GEUZESTEKERY DE CAM
overviewTYPE: Blendery (BD)
TOWN: Gooik STREET: Dorpsstraat 67 ACCESS: Auto via N282/N285 HOMEPAGE: Geuzestekery De Cam TAPS: No FOOD: No |
THE FULL POUR
In the spirit of full disclosure, you must be warned that this one is a personal favorite experience. Geuzestekery De Cam is one of the smallest blenders in Belgium, but what it lacks in size is greatly exceeded by its soul and character. The primary offerings are oude gueuze, oude kriek and unique lambics with various added fruits (try the nectarine). Karel Goddeau has been running De Cam since 2000. Prior to him taking over, the blendery had a fairly short history and had only been in operation since 1997. As the story goes, Karel was already assisting at De Cam, when some pivotal changes presented a unique opportunity for him to assume full blending responsibilities (*). Luckily for us, he accepted the torch when it was offered to him. While the reputation and quality here speaks for itself, it's clear that there's a distinct correlation with said quality and the philosophy of its proprietor. In meeting Karel, one can instantly see his determination to nurture his craft and uphold deep traditions in lambic blending.
WHY IS THIS ON THL?
An experience at Geuzestekery De Cam is perfect for those that are looking for additional insight into the lambic blending process and (indeed) to sample some remarkable examples. At its very core, a visit here is exactly what beer wandering is all about . . . making the effort to meet exceptional people, with a contagious passion for their unique contributions to the culture. In response to a question about his formal blending trajectory, Karel indicated that he knew it was his calling at a very young age. This insight is highly evident in his fire. "Every barrel has a different story to tell," he proclaimed. Clearly, he possesses the experience, knowledge and inherent ability to foster the magic for each tale to unfold.
WHAT'S NEARBY OUT tHERE?
* Source: Lambic.info