It’s time for a real throwback. Our company started in 1906, long before we became known for our varied range of specialty malts. Back then, De Zwaan was a brewery, and malting was simply a way to secure high-quality raw materials. However, this small-scale malting operation eventually grew into the heart of our business.
In 1906, a devastating storm surge flooded the farmlands of Kloosterzande. Since barley thrives in saline soil, Jos Buysrogge saw an opportunity. Determined to rebuild, he opened a brewery and named it De Zwaan. At the time, most breweries malted their own grain, so he partnered with Alois Adriaansens to build the necessary infrastructure, including a mill. The duo’s dedication ensured a steady supply of malt, allowing them to produce consistent, high-quality beer.
Menu of Brewery De Zwaan
When Joos Menu purchased the company in 1923, the brewery expanded significantly. The range included traditional Belgian styles, such as Gerstebier (a top-fermented alternative to Pilsner) and Tripel. Given our location just kilometres from the Belgian border, this was no surprise. However, De Zwaan also brewed a Deutsch Trappisten Bräu, an unusual addition for the region. This international influence demonstrated the brewery’s willingness to experiment, a trait that remains in our DNA today.
A turning point in World War II
World War II brought significant challenges. Occupying forces confiscated the brewery’s copper kettles for the weapons industry, leaving De Zwaan without essential brewing equipment. After the war, Joos Menu realised that reopening the brewery was no longer viable. Resources were scarce, and rebuilding a full-scale brewing operation seemed impossible. Instead, he decided to focus entirely on malting, supplying high-quality malt to other breweries. This shift allowed the business to survive and adapt to a changing industry. As a result, Brewery De Zwaan ceased to exist, giving rise to Mouterij Menu.
Although this was a difficult decision, it marked the beginning of the company we are today. Our heritage in brewing shaped our expertise in malting, allowing us to become a trusted partner for brewers worldwide. Over the decades, we have refined our processes, invested in innovation, and stayed true to our roots. While our focus has shifted, our passion for quality and craftsmanship remains unchanged.
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