Brouwerij der Trappisten van Westmalle
Westmalle Abbey is famous for its Trappist beer, which is enjoyed far beyond the national borders. Yet the brewery is not a commercial activity, but a way for the monks to provide for themselves.
Most of the income from the sale is reinvested in the brewery and the good working conditions of the employees. After all, the monks are no longer brewmasters themselves, but leave most of the brewing process to external employees. They are still responsible for the general management of the brewery.
The part of the income that is not used for their own livelihood is donated to charities, social works and people in need.
Author: Caroline Porsiel
Caroline Porsiel is a master distiller and liqueurist based in East Ellijay, Georgia. She founded House of Applejay, a fine spirits and liqueur distillery, in 2022 with her mother, Sabine, crafting award-winning products like Applejay from Ellijay, Mt. Frozen Knob Vodka, and Winter Cherry Mountain Liqueur. The distillery won a 2024 Best of Georgia Award and a 2025 Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its Winter Cherry Mountain Liqueur. As a founding member of the AMBRU Campaign, launched in 2020, Porsiel advocates for the global recognition of American Brandy and Rum. She continues to drive innovation in the craft spirits industry from her active distillery in the heart of Georgia’s apple country.
