The history of RODENBACH brewery

The Rodenbachs moved from Andernach am Rhein to Roeselare in West Flanders. The Rodenbach line boasted numerous military men, poets, writers, brewers and entrepreneurs, as well as pragmatic revolutionaries and politicians.

Pedro Rodenbach took part in Napoleon’s Russian campaign and was instrumental in the Belgian revolution in 1830, which led to an independent Belgium. Three Rodenbachs were members of the constitutional congress when Belgium was founded. 

Constantijn Rodenbach was the author of the “Brabançonne”, the Belgian national anthem.

In 1836, Pedro Rodenbach, together with his entrepreneurial wife Regina Wauters, founded the brewery. However, it is Eugène Rodenbach whom RODENBACH has to thank for its unique quality and masterful character. Not only did he study the vinification of beer, but also optimised the maturation process in oak casks, or “foeders” (maturation casks). The world-renowned cask halls with their 294 oak casks, some of which are 150 years old, are protected as part of the industrial heritage of the Flemish Community.

As part of its efforts to protect Belgium’s beer heritage, PALM Breweries became steward of RODENBACH Brewery. The building complex and the cask halls were restored. The visitors’ centre with a museum about the unique Rodenbach family and beer was officially inaugurated on 23 June 2000. The state-of-the-art brewing room came into use in January 2002.

The brewing and fruit master Brewery RODENBACH presented along with Viki Geunes, all in working order before the summer bottling. RODENBACH the Caractère Rouge Viki Geunes, grants - since 2011 - because of its sharp, unique trial skills and his exceptional creativity, cooperation in product innovation and product development at Brewery RODENBACH.
The brewers have RODENBACH Vintage, traditionally matured for two years in large oak casks for six months further maceration with fresh cherries, raspberries and cranberries. The result is RODENBACH Caractère Rouge, an exceptional RODENBACH with maceration of fruit and an alcohol volume of 7%. This beer is more than unique and also exclusive because it is seen as 'Limited Edition' in a champagne bottle of 75 cl. bottled. Half the bottles are shipped abroad. Of the export volume is America, where the "Sour Ales' very loved, the largest buyer! Restaurant 't Zilte Geunes combines quirky beer with its exquisite gourmet creations.

Article number: FBB21268