What if we told you there was a hidden brewery in Massachusetts staffed entirely by monks? This special spot in Spencer is the only one of its kind on the continent. Here’s how you can try the amazing local beer produced by real monks.

Editor’s Note: Unfortunately, since the time of publication, this brewery has permanently closed.

If you think beer and church don’t mix, think again. Spencer Brewery is a full-scale brewery that’s run by real Trappist monks.
Wikimedia Commons/John Phelan
The brewery is the only one of its kind outside Europe. Trappists are Catholic cloistered monks who support themselves through the production of artisanal goods, such as beer and cheese. Their order has been going strong since the mid-1600s.
Spencer Brewery
This means that the monks at Spencer Brewery truly follow a secluded monastic lifestyle. The brewery is behind their monastery enclosure and tours aren’t regularly scheduled, though they do host occasional events that allow the public to visit the brewery.
Spencer Brewery

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The brothers live in a beautiful traditional abbey, but the brewery itself is thoroughly modern. The monks do their daily work in monastic garb and also fill their days with reading, prayer, and making jams and jellies.
Spencer Brewery
The beer is made following the traditions of ancient Trappist monastery breweries around Europe, from which the brothers learned their craft. The typeface used on the logo is actually from the calligraphy inscribed on the high altar of their abbey.
Spencer Brewery
So how’s the beer? Pretty amazing. They produce lagers, IPAs, ale, and seasonal holiday editions. They also make a delectable peach saison and zingy grapefruit IPA.
Spencer Brewery
Though you can’t usually tour the brewery, you can find Spencer Brewery beers in large and small shops across New England. Head to your local package store to try some today!
Spencer Brewery

You can visit the Spencer Brewery website for more information about the brewery and monks, including updates on special events and where to buy their beer. For another cool hidden monastery in Massachusetts, click here.

Address: 167 N Spencer Road, Spencer, MA, 01562

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