Heuvelland (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – A new wine growers’ brotherhood has started in West Flanders, Belgium, with members from Heuvelland, Staden, Izegem, Wervik, and Zonnebeke. Led by Ward Six, the brotherhood honours Saint Vincent and promotes local wine traditions. With 150 hectares of vineyards.
A new group of wine growers has started in West Flanders, Belgium. First-time wine growers from this province have come together officially. The group includes members of Heuvelland, Staden, Izegem, Wervik, and Zonnebeke. They formed a brotherhood to celebrate their passion for making wine.
The group also honours Saint Vincent, the patron saint of winemakers. According to authorities, the brotherhood highlights the growth of winemaking in West Flanders. There are now more vineyards and local wines are gaining recognition. They mentioned that by working together, the growers can support each other and promote their winemaking traditions, helping to build a stronger wine community in West Flanders.
“We are the first province in Belgium where winegrowers have established a brotherhood together and celebrate the patron saint of Saint Vincent,”
Says winegrower Ward Six (50).
What is the new wine brotherhood in Heuvelland about?
Ward Six is a key member of the wine growers’ brotherhood in Heuvelland. He is 50 years old and has deep roots in the local wine scene. Nearly thirty years ago, his father planted the first vines on the Monteberg hills, which have become a symbol of the area’s potential for winemaking. Ward believes the brotherhood is important for wine growers. It allows them to celebrate their craft and share knowledge, and it also helps them remember their shared history.
According to winegrower Ward Six, Heuvelland is known as the birthplace of wine growing in West Flanders. This makes the region a leader in Belgium’s wine industry. While Heuvelland is still very important, other places in West Flanders are also making big contributions.
The vineyards in the province cover about 150 hectares in total. Sommelier José Lemahieu says it is one of the fastest-growing parts of the economy. He mentioned that the rise in vineyards shows a change in farming methods. There is also a focus on local and high-quality production. This helps West Flanders stand out in the Belgian wine scene.
“That makes us one of the frontrunners in Belgium. Wine growing is one of the fastest growing economic sectors in our country”,
Says sommelier José Lemahieu.
According to solemnly, the new winegrowers’ brotherhood had a big celebration. Members made a promise to care for the earth and respect nature. They promised to make each wine with love and attention. The celebration started with a parade from the village of De Klite.
He mentioned that this village was an important place for the start of the event. The parade moved to the ‘t Zwaluwnest estate. This estate was the main spot for the celebration. The event honoured the history of wine growing in Heuvelland.
“I promise to respect the earth, to honour nature and to create each wine with care and dedication,”
Solemnly declared.
All members wore new robes made for the event. These robes were dark burgundy and were made just for each member. During the ceremony, each member promised to earn the right to wear the robe. They vowed to work in their vineyards with honour. Ward Six mentioned that they also promised to make great West Flemish wine.
“We had beautiful, personalized cloaks made in matching dark burgundy. We took a vow to be allowed to wear that cloak and swore to work in the vineyard with honour, love and passion to let people enjoy excellent West Flemish wine,”
Says Ward Six.
The new brotherhood held a special ceremony to mark its beginning. Members wore dark burgundy robes made just for them. They lit a big fire using pruning wood from each member. Dirk Syx, a winegrower, said they want to repeat this event every year and invite more people. About 20 winegrowers joined together, hoping to grow their community and celebrate West Flanders’ wine culture.
“We want to repeat this procession every year and attract more and more people,”
Says Dirk Syx (60).
