by Brasserie de la Cambre (Brouwerij Het Anker)
This is a relatively new beer to the Belgian market, though the label has a long history. The La Cambre Abbey, on the banks of the Maelbeek in Brussels, was founded in 1201 by Lady Gisele. Her image still adorns the label of today’s beer.
The Cistercian sisters who lived in the abbey brewed beer for centuries, though that ceased during the French Revolution. It wasn’t until 2014 that the La Cambre label was revived by a Belgian brewer who had an interest in the history of the abbey.
Since 2022 there has been an agreement with Brouwerij Het Anker (of Gouden Carolus fame among others) where they brew the La Cambre beers under licence. So we now have just two La Cambre beers in the market, a Belgian IPA and this blond beer.
Our beer is a slightly hazy golden colour with a rich nose of malt and Belgian yeast.
The sweet malt presents first, with hints of lemon and honey. But as the beer progresses the hop bitterness kicks in. It dries the beer out with a herbal, earthy character leading to a slight spiciness on the lingering bitter finish.
A very traditional, tasty beer as you’d expect from one of Belgium’s best breweries.