Perhaps you’ve been to the breweries in Arkansas that are scattered throughout towns like Fayetteville or Rogers. And you may have tried a few of the craft specialties that they have on tap. But have you ever drunk a flight of beer with a monk? Yes, that’s right folks, there’s a monastery in our state that brews craft beer. This unique brewery in Arkansas is unlike the rest, and you'll absolutely love visiting the taproom operated by an abbey of Benedictine monks.

You might be shocked to hear that Benedictine monks are brewing beer. But this is nothing new, as this practice dates back to the 5th century.

Established in 1878, Subiaco Abbey is a picturesque monastery tucked away along the countryside of Logan County, in a tiny town that shares its name.

While the monastery operates as an all-boys academy, a retreat, and a Catholic church, it’s the brewery that has many locals and visitors flocking to it.

The brewing operation began on a small scale, when the Benedictine monks at the monastery made beer for visiting monks as well as for alumni events.

Later, it expanded into the brewery that it is today. And the proceeds help retired monks as well as provide tuition assistance.

Approximately 4 years ago, the brewery known as Country Monks Brewing became fully operational in the taproom located at the edge of the compound.

And best of all, the brewery has helped to bridge the gap between the monastery and the public.

Each Saturday the brewery is open between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., and visitors can stop by to chat with a monk and enjoy an ice-cold beer inside the taproom.

Choose from can beer that include Abbey Amber, Scholastic Stout, Peter's Chair Pale Ale, Isidore Irish Red, Brittle Beer, and Bunkerstube Brown Ale.

Occasionally, you’ll also get to enjoy specialty beers that are on tap. The beers are also available in various stores throughout the area.

If that weren't enough, you can purchase merch, candles, peanut butter as well as the delicious hot sauce. How can you skip on buying a hot sauce called Monk Sauce?

Visiting this monastery is an entire experience, and you can easily spend a few hours there.

Stop by the gift store for the information needed to take a self-guided tour of the facility. Or if you have a large group, you can schedule a tour with one of the monks.

On the property, you’ll find a gorgeous garden where the monks grow grapes, peppers, potatoes, corn, watermelon, and so much more.

Also, you’ll enjoy basking in the beauty of the picturesque campus, for it certainly is a sight to behold. Truly, the landscape, the history, and the architecture of the monastery is worth the trip, and you’ll be inspired by it all.

You might be hesitant to tour a monastery and not to mention buy beer from one. But be assured that the Monks will welcome you with open arms. They’ll even sit, have a beer, and answer all your questions as well as share the fascinating history of the monastery.

So, have you ever heard of this unique brewery in Arkansas? Tell us what you think about it in the comment section below.

And be sure to check out Subiaco Abbey’s website to plan your visit. Don't forget to follow Country Monks Brewing on Facebook to keep up with new beer as well as new goods they have for sale.