Enjoy a craft beer in Poland with over 400 craft breweries to choose from offering a myriad of different tasting beers from traditional to incredible. These breweries are in themselves an attraction for beer drinkers from across the world. Why do Polish craft beers enjoy such recognition and why are they worth trying?
What are Craft Beers?
Craft beers are drinks brewed by independent breweries that focus on quality, tradition and innovation. Unlike mass-produced conglomerate beers, kraft beers are created by passionate brewers who experiment with different beer styles to create unique flavour compositions. They use high-quality ingredients in the brewing process, often following unique recipes.
History of Craft Beer in Poland
The oldest historical evidence of brewing in Poland dates back to the early medieval period. The earliest records mention beer production around the 10th century, during the time of the Piast dynasty, Poland’s first ruling dynasty.
However, nearly all the existing craft breweries were founded during the 21st century, their emergence a response to the growing demand for quality products that offer something more than standard commercial beers.
Back in the 90’s, craft beer in Poland was only available in a handful of pubs and specialist shops. Currently, they have become much more popular and the number of craft breweries is constantly growing. Today, there are over 400 hundred craft breweries in Poland and craft beers can be found in local shops.
Why is it Worth Tasting Polish Craft Beers?
Craft beers are a completely new taste experience. They have nothing in common with mass-produced beers available in shops or supermarkets. It is worth emphasising that there is a story behind every craft beer.
What Distinguishes Craft Beers?
Variety of styles: craft beers are available in a myriad of styles – from light and fruity wheat beers, through flavourful IPAs to strong and substantial stouts.
Quality: Craft brewers pay great attention to the quality of raw materials and the brewing process, which contributes to the beer’s unique taste and aroma.
Support of local producers: When we buy craft beers, we support local breweries and artisans who are passionate about creating their products.
Innovation: It is interesting to note that craft brewers often experiment with new ingredients and techniques, which allows them to create unique beers that surprise and delight.
Popular Craft Breweries in Poland
Poland boasts a number of well-established craft breweries that have gained recognition both at home and abroad.
Lubicz Brewery in Kraków
The Lubicz Brewery is located in a post-industrial building of the former malt house, dating from the second half of the 19th century. It is here – within the walls, where the spirit of Old Polish customs has settled – beer from Lubicz Brewery has been known across the region for over 170 years.
Craft Beer Tastings
Most breweries allow beer tastings on site or sometimes the opportunity to take a tour of the production facility. Tasting traditional beers is a unique experience that allows you to discover the variety of flavours, aromas and textures of craft beer in Poland. Each sip is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich world of brewing, to learn about its history, as well as your own tastes in terms of beer flavour.
Summary
Craft beer in Poland has definately become a thing. The growing popularity of this market segment proves that Poles appreciate the quality and uniqueness of the products. And foreign tourists are keen to visit Poland because they know that in addition to picturesque landscapes, they will experience a wealth of flavours and a variety of beers that reflect regional traditions and the innovative approach of Polish craft breweries.
Photo Credits / brewery by Martin Martz on Unsplash / man drinking by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash / beer glasses by Yutacar on Unsplash / glass of beer by Jonas Jacobsson on Unsplash