Consistent partner of the Alpe d’Huez Triathlon, the Belgian Trappist beer and cheese brand Chimay is back in force for the 18th edition. But for the first time, in collaboration with the organisers, tastings of its products will be on offer in the heart of the Village Expo by Dacia Auto Dauphiné. A chance to (re)discover the history of this unique brewery.
The Alpe d’Huez Triathlon and Belgium have long enjoyed a special relationship. Since 2023, the Belgian delegation has been the most represented community at the event, as it was this year with over 500 entries in the various races. So there’s a real love affair between the land of beer and the Alpe d’Huez Triathlon! Further proof of this close relationship is the partnership between the event and Chimay, a Trappist abbey on the edge of the Walloon region, just a stone’s throw from the border with France.
A common value: solidarity
Concerned about their self-sufficiency, the Trappist monks of Chimay decided in the mid-19th century to diversify their sources of income by starting to produce beer. It was a good move, as the beverage made with ingredients grown on the abbey’s land very quickly attracted the attention of experts in the region. The virtuous spiral had begun: the monks improved their brewing techniques, expanded their range and created a real brewing tradition within the walls of the abbey itself.
While Chimay’s beers are renowned for their complex flavours, subtle balance and creamy head, their originality lies above all in the brand’s social commitment. As a Trappist beer, Chimay complies with the strict criteria laid down by the “Association Internationale Trappiste” (AIT), in particular the exclusive use of profits for the subsistence of the monastic community and charitable works. Every bottle of Chimay beer contributes to social initiatives for the underprivileged and to educational projects. As a committed sporting event, the Alpe d’Huez Triathlon shares these values of solidarity and generosity, and could not fail to become a partner of this resolutely different brewery.
New for 2024: cheese tasting in the Expo Village
This year, Chimay is breaking new ground in the Expo Village by offering beer and cheese tasting throughout the week. While competitors in the Alpe d’Huez Triathlon are already familiar with the range of 5 beers – Chimay Dorée, Chimay Rouge, Chimay Triple, Chimay 150 and Chimay Bleue – in July they will discover a range of cheeses produced with milk selected and collected by a cooperative of farmers close to the abbey and paid fairly. On the Chimay stand, the cheeses produced at the abbey will be available for tasting and sale, including Chimay… with beer, of course! This event is an opportunity to discover the surprising combination of beer and cheese, and above all to consume products of excellence that uphold essential values.
Not-to-be-missed Chimay events
(see you at the bar of the Village Expo Dacia Auto Dauphiné )
– Monday 22 July, 3.30pm: cheese tasting
– Tuesday 23 July, 11.30am: cheese tasting
– Wednesday 24 July, 11.30am: cheese tasting