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Belgian Family Brewers Press Trip, Day One

The artisanal cheeses at the beer and cheese tasting at Duvel-Moortgat.
The artisanal cheeses at the beer and cheese tasting at Duvel-Moortgat.

The cheeses were selected by Kaasaffineurs Van Tricht of Antwerp.

The beer and cheese tasting at Duvel-Moortgat, led by Nicholas Soenen.
The beer and cheese tasting at Duvel-Moortgat, led by Nicolas Soenen.

The beers included Palm, Duvel, Liefmans Goudenband, Lindemans Cuvee Renee Kriek, and St. Bernardus Abt 12. Yum, a great lineup.

Good times at the beer and cheese tasting at Duvel-Moortgat.
Good times at the beer and cheese tasting at Duvel-Moortgat.

We then had a quick tour of the brewery, before heading off to Steenhuffel for a visit to Brouwerij Palm’s castle and stables, Diepensteyn. We enjoyed a short tour of the redone manor house, lead by Palm owner Jan Toye. We then enjoyed, no, savored, Rodenbach Caractère Rouge. This brew, produced with maceration of several fruits, was truly excellent, and many or us opted for more than one glass. I won’t say how many.

Jan Toye, owner of Palm Breweries, with the fabulous Rodenbach Caractère Rouge in the Diepensteyn castle.
Jan Toye, owner of Palm Breweries, with the fabulous Rodenbach Caractère Rouge in the Diepensteyn castle.

Jan also spoke at the dinner, which was another superb event, in another room. With white-gloved waiters and impeccable service, it felt like eating at a five-star restaurant. Palm and the new Palm Hop Select were paired with dishes that included a fine soup with North Sea fish, and Filet Mignon with Belgian endive and other local delectables.

We then went back to Hotel Gouden Carolus at Brouwerij Het Anker for a well-deserved night’s sleep.

For a slideshow with numerous photos of the day, click here.

Filet Mignon and other delicious things at dinner, Diepensteyn castle.
Filet Mignon and other delicious things at dinner, Diepensteyn castle.

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