Catalogue no. BBG045
Glasses
Exhibit information
Glass style Goblet A stemmed glass with a broad bowl, traditionally associated with stronger Belgian beers, particularly Trappist and abbey ales.
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Explainers
Capacity 33cl (unmarked) Curator’s Notes A study in monastic understatement, this Westvleteren goblet is distinguished less by decoration than by provenance, inscription and its association with one of Belgium’s most revered Trappist breweries. The broad bowl, simple stem and restrained Abbey crest are remarkably modest for a beer whose reputation has made a visit to Westvleteren something approaching a pilgrimage for some enthusiasts.
The most revealing detail is also one of the easiest to miss. A subtle white band encircles the bowl, carrying a Latin inscription that can be remarkably difficult to read unless the glass catches the light at the right angle: Ut vivam me coquunt, non vivam ut me coquant — essentially, “we brew to live, not live to brew”. It is a characteristically understated expression of the place of brewing within the monastic life: the brewery exists to support the Abbey and its community, rather than being their reason for existence. The foot is additionally marked Anno – 1839 –, referencing the beginning of brewing at the Abbey.
I acquired this glass during a visit to Westvleteren in spring 2026. For all the reputation surrounding the beer and the almost pilgrimage-like quality the journey can acquire, the glass itself seems entirely comfortable with understatement.
