In recent years, the number of breweries, specialty stores, and beer restaurants has increased dramatically, and so many people think that beer is a symbol of modernity. Although in fact beer is considered the most ancient alcoholic drink in the world - the first traces of its production were found in a cave in Israel, and they are at least 13 thousand years old. There is a whole theory that man began to grow crops not for the production of bread, but for beer. Whether this is true or not is impossible to prove, but it is far from being the only interesting fact in the rich history of beer.
It is believed that the first industrial production of beer started as early as VII millennium B.C.! This is confirmed by clay tablets found in ancient Mesopotamia, which depict a brewing vat and masters engaged in making the drink. Of course, at that time beer was not brewed according to modern recipes: spelt and barley, as well as various spices were used for it.
In the history of ancient Babylon, beer can be found in the laws, and quite severe ones at that - for example, the producer could be punished by death for a bad quality of the drink. In ancient Egypt, beer was also very popular - about 20 different recipes were used there.
The ancient Romans, on the other hand, considered beer a "barbarian drink" because it was used by Celts, Germans and other European tribes who were at war with the legions.
In the Middle Ages the center of beer production was the lands of Germany and Flanders. Drinks were usually brewed in monasteries, and some recipes have survived to this day, such as the famous Trappist beer, which is considered one of the symbols of modern Belgium. In those days, even children drank beer because the area was unhygienic, the quality of water was poor, and substitutes like milk deteriorated quickly.
In Russia, beer has also been appreciated since ancient times. For example, in ancient Russia it was often found at princes' feasts. It was brewed from wild honey, which was considered a rather scarce commodity, and to make it cheaper, hops began to be added to it over time. Among the Russian tsars, Peter I was especially fond of beer, and other rulers followed him - for example, under Catherine II the first brewery in the country was built.
Today in Russia and all over the world there are hundreds of such enterprises - from huge companies to tiny craft breweries. But one thing is unchanged: beer is still at the peak of popularity, and first of all - and we are only talking about quality beverages - because of its excellent taste. Come to Lambic and taste it for yourself!
Beer is considered to be a light drink - you can drink a lot of it and hardly get tipsy. But this is true only for non-strength varieties. Meanwhile, there are some that can easily give a head start to both vodka and whiskey. Let's tell you more about them! World leaders Brewmeister Snake Venom (67.5%) Scottish ale called “snake venom” for its incredible strength. It is achieved by smoking peat malt, using two types of yeast and multiple freezing. Despite the high concentration of alcohol, the beer is characterized by softness, retaining hop aroma and malt bitterness. Price - more than 6000 rubles. Used in cocktails. Brewdog Strength in Numbers (57.8%) The result of a collaboration between BrewDog and Schorschbräu, who created the beer using the “Icebock” method (freezing and clearing of ice). Additional strength was provided by a 10-year-old whisky. It was released in a limited edition at a price of $40 for 50 ml. Brewmeister Armageddon (65%) Scottish beer made from crystal malt, oats, wheat and spring water. The strength is achieved thanks to the addition of aged whisky. Price - from 5000 rubles. Koelschip Start the Future (60%) Dutch ale obtained by the “Icebock” method. Despite the standard ingredients, the flavor turned out to be unusual - sweet-tart with soapy and peppery notes. Created as an experiment, not flavor-oriented. Price - approximately $46 for 330 ml. Schorschbrau Schorschbock 57 (57%) German ale from the famous Schorschbrau brewery, which usually produces beers with a strength of 13-16%.It is distinguished by dark amber color, oily texture and burning taste with whiskey notes. It is produced in limited batches, the price is $300 for 400 ml.Rock Bottom Campbell Beer PT's Punch (56%)A California ale with guava, orange and passion fruit. Easier to drink than its European counterparts, with a pleasant bitterness and floral notes. Unlike other experimental varieties, the drink is available in online stores for pre-order. Strong in Lambic In our country, of course, you can not drink 50-degree beer. But you can treat yourself to a strong foamy drink in any beer restaurant. At Lambic we offer several with high strength. The result of a collaboration between BrewDog and Schorschbräu, who created the beer using the “Icebock” method (freezing and clearing of ice).Additional strength was provided by a 10-year-old whisky. It is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the strongest in the world, and the high degree is achieved thanks to fermentation. We will recommend excellent gastronomic accompaniments for all varieties so that you can get a real pleasure. We look forward to seeing you!
23 April 2025
There are many special options among Belgian brews, especially when it comes to beers with a history. But Bornem Double stands out even among such stars. At the recent California Microbrew Beer Festival, this Van Steenberge Abbey draft was recognized as the best in its category. What is its charm — we will tell you in this article. Main features Bornem Double is a lively beer with a full, rich, velvety flavor that harmoniously combines fruity notes and malt sweetness. The long aftertaste reveals nuances of spices and chocolate, as well as neat hop notes. Separately it is worth talking about the aroma. It is very beautiful, with notes of milk chocolate, brown sugar, vanilla and spices. The variety is good both inside and outside — in the glass it reveals a deep dark brown color with burgundy reflections. Bornem Double is usually served with meat dishes — steaks, grill, game, sausages. Despite the rather high strength of 8%, the beer is very drinkable, and you can hardly feel alcohol in it. It is also perfect for cold seasons, as it has a warming effect. Secrets of production The history of Bornem beer began in 1957 at the Beirens brewery in the town of Wommelgem. After the brewery closed in 1971, thanks largely to the abbots of the Bornem monastery, the recipe was taken over by the Van Steenberge brewery. The beer was originally sold under the St. Bernard brand and with the monk’s image on the label. However, to avoid similarity with the St. Bernardus Watou brand, the logo was changed: an image of a heron holding a fish appeared on the label. The choice of the symbol is not accidental: the heron is a typical inhabitant of the neighborhood of Bornem, which reflects both the charm of the local fauna and the traditional culture of the region. By the way, the word «heron» is often found in the names of local bars and brasseries. The main feature of this dub is the manufacturing technology. The beer is not pasteurized, and after primary fermentation in barrels it undergoes secondary fermentation in bottles, acquiring its unique taste. You can try Bornem Double in any Lambic brasserie. In our beer restaurants you will find a large selection of varieties from all over the world, including Trappists, as well as an excellent assortment of dishes and always cozy atmosphere. Come — we will find something to surprise you!
23 April 2025