There are plenty of examples of how The Franco British Network (previously FBCCI) has helped expatriates successfully install and integrate their businesses in the local Périgordine community, but it is rare that recognition is awarded in such an auspicious manner as has recently been the case for our member from Monpazier, “Biere de la Bastide”.
Starting from scratch, Hugh Davies and his wife Denise have taken over an old, lofty structure inside the historic fortified town of Monpazier and have converted the building into a bar, restaurant and brewery.
This in itself is no mean achievement particularly when one reads the comments on “Trip Advisor” such as: –
- “…Super déco chaleureuse et équipe très sympa……..”
- ” La bière est d’une qualité fantastique à la fois très sympa et très agréable, à recommander très fortement”.
The Trip Advisor notes attributed by the visitors as at August 2019 were either “Excellent” – 91% or “Très Bon” 9%.
These notes speak for themselves.
However, the accolades now go far deeper for Hugh and Denise decided to enter a Europe –wide competition at the Royal Yacht Club in London’s fashionable Knightsbridge in November 2019 in an attempt to get the Bières de la Bastide recognised over a far larger area than is presently the case.
This contest, known as the “EUROPEAN BEER CHALLENGE” is stated to be “The World’s Most Important Beer Competition Judged by Buyers”.
The Bières de la Bastide entered 9 different beers into this prestigious beer challenge and came away with 7 medals (3 Gold and 4 Silver.)!!!
A really remarkable result for which congratulations are certainly warranted.
It is with great pleasure that we convey this information to our readers.
It should be mentioned that as soon as the results were known the good news was passed to our Association with kind recognition of the assistance that FBCCI/FBN ; notably Roger Haigh ( our President) and Florence Lesueur ( Chambre des Metiers) ; had provided in the complex procedure of setting up this brewery business , particularly in the listed “Bastide” of Monpazier.
To quote Hugh and Denise: ” ………….we are slowly getting our name and more importantly, our beer, out there and it is in no small part down to you and the team. So from this team to yours we’d like to say a BIG thank you.”
In reply the FBN says: ” You are welcome. This is exactly what we are here for; renewed congratulations!! “
You will always be welcome at the brewery
Bière de la Bastide, 14 rue Saint André, 24540 MONPAZIER. www.bierebastide.com
John Beynon, Vice President, The Franco British Network, November 2019