How’s this for DC’s Beer city cred? Seems like DC is going to boast the most Brewer Knights in the USA.
Between Bill Catron and David Alexander we were doing really well, but wait there’s more. On September 6th, Bart Vandaele of Belga Cafe will be accepted into the Knighthood of the Brewers’ Mashstaff by the Belgian Brewers Guild.
Bart Vandaele’s restaurant boasts over 130 beers, and between his Belgian cuisine using beer ingredients and his regular tasting events, the chef is clearly an advocate of specialty beer. On being told about the honor, Bart said, “In Belgium beer isn’t just a beverage, but rather a vital ingredient to Belgian cuisine and culture. It is an honor to knighted.”
The ceremony will take place in Brussels, Belgium with a parade and festivities through the Grand Place (pronounced ‘plahss’). Imagine an American-style beerfest with tasting stands located in an awesome huge town square-esque cobble stone plaza filled with 40 amazing Belgian breweries. Heaven? I think so. Bart take us with you!
The knighta, also known as le Chevalerie du Fourquet des Brasseurs, are descendant from the 400 year old noble order honored for protecting the public and providing quality beer. The group also honors King Gambrinus, the king of Beers. During the festival they bless the beer, honor Saint Arnold, patron saint of Brewers, and show off historical beer carts and things.
Congrats Bart!
