Hidden within the heart of Brussels lies Rue Henri Maes Henri Maesstraat a street steeped in brewing history. It’s not just any street. It’s a street linked to the legendary De Halve Maan brewery in Bruges. Though not directly located on Rue Henri Maes the street’s namesake Henri Maes holds a significant place in the brewery’s saga.
The Maes family’s story is intertwined with De Halve Maan. Leon Maes also known as Henri the First became the brewery’s owner in 1856. He crafted unique beers hazy and sour. His legacy continued with Henri II and his brother who modernized brewing techniques after a trip to England. Tragedy struck when both brothers died young. Their widows bravely kept the brewery running.
Henri III took the helm in 1919. He invested in new equipment. He was able to produce both top and bottom-fermented beers. In the 1930s he created a popular light lager. He also innovated by distributing water lemonade and cola. The brewery used horse-drawn carts for deliveries later switching to iconic Halve Maan trucks.
Henri IV officially took over in 1958. He ran the brewery with his father. His daughter Veronique joined in 1981 becoming one of Belgium’s first female brewers. They launched Straffe Hendrik meaning Strong Henry a tribute to the many Henris in their family. Veronique modernized the brewery. She created a museum showcasing the brewery’s history and events space.
Xavier Vanneste Veronique’s son and the sixth generation revived the brewery in 2005. He launched Brugse Zot a top-fermenting beer that became a huge success. He invested in new equipment and expanded the brewery further. The brewery’s beers won many awards. De Halve Maan’s popularity led to the construction of a bottling plant just outside Bruges. In 2016 they built a unique underground pipeline to transport beer reducing traffic in Bruges.
Rue Henri Maes may not house the brewery itself. The street’s name reminds us of the Maes family’s vital role in the enduring success of De Halve Maan. Their story is one of innovation resilience and a deep-rooted love for brewing. It’s a legacy that continues to flow like the beer through their famous pipeline and across generations. This street in Brussels quietly connects to a brewing empire born in Bruges. It’s a subtle but powerful link in a fascinating story.