The Trappist monks of St. Joseph’s Abbey who own and operate The Spencer Brewery are pleased to announce that they have partnered with Mariner Beverages to bring their beers to Maine starting in September 2018. The Spencer Brewery is one of twelve certified Trappist breweries in the world, and is the only one outside of Europe.
Trappist monks follow the Benedictine counsel of ora et labora (prayer and work), and for centuries have supported themselves by the work of their own hands, producing a variety of products, including beer. All twelve Trappist breweries must operate in accordance with the strict rules set by the International Trappist Association (ITA), a nonprofit which ensures that the beers are brewed at the abbey, under the supervision of the monks, and that the profits provide for the needs of the monastic community and its charitable outreach. The Trappist name is a registered trademark, and beers can be identified by the hexagonal “Authentic Trappist Product” logo displayed on their labels.
Since their launch of Spencer Trappist Ale in January 2014, the brewery has added an additional eight beers to their line-up, with each earning the approval of the ITA. The beers they produce range from traditional Trappist beer offerings to distinctive interpretations of American Craft beer styles. The nine beers produced are available throughout the year on both a year-round and seasonal schedule. All of these beers will be available to the Maine market (seasonal selections at the appropriate time).
For the monks, their brewery marks both the culmination of years of hard work, and an exciting new chapter in the 193 year-old story of their monastic community. “We’re happy and grateful to be given the opportunity to share this labor of love with the world,” says Father Isaac Keeley, director of Spencer Brewery. “In our tradition beer is food (liquid bread), and Spencer is a unique experience. We hope that by brewing these beers, we can both honor the centuries-old Trappist tradition, and contribute to this exciting moment in the American Craft beer movement. We hope they will be enjoyed throughout Maine.”
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