Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-09-05 Origin: Site
Project Title: CE-Certified 500L Compact "Pub-Style" Brewing System for a New Brewpub in Lyon, France
Client: A new artisanal brewpub, "Le Chaudron Artisanal," located in the historic gastronomic heart of Lyon.
Location: Lyon, France
The French craft beer scene is characterized by sophistication and a deep appreciation for quality. In Lyon, France's capital of gastronomy, a new wave of entrepreneurs is blending this culinary heritage with the art of brewing. The founders of "Le Chaudron Artisanal" had a clear vision: to create an intimate brewpub where customers could enjoy fresh, innovative beers brewed just meters from their table. To realize this, they needed a brewing system that was not only highly functional but also compact and beautiful enough to be the centerpiece of their establishment.
The client's unique location in a historic Lyon building presented a specific and demanding set of challenges:
Strict Spatial Constraints: The available space for the brewing operation was extremely limited. A traditional, linear 3- or 4-vessel brewhouse was simply not an option. The solution had to be vertically integrated or exceptionally compact.
Aesthetic as a Feature: The brewhouse was not to be hidden away. It was a core part of the customer experience and interior design. It needed to be a "showpiece" – impeccably finished, visually appealing, and reflective of the brand's artisanal quality.
Unyielding European Regulations: As with all pressure equipment in Europe, the system required full CE certification under the Pressure Equipment Directive (PED) to be legally installed and operated. The client could not afford any risks or delays with compliance.
Brewing Versatility: To cater to a discerning clientele, the brewpub planned to offer a rotating menu of beer styles, from crisp lagers and hoppy IPAs to traditional French Bière de Garde. The system had to be flexible enough to handle diverse brewing profiles.
CASSMAN engineered a perfect solution for the urban brewpub environment: a 500L 2-Vessel Combined Brewhouse with a stacked design.
Key System Features:
Ultra-Compact, Space-Saving Design: The system featured a Mash/Lauter Tun stacked directly on top of a Hot Liquor Tank, alongside a combined Kettle/Whirlpool tun. This intelligent, vertical design reduced the required floor space by nearly 40% compared to a standard system, making it possible to fit a complete brewery into the tight space.
Full CE Certification: The entire system, including all vessels, piping, and controls, was designed and manufactured in strict accordance with CE/PED standards. It was delivered with a complete technical file and a Declaration of Conformity, guaranteeing a smooth and successful inspection by French authorities.
Showpiece Aesthetics: The brewhouse was given a "show-quality" finish. All exterior surfaces were mirror-polished, welds were meticulously smoothed, and it featured elegant glass manways, allowing customers to see the mashing process. The system looked less like industrial equipment and more like a piece of culinary art.
Flexible Electric-Powered Brewing: Equipped with a powerful and responsive electric heating system, the brewhouse provided the precise temperature control needed for step-mashing and a vigorous boil. This design avoided the complexities of installing gas or steam lines in a historic building and offered the flexibility to brew a wide array of beer styles.
CASSMAN's process was defined by close collaboration and meticulous attention to detail.
3D Layout & Visualization: We provided the client with detailed 3D models of the brewhouse, showing exactly how it would fit into their limited space. This allowed them to finalize their interior design with confidence long before the equipment arrived.
Compliance-Driven Manufacturing: Every step of the fabrication process was documented to meet CE standards. The client received regular photo updates, giving them a virtual tour of their system as it was being built.
Strategic Logistics: The system was carefully packed into a reinforced frame to ensure its protection. CASSMAN managed the logistics to the port of Marseille and provided all necessary documentation for a swift customs clearance process.
Installation Support: We provided comprehensive diagrams and remote support to the local installation team in Lyon, ensuring a smooth and correct assembly and commissioning process.
The CASSMAN combined brewhouse became the beating heart of "Le Chaudron Artisanal."
Flawless Grand Opening: The brewpub opened on schedule, with the gleaming brewhouse immediately capturing the attention and admiration of patrons.
Effortless Regulatory Approval: The CE marking and complete documentation package ensured the system passed all local inspections without any issues or delays.
Artisanal Production in Action: The brewpub is now successfully producing a diverse range of high-quality beers, with the brewing process itself becoming a key part of their brand's story.
A Smart Investment: The client was thrilled with the result, receiving a beautiful, highly efficient, and fully compliant brewery that fit both their space and their budget. "CASSMAN understood our vision perfectly," said the owner. "They delivered a system that is not only functional but truly beautiful. It passed all inspections and has become the centerpiece of our identity."
This project in Lyon demonstrates CASSMAN's expertise in creating specialized brewing solutions for the unique demands of the European market. Our ability to combine regulatory compliance, engineering ingenuity, and aesthetic excellence makes us the ideal partner for brewpubs, restaurants, and startups who want to make a bold statement in a competitive market.
Contact CASSMAN to discover how our compact and customized brewing systems can bring your vision to life, no matter the space.
