I'm heading to Brussels, Bruges & Antwerp in January and I'm hoping to find and try as many Cantillon and 3F sours as I can. I was in Brussels over the summer but had limited success (it was a day trip and we had the kids in tow). Any advice on stores or bars close to the city centers that are especially good? I haven't made it to Cantillon yet. What can I expect to find there for on premises and bottle purchase? Do they offer more than what's in the local stores? Also, anyone in the Brussels area interested in an IP trade? I had some great experiences with IP trades in London. I've got Old Hickory Event Horizon, Brooklyn Black Ops and good access to the New England or North Carolina markets. George
At Cantillon you won't find much special to take away at the moment, only the regular geuze, kriek and Bruocsella. Although I heard St. Lamvinus is being released in January. But you can drink some real nice stuff at the premises (Zwanze, Fou'foune, 50N 4E,...) and it's definitely worth a visit. If you go on a Tuesday or a Thursday there's a big chance they'll be brewing. Might be interested in an IP too, PM me with what you have/want. Cheers, Kevin
Go to 3F if you can. It's not far from Brussels and you'll get more there than you'll get at any stores around. It's not at the bargain prices of the Cantillon brewery, but well worth it. Bring back as much beer as possible and pay the tax on it (you get a couple liters tax free, but you can bring in more). You'll be glad you did.
I am agree with SidSquid, moreover their Hommage's release should take place in December or January. Check your PM I will send to you a list of good spots to visit in Belgium.
Agreed, well worth it for the experience, don't worry if no whales are about, as the classics are probably the best to take home anyway. I'd just add the detail that the "more" to be had there would include a fuller range of some stuff that rarely gets into stories, plus some vintages, depending what they have hanging around. But be warned that without a car it is a bit of a hassle and the commuter train from Brussels only runs during the workweek. As ever, let me proselytize about seeking out the other good makers and blenders. You can find good variety at low markups in some supermarkets (for examples around Brussels, this Cora which is a manageable walk from the metro and maybe a 15-euro taxi from the center: http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/33142/view=beerfly ... Or this nearby wholesaler: http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/12391/?view=beerfly, much easier if you have a car but maybe a half mile from a metro stop). But, I would add, as a visitor your time may not be the savings over just going to a well regarded bottle shop in town centers.
Stay away from the bottle shops near downtown. Definitely try to get to Cantillon and Drie Founteinen. I also happen to be a big fan of Gueuzerie Tilquin. Unfortunately, his shop is open only a very limited time and is a ways out from town. Also I will PM you about the IP trade.
