The history of St Bernardus was born in 1930 in Watou, a small town in Flanders, when Evariste Deconinck, a humble dairy farmer, obtained the license to produce Westvleteren Abbey cheeses. After World War II, the monks agreed that Evariste also made their beers, thus being born one of the most legendary collaborations in brew history. For almost half a century, beer was marketed under the name St. Sixtus, until in 1992 the brand evolved to St. Bernardus, changing its iconic monk label to the figure of a bonach judge, but preserving its essence intact.
Today, St. Bernardus is one of the most respected abbey beers in the world. Its recipe, its original yeast (from the mythical Westvleteren) and its authentic character continue to attract thousands of beer lovers. The brewery also has a modern visitor centre in Watou, where it is possible to experience the Belgian tradition closely, and even participate in the collection of hops from the Poperinge region.