Today we did something a bit different; we headed to Popering in the southwest corner of Flanders to visit the Hommel Bier Hop Farm. We were amazed to see the time and dedication that goes into growing hops. From the care given to the soil, the cutting off of shoots, to the hard work that goes into making sure the hops are growing up the wires was amazing. Pests and bugs are an enemy to the hop vines, and the winds are also a huge challenge. The fields are lined with large trees to protect the vines from the winds, but we can attest to just how windy it was walking around there. To see the care and pride that went into the growing of hops is impressive.

When it was time for lunch we were able to sample a hop-infused gin produced by the farm and had a great bag of several types of local sandwiches which were washed down with their Hommel beer. This beer was a wonderful mix of hops and Belgium yeast that was very much like an IPA and wasn’t overly
filling. The wife of the hop farmer who conducted the tour also entertained us with her singing and playing of the accordion.

Next we headed to the Hop Museum where we were shown the history of growing and cultivation of hops in Belgium, and shown the advances made in hop production. After this we went down stairs and across the street to a local pub where we ran into a wonderful 90 year old woman drinking a St. Benardus Tripel. Many of our group sat around her and listened to her stories of the city.

Following this we were off with Danny, the export manager, and Philippe, the brewer, of the Van Eecke family breweries. When the original brewery was destroyed in World War 1, it was rebuilt in its current local in the center of town. The 84 year old mother of Danny invited us I to her house (which is attached to the brewery) for cheese, chocolates and beer. Later we headed to the ‘T Zweerd Restaurant for another great dinner of stew and French fries. 

After dinner we went to observe the ceremony at the war memorial where the entire village turns out. Every night at 8:00pm a horn is played to honor the WWI British, Australian, French and Belgian soldiers who died defending the city. The entire monument is inscribed with their names; it was a very somber reminder of history. The entire town was destroyed during the war and was rebuilt to look exactly as it was before the war started, and was also so its impact is real on the people living in the city. This nightly event draws a crowd of 500 people and is a very emotional experience.

Beer Consultant Evan Kaye and Chris Brower