Zundert Trappist – Dutch Monastic Brewing Rooted in Quiet Craftsmanship
At TheCru.ie, we take great pride in bringing you some of the world’s most revered beers, and Zundert Trappist is one of the rarest and most respected. As one of only a handful of Trappist breweries globally, and one of just two in the Netherlands, Zundert Trappist holds a unique position in the world of craft beer. Brewed within the walls of the Abbey of Maria Toevlucht by Cistercian monks, this is a beer born of tradition, silence, and purpose – a shining example of what authentic Trappist brewing represents in today’s craft beer scene.
The story of Zundert Trappist begins in 1899, when the Abbey of Maria Toevlucht was founded in the small town of Zundert in the southern Netherlands, near the Belgian border. For many decades, the monks supported their simple, self-sufficient life through agriculture, dairy farming, and other manual labour.
In 2013, the community made the decision to begin brewing, not to build a commercial empire, but to sustain their monastic lifestyle and fund their charitable work. With this, Zundert Trappist was born – and in 2015, it became the 9th brewery in the world to receive the official “Authentic Trappist Product” designation, a mark of purity and integrity respected worldwide.
Zundert is located in North Brabant, a rural and peaceful corner of the Netherlands that reflects the contemplative nature of the monastery itself. It’s this sense of stillness and purpose that defines the brewery’s identity. Everything at Zundert is done with intention – from the brewing to the labelling to the decision to produce just two beers.
This simplicity is part of what makes Zundert Trappist stand out in an ever-expanding world of craft beer online. There are no gimmicks or distractions, only carefully brewed beer that reflects centuries of monastic discipline and care.
Zundert Trappist follows the strict rules of Trappist production: brewed within the abbey, overseen by the monks, and with all profits directed back to the abbey’s upkeep and charitable efforts. Their brewing philosophy mirrors their spiritual life – quiet, reflective, and focused on quality above all else.
Unlike many breweries chasing the latest hop trends or experimenting wildly with adjuncts, Zundert Trappist brews only what it believes in. The brewery currently produces just two beers – a bold statement in a market driven by variety – and both are exceptionally crafted. These beers are unfiltered, naturally carbonated, and conditioned in the bottle for depth and complexity.
The ingredients used are traditional: water drawn from the abbey’s own well, a precise blend of malts and hops, and a house yeast strain that imparts the signature Trappist character – fruity, spicy, and slightly earthy. Fermentation is long and slow, with a focus on natural balance and harmony between ingredients.
The flagship Zundert Trappist 8 is a deep amber ale, named for its 8% ABV. It pours a warm copper colour with a fluffy off-white head and aromas of dried fruit, caramel, clove, and herbal spice. On the palate, it’s complex yet smooth – layers of ripe fruit, liquorice, and gentle bitterness finish in a warm, dry crescendo. It’s contemplative but approachable, ideal for sipping slowly and savouring.
The second beer, Zundert Trappist 10, is a dark strong ale introduced later. Richer and bolder, it offers notes of plum, date, molasses, and a touch of roasted malt. At 10% ABV, it is both powerful and refined – a Trappist beer to be respected, enjoyed on special occasions or with rich food pairings.
Both beers are widely appreciated in Trappist circles and among those who value monastic brewing traditions. With minimal marketing and a modest production volume, Zundert Trappist has still managed to attract global recognition, proving that quality and sincerity resonate with craft beer drinkers around the world.
Zundert Trappist has earned multiple awards for its elegant expression of traditional styles. It is frequently recognised at international beer competitions for its complexity, drinkability, and adherence to the Trappist principles. Yet beyond the awards, what truly defines the brewery’s success is its growing presence in discerning cellars and specialist beer shops worldwide – including in our own craft beer Dublin selection.
In Ireland, Zundert Trappist has carved out a place for itself among fans of Belgian and Dutch ales, and those who appreciate deeper, more reflective styles. As the craft beer Ireland scene continues to mature, beers like Zundert provide an essential contrast to more experimental brews – reminding us that restraint, patience, and tradition are just as valuable as innovation.
The impact of Zundert Trappist extends far beyond the glass. It has helped reignite interest in the Trappist brewing tradition at a time when authentic, contemplative beer is more important than ever. By brewing with purpose, focusing on quality, and keeping production modest, the monks of Zundert have created something lasting and deeply respected.
Their work resonates in craft beer Ireland online conversations and collections, as drinkers seek out beers with not just flavour, but meaning.
If you’re looking to add a truly special beer to your next order, Zundert Trappist deserves a place in your collection. Shop the best of craft beer Ireland and from around the world online with TheCru.ie or in our Dublin craft beer store, Carry Out Tyrrelstown in Dublin 15. We proudly stock Zundert Trappist beers, allowing you to enjoy these rare and respected monastic ales right here in Ireland.
Order your craft beer online for delivery or for collection in our craft beer Dublin shop, Carry Out Tyrrelstown in Dublin 15. Whether you’re seeking a quiet evening companion or an impressive gift for the beer lover in your life, Zundert delivers with depth, elegance, and integrity.
Zundert Trappist Ireland is more than just a brand – it’s a testament to what beer can be when it’s brewed with care, humility, and devotion. For those who value tradition, meaning, and quiet complexity, it offers a drinking experience like no other.
Add Zundert to your next craft beer order and enjoy a rare expression of brewing excellence – not loud, not trendy, but unforgettable.