Dutch Trappist monks at the Koningshoeven Abbey, famed for their La Trappe beer, are introducing a new soft drink called Ariston. The recipe dates back 75 years, discovered while preparing for the abbey’s 140th-anniversary celebrations. Originally brewed during and after World War II due to restrictions on beer production and scarcity of ingredients, the original Ariston was deemed too sweet by modern standards. The monks have since developed a less sugary version with fruit and herbal flavors, responding to a growing health-conscious trend, particularly among younger consumers. An initial production run of 10,000 liters (36,000 bottles) is being produced outside the abbey walls to gauge public interest. Currently available only at the brewery’s tasting room, wider distribution is planned if the drink proves popular, with a potential return to on-site production.
