Like many other Belgian abbeys, Affligem met its temporary end in 1794 - where the invasion by the French Revolutionary forces took place. However, in 1870, monks returned to Affligem Abbey and started agricultural activities once again on the site. A decade later, a neo-gothic wing was added to the abbey and a new church was erected. The brewery was re-opened in 1885.

During the second World War, the brewery was once again destroyed but the monks did not falter. Instead, they found a solution and collaborated with the brewery of Opwijk - which was located near the abbey. The fateful collaboration resulted in a rework of the ancient beer recipe so as to fit modern techniques without compromising on quality and its signature taste.

Next, Aflligem uses high-quality, single variety European hops like Savinsjki Golding and Spalter Select, which gives its beers a mildly bitter quality. The secret of Affligem actually lies in the yeast that is used; the brewery’s special house yeast is what gives all its beers a characteristic rich and smooth signature taste. Lastly, before the team bottles and draughts their beers, they will first do a taste test to ensure that every batch they brew is perfect.

The result of such a conscientious brewing process is award-winning beers that are beloved by beer fanatics around the world. With multiple medals and awards under its belt, Affligem’s Blond is the brewery’s flagship beer. The blond is a well-balanced, rich and smooth beer that has a mild hoppy bitterness underneath its soft fruitiness.