Boon Brewery, a cornerstone of traditional lambic beer, officially started producing under the Boon name in 1975. This pivotal year marks when Frank Boon acquired the old De Vits Brewery, laying the foundation for the renowned lambic producer we know today. While 1975 is the clear answer for the modern brewery, its roots reach back much further into Belgium’s rich brewing history.
Defining Boon’s Beginning
When people ask "when did Boon start?", they are usually looking for the origin of the distinct brewery that crafts some of the world’s most respected Oude Geuze and Kriek. That origin is undeniably 1975. Frank Boon, a passionate advocate for traditional spontaneous fermentation, purchased the brewery from the De Vits family in Lembeek, Belgium. At the time, it was a modest farm-brewery with an established history of producing lambic.
The De Vits Precedent: A Century of Lambic
To fully appreciate Boon’s story, it’s important to acknowledge its predecessor. The De Vits Brewery had been brewing lambic on the same site since at least 1890, possibly earlier. It was a small, traditional operation, making unblended lambic and gueuze for local consumption. Frank Boon didn’t just buy a building; he bought a living legacy of lambic production, including old brewing equipment and, crucially, a connection to the wild yeasts and microorganisms unique to the Zenne Valley.
Growth and Modernization in Lembeek
After acquiring De Vits, Frank Boon committed to preserving and enhancing the traditional lambic methods. He expanded the brewery, notably moving to a larger, purpose-built facility in Lembeek in 1989. This move allowed for greater capacity, including the installation of larger oak foeders (casks) essential for the long maturation process of lambic. This expansion solidified Boon’s position as a major player in the lambic world, enabling them to reach a broader international audience while maintaining their adherence to authenticity. For more details on brewing traditions, check out our other brewing insights.
What Other Accounts Might Mislead On
Some narratives about Boon’s origins can be slightly imprecise. They might:
- Focus solely on the De Vits founding date: While important context, attributing Boon’s start to 1890 or earlier overlooks Frank Boon’s transformative acquisition and the establishment of the modern brand.
- Highlight the 1989 relocation as the start: The move to a new, larger facility in 1989 was a significant expansion, but the Boon Brewery under Frank’s ownership was already well-established for 14 years prior.
- Mistake Boon for a "new" craft brewery: Despite its growth and international recognition, Boon is not a modern startup in the typical craft beer sense. It is a continuation and revitalization of a centuries-old Belgian brewing tradition, carefully guided by a master blender.
These distinctions matter because they underscore Boon’s unique position: a brewery that respects deep historical roots while evolving to meet contemporary demand for authentic lambic.
Final Verdict
The definitive answer to when Boon Brewery started is 1975, the year Frank Boon acquired the De Vits Brewery and began producing lambic under his own name. While its historical roots as a lambic producer trace back to the late 19th century with the De Vits family, 1975 marks the birth of the modern Boon Brewery. The 1989 relocation to a larger facility was a major expansion, but not its beginning. Boon Brewery began in 1975, continuing and perfecting a storied lambic tradition.
