Saison 1858 from Le Bocq, an old date for a beer created in 2013
In Purnode, this unfiltered blonde saison connects Le Bocq brewery's work with an agricultural past. Here we distinguish its foundation in 1858 from this beer's launch in 2013.
1858 is not the date of this recipe
Brasserie du Bocq traces its origins to 1858, when Martin Belot brewed in the outbuildings of his Purnode farm. The village belongs to Yvoir in the Dinant district. The official timeline, however, specifies that Saison 1858 was created in 2013. The name pays tribute to the brewery's history; it does not prove that this particular beer has existed since the 19th century.
That distinction is the little detail to remember. Beer names often use an old date, person or place. Reading their history accurately means separating the point when an establishment began brewing from the appearance of a particular recipe. One can draw inspiration from the other without being an unchanged copy passed down through generations.
A farm, winter and brewing
The brewery's story explains that brewing initially took place mainly in winter, when farm work required less of the workforce's time. This connection between farming and brewing gives its rural roots a concrete meaning. There is no need to imagine a castle or abbey behind every Belgian beer: work in the fields is part of the story too.
The current beer presentation describes Saison 1858 as an unfiltered blonde at 6.4% ABV, with a touch of wheat and marked bitterness. Its stated profile combines floral impressions, lime and broom. These are aromatic descriptions, not a claim that those flowers and fruits appear as such in the ingredients list.
Discovering it with accurate practical information
The interesting nuance lies between an apparently light body and a finish that retains character. A small amount is enough to pay attention to aroma and bitterness. Check the product name and strength on the label: the brewery offers several ranges, and information read about another Le Bocq beer should not be transferred automatically to this one.
An important practical point: the official website states that the new facilities no longer allow the usual tourist visits. Do not set out on the strength of an old tour leaflet. Contact the brewery for current information and stockists. The photograph shows a bottle of Saison 1858 in 2014, not a promise of access to the facilities. Drink in moderation.
Photos and credits
Photo 1 — Bottle of Saison 1858 from Brasserie du Bocq, photographed in 2014. Soti · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source.
