the use of local ingredients, including hops from the nearby Poperinge region and malt from Belgian suppliers.

The brewery's beers are unfiltered and bottle-conditioned, allowing for natural carbonation and complex flavor development over time. This artisanal approach results in beers that are rich in character and depth.

Beers

De Dolle Brouwers produces a range of beers, each with its own unique profile. Some of the most notable include:

• Oerbier: The flagship beer, a strong dark ale with a complex blend of malt, fruit, and spice flavors.
• Arabier: A golden ale with a pronounced hop character, showcasing the brewery's use of local hops.
• Dulle Teve: Also known as "Mad Bitch," this tripel is strong and full-bodied, with a balance of sweetness and bitterness.
• Stille Nacht: A Christmas ale brewed with pale malt and candy sugar, known for its warming alcohol content and rich flavor.

Mash tun at De Dolle Brouwers

Brewery Tours

De Dolle Brouwers offers tours to visitors, providing an insight into the brewing process and the history of the brewery. Tours include a walk through the brewing facilities, where visitors can see the traditional equipment in use, such as the mash tun and fermenters.

Lambic fermenter at De Dolle Brouwers

The tours conclude with a tasting session, allowing visitors to sample the brewery's beers and appreciate the craftsmanship involved in their production.

Cultural Impact

De Dolle Brouwers has played a significant role in the resurgence of interest in Belgian craft beers. The brewery's innovative approach and dedication to quality have inspired a new generation of brewers both in Belgium and internationally.

Related Pages

• Belgian beer
• List of breweries in Belgium
• Beer in Belgium

Driveway gate at De Dolle Brouwers

External Links

• [Official website of De Dolle Brouwers](http://www.dedollebrouwers.be)