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What is Spontaneous Fermentation? It is what happens when a brewer, winemaker, or distiller leaves the inoculation (the moment when yeast and bacteria come in contact with the liquid) up to whatever organisms happen to be in the air or on the fruit that they are fermenting. It is an age-old practice, first by accident and then by intention, that truly puts Mother Nature at the helm of brewing magic. ➡️ It is no surprise that I was extremely interested in learning more about spontaneous fermentation of Iambic beers. I sought out a Iambic brewer and gueuzesteker (blender) who could teach me more about the sour styles from the Valley of the Senne and the Pajottenland in Belgium. This is, in fact, the birthplace of Lambic beers. I was fortunate enough to spend the day with Armand De Belder of the 3 Fonteinen brewery, located in Beersel, Belgium. Over the years, Armand’s beers have been highly rated all around the world thanks to his attention to detail, use of natural ingredients, and passion for the craft. Just to give some context to his team’s work ethic, Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen was named the best brewery in Belgium in 2015 by Ratebeer and the Third Best Brewery in the World. ➡️ When I first met Armand, I could sense the passion for Lambic that is in his blood. He drove me around the city of Beersel and showed me over 20 different gueuzesteker residences from the past. As we drove, he explained how the craft and the blenders of Lambic slowly vanished over time. We had lunch at the original 3 Fonteinen property that his father purchased in 1961, which is now the Restaurant 3 Fonteinen run by his brother, Guido. We discussed his familial relationships and his obsession with preserving a tradition shrouded in mystery. ➡️ What I sensed during our meeting that day was a man who worked extremely hard and gave everything he had to keep the tradition of making and blending Lambic from dying. He put his passion before himself, sacrificing his personal life to build 3 Fonteinen to the renowned brewery it is today. I could relate his journey to my military service; I understand the dedication required to make sacrifices for something you believe in. Selfless service to a higher calling can often lead to regret on some level, but as I saw first-hand the spoils of his dedication, it was apparent what his dreams and aspirations were. I hope you enjoy the story of Armand and 3 Fonteinen, and that you remember him when you next savor the sweet result of his hard work. 💬 Let us know what you think of this Video in the comment section below. We appreciate every thumbs up and would love if you would consider subscribing to the channel!! ✅ Sign up for Newsletter and find more Information here: Thanks for Watching! ******************** Links to 3 Fonteinen: 🔸 Website: 🔸 Instagram: ******************** 🎥 Welcome to the official YouTube Channel of Beer, Wine & Spirits 🎥 Hi, I’m Jeff Bradford. My passion for beer, wine, and spirits ignited an urge to investigate the stories behind the labels. So, in 2018, I sold everything I owned to travel the world. My objective: to learn the secrets of brewers, winemakers, and distillers. From Switzerland to Jalisco, I set out to determine why their process yields extraordinary results. With each stop on the map, I reveal time-honored traditions, cultural influences, and industry practices that help you discover the soul of these incredible products. As a former member of the US military, I learn by doing. You will see me harvesting grapes in South Africa, pouring beer at Oktoberfest, and chopping agave in Tequila. 🍷 🥃 ➡️ My channel is dedicated to the passionate, hardworking people who make the beverages associated with our favorite celebrations, special events and amazing moments with those we love. Join me as I find the next fascinating story about your favorite Beer, Wine, and Spirits. Cheers! So, definitely subscribe to my channel and hit the bell to never miss a Video 🔔 ******************** 👍 Let’s Connect! Follow me on your favorite Social Media: Instagram ➡️ Twitter ➡️ TikTok ➡️ @beer_wine_spirits?lang=en Facebook ➡️ Linkedin ➡️ 🌐 Visit my Website: 📧 Contact me anytime: jeff@ ✨ And don’t forget to subscribe to the Channel! ******************** 🎬 🖥 Filming and Editing by: Yoel Kamara Website: Instagram: ******************** #JeffBradford #Lambic #Beer
