DEN ANKER BOTTLES THEIR FAMOUS BREW

Based on the quayside of the V&A Waterfront, the restaurant Den Anker has maintained popularity due, in part, to the longevity of its Belgian house beer, Anker Golden Bier. The beer, first brewed in 1996, has been served on tap at the 21-year-old eatery ever since. Until now that is. Last week, Den Anker unveiled Anker Golden Bier as Anker Brew, bottled and available for purchase at various outlets across SA.

By way of introduction, an exuberant Gaë­tan Schmid, a Belgian actor, shared the (apparent) reason behind the tradition of looking into someone’s eyes while clinking glasses as well as a brief history of Anker Brew, created by Den Anker’s founder, the late Denis Bouckaert. Seems the Cape’s favourite ale, with its warm and inviting golden-brown hue, includes hints of hops, caramel and citrus – which is probably the reason it’s more smooth than bitter!

Accompanying the wholesome drink, bobotie, tuna and pork belly bites and an impressive ten-meter long version of the classic French sandwich, the Croque Monsieur, was served. Dessert constituted a small waffle adorned with ice cream and consisting, partly, of Anker Brew – proof that beer doesn’t only have to be drunk to be enjoyed.

Denis, who passed away in 2004, would be beaming at this celebratory extension of his legacy, which has been carried on over the years by his wife Lise, and the restaurant’s General Manager, Rejeanne Vlietman.

For more news on drinks in the Mother City, check out our Wine Etc. page.