I am St. Bernardus Tripel — or as they call me in Watou, a “Bernadetje.”

They say I was named in honour of young Bernadette Deconinck — daughter of Evariste, the man entrusted with the abbey’s legacy when the monks of Mont des Cats sold their Belgian property in 1934. Light, elegant, and golden as a Flemish sunset, I’ve since become a fixture at tables, taprooms, and quiet family gatherings alike. A Tripel in style, yes — but around here, I’m more than that. I’m the soul of the Westhoek in a glass.

I shimmer with a golden hue and a soft, pillowy head that lingers like a blessing. My aroma is gentle and sweet, laced with floral hops and ripe stone fruit. On the tongue, I’m a perfect harmony of soft sweetness and delicate bitterness — never overpowering, always inviting. I quench your thirst, awaken your appetite, and leave you wondering how something this light in spirit can be 8% ABV.

Pair me with roasted chicken, savoury bites, or simply serve me as an aperitif to get the evening flowing. I’m approachable, charming, and quietly complex — just like Bernadette herself.