At TheCru.ie, we take pride in offering our customers a curated selection of the finest craft beers from around the world. One of the standout names in our collection is Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen, a Belgian brewery renowned for its exceptional lambic and gueuze beers. This comprehensive producer summary delves into the history, brewing process, key products, awards, and recognitions of Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen, highlighting its impact on the craft beer scene in Ireland and globally.
A Rich History from Beersel, Belgium
Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen is located in Beersel, a quaint town in the Flemish Brabant region of Belgium. The brewery was founded in 1887 by Jacobus Vanderlinden. Over the decades, it has remained a family-owned enterprise, preserving its heritage while embracing modern brewing techniques. The brewery is now run by Armand Debelder, who continues the tradition of producing high-quality lambic and gueuze beers. 3 Fonteinen has played a significant role in maintaining and enhancing Belgium’s rich brewing heritage.
The Origins of Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen
The name 3 Fonteinen likely refers to the three porcelain hand pumps that let lambic, faro, and kriek flow, but this is not entirely certain. Recent research points to the valley behind the brewery where three springs — then called 'fountains' — originated. Another explanation comes from ancient mythology: many places derive their name from three sources, such as the Italian Tre Fontane abbey.
From Inn to Renowned Brewery
Their son Jan-Baptist, known as Tisjke Potter, continued his parents' business. Tisjke became involved in local politics in 1947 and was elected mayor of Beersel in 1953. Without a family successor, he sought a buyer for 'In de 3 Fonteinen'. In 1953, Gaston Debelder and his wife Raymonde Dedoncker took over, moving from their farm in Elbeek to Beersel. Despite Gaston's lack of experience, he quickly mastered the craft of blending lambic, following in the footsteps of his uncle Arthur Debelder, a well-known blender in Lot. The step from farming to gueuze blending was less significant back then, as both crafts were closely connected to the land's yield.
Expansion and Innovation
In 1961, the Debelder family purchased a building on the church square of Beersel, demolished it, and built a new café-restaurant. The name 3 Fonteinen remained, and Gaston ambitiously expanded the business, driven by his passion for gueuze brewing. He single-handedly dug new cellars under the café to ferment and mature the geuze. The café became extremely popular in the 1960s and 1970s, attracting a diverse crowd including the club 'De Mijol', founded by writer Herman Teirlinck, and many Brussels residents.
Overcoming Challenges and Resurgence
In the 1980s and 1990s, the restaurant thrived, but the consumption of geuze reached a low point around 1990 due to a shift towards cheap pilsners and sweet fruit beers. Despite considering stopping geuze production, Armand Debelder, driven by his passion and belief in the future of lambic, began brewing himself in 1998. The local and international interest in lambic culture and geuze began to pick up again.
A Modern Era of Excellence
In December 1998, Armand poured the first wort onto the cooling ship, marking the start of a new era for Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen. The brewery officially became AD Bieren in 2001 and continued to grow, gaining recognition for its commitment to traditional lambic brewing methods. By 2008, the brewery was financially healthy and producing approximately 800 hectolitres of bottled beer annually.
Adversity and Innovation
In May 2009, a thermostat defect caused a significant loss, with thousands of bottles exploding due to high temperatures. Despite this setback, the brewery bounced back with the help of friends, family, and supporters. Armand's innovative idea to distil the oxidised geuze resulted in Armand'Spirit, a fine eau de vie with geuze character.
Continuation and Legacy
By 2011, the brewery had survived its challenges and continued to thrive. Armand found a successor in Michaël Blancquaert, who shared his passion for the craft. Together, they expanded the brewery and improved its processes. In 2015, Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen found a new, larger location, allowing for better production and storage.
Embracing Tradition and Experimentation
The brewery remains committed to traditional methods while also embracing experimentation. Projects like 'Speling van het Lot' showcase new and exciting brews, while collaborations with local artisans and farmers strengthen the brewery's ties to its terroir.
Future Ambitions
Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen aims to revive and sustain its local terroir through active collaboration with fruit growers, farmers, and craftsmen. The brewery's commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation ensures a bright future for lambic and geuze lovers worldwide.
Experience Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen at TheCru.ie
At TheCru.ie, we are proud to offer a curated selection of Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen's exceptional beers. For those in Dublin, there is no better place to explore the world of Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen than at our craft beer shop in Dublin 15. The Carry Out Tyrrelstown store is a haven for craft beer lovers, featuring a wide selection of 3 Fonteinen’s finest brews. Whether you are in the mood for the classic Oude Gueuze or the refreshing Oude Kriek, our Dublin craft beer shop has something for every palate.
Craft Beer Online: Convenience at Your Fingertips
Our craft beer online shop offers a seamless shopping experience, allowing you to browse and purchase your favourite 3 Fonteinen beers with just a few clicks. Whether you are planning a gathering, a quiet evening, or simply want to explore new flavours, ordering your craft beer online has never been easier. Order your craft beer online for delivery or for collection in our craft beer Dublin shop, Carry Out Tyrrelstown in Dublin 15.
Craft Beer Delivered: Freshness Guaranteed
At TheCru.ie, we understand the importance of freshness and convenience. That’s why we offer craft beer delivered straight to your doorstep. Our efficient delivery service ensures that your favourite 3 Fonteinen beers arrive in perfect condition, ready to be enjoyed. No more hassle of carrying heavy bottles or cans from the store; simply place your order online and let us handle the rest. Our delivery service is available throughout Dublin and beyond, making it easier than ever to enjoy top-quality craft beer at home.
Awards and Recognitions: Celebrating Excellence
Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen’s dedication to quality has earned it numerous awards and recognitions over the years. The brewery’s flagship beers, such as Oude Gueuze and Oude Kriek, have been celebrated for their balanced flavours and exceptional craftsmanship. 3 Fonteinen beers have received multiple accolades at prestigious beer competitions, further solidifying the brewery’s reputation as a leader in the craft beer industry. These awards are a testament to 3 Fonteinen’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.
In Conclusion
Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen is a shining example of what makes the craft beer movement so exciting. Their dedication to quality, innovation, and community engagement sets them apart as a leader in the industry. At TheCru.ie, we are proud to offer a wide selection of 3 Fonteinen beers, available both online and in our Dublin craft beer shop. So why wait? Explore the world of Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen today and experience the best of craft beer Ireland.