Wyoming Monastery Is Brewing Up ‘Mystic’ Coffee

For centuries, monks have been brewing beer at monasteries in Belgium. But did you know, there's a group of monks right here in Wyoming crafting a different kind of brew?

Mystic Monk Coffee is produced at a catholic monastery on Carter Mountain near Powell, Wyoming.

In 2003, Bishop David Ricken of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Cheyenne authorized the founding of the Monks of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel.

Known as the Carmelite Monks, they observe sacred, centuries old sacred rituals. They segregate themselves from society, take vows of celibacy and poverty, and pray for several hours each day.

To finance the constuction of their New Mount Carmel facility, which will include a three-story refectory and housing for the monks, they market their own brand of gourmet coffee, which is roasted and distributed at the monastery.

Their coffee has drawn rave reviews from both critics and customers alike. Of their 27 different flavors listed by the website CoffeeReview.com, they each received a rating of 87 or higher.

Over the years, the Mystic Monks have expanded their product line. They now produce several varieties of tea along with drinkware, gifts, novelties and even brewing equipment.

One of their "faithful followers" enjoys their coffee so much, he even wrote a song about it.