Legend Brother Jacob

Many are familiar with the folk song about the brother who stayed in bed too long, Brother Jacob.

But how was it that this poor friar missed the morning prayers? The legend tells the following story: It is 1835 in the Montfortan abbey of Rotselaar. Sixteen-year-old novice Jacobus Klaaszn is assigned by his abbot to be apprenticed to Brother Isidore, the abbey’s brewmaster. Because this wise old man is nearly eighty years old, the abbot wants to prevent Isidoor’s secrets of brewing from disappearing into the grave with him. Isidore’s beer is a mild, slightly alcoholic brew that the fathers enjoy at lunch.

Brother Jacob, as the boy is now called, shows great zeal in his learning. One day Brother Isidore sends him to the Abbey of Rochefort. There he tastes a beer that pleases him very much. He gets into conversation with the Father Brewmaster and gains new insights. Once home, he confesses to the abbot what he has learned and asks permission to brew a similar beer himself. The abbot agrees, provided Brother Jacob does so in his spare time.

As a result, Brother Jacob often finds himself among the pots, kettles and barrels in the middle of the night. He is so dedicated to his work that he does not seek his cell until late. The consequence is common knowledge. “Brother Jacob, art thou still asleep?”

Brother Jacob’s efforts prove fruitful. One day, his brew is perfect. He presents his first cask to the abbot, who is both pleased and concerned. The beer is delicious and full of flavor, but contains more alcohol than the fathers are used to. Therefore, the abbot orders that the Brother Jacob beer be brewed only in strict secrecy, and only for him and the brother brewer. And so it happens…

… until, in the 21st century, Johan Claes becomes inspired again. He begins a new brew, to which Brother Jacob gives his blessing.