Orval Trappist Ale derives its name from Vallée d'Or (Valley of Gold) in Belgium.

The Orval Brewery is a Limited Company juridically distinct from the monastery and yet closely linked to it.

The Brewery belongs to the monastic Community; because it is established within the monastery grounds. It adapts its commercial policy to the Community's lived values (particular attention to the quality, ethic publicity, ... ). The revenue from the licence-fee is at present devoted to charitable aid and to the upkeep of the monastery site.