The Cistercian Trappist monks of Chimay have been brewing beer since 1862. Chimay Blue, or «Grande Reserve», has been brewed since 1954. Originally brewed as a Christmas beer in 1948, this dark ale has rich flavors of mulling spices and caramel, with a smooth palate and warming finish. This beer’s notes of candied fruit, caramel and spice evolve and improve with age and it can be cellared for several years under proper conditions.