I don't think you can legitimately compare the burgeoning Andechs operation to the Spencer Abbey. If you've ever enjoyed the Andechs abbey you know they have a multi-faceted revenue stream of which the brewery - while the biggest part - is still just one piece (their tavern and dining operation surely brings in a lot of money - the place is packed every time I go).
The Spencer Abbey has none of that, just a nascent brewery. And from the article, I'd say they qualify as their own charity right now...
Cheers!
They actually do jams and jellies under the Trappist brand, but I gather that isn't making as much money as it used to.
Part of the requirements for getting the Trappist label, as I understand it, is that it is not to be a for-profit endeavor. All the money must go either to the abbey, for upkeep, repairs and so on, things that they can't make or grow on their own, with any extra for charities.
I understand that this is a huge expense getting this up and running; I've spoken to people at a couple local stores that worked with them, as well as Dann Paquette of Pretty Things, who helped get the monks up and running from the brewing standpoint, along with the brewers from Duvel (I believe, and I don't remember the name of the Abbey itself right now)
Besides getting all the permissions from the state and federals, they've had to work for a long time to get the Trappist label, and of course build and outfit the building itself. This has been ongoing for a couple years now.
I would have hoped that the smaller beers at least would be less pricey than the imported Abbey ales, but I can understand why they aren't.
I'll reimburse you or try to find a 6er of something that's unique to this area (I live in north Georgia!)
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