As one of the 11 Trappist breweries that uses the Authentic Trappist Product (ATP) logo, it is no surprise that Westmalle’s history started with monks. In 1794, 10 French monks decided to construct an abbey between Antwerp and Turnhout, but before they could flourish there, the French Revolution hit. The monks had to flee but eventually came back in 1802. Later in 1836, Abbot Martinus Dom started building a small brewery which didn’t actually brew for outsiders till 1856, when the monks started to sell their beers at the gates. In 1930, Westmalle created the first Belgian tripel, which solidified its stellar reputation. From then on, Westmalle’s beers became so popular due to their complex flavours and continue to be loved to this day!