Czech beer in Prague

When you think of Prague, one of the first things that come to mind is its world-famous beer. The Czech Republic has a long and rich history of brewing, and its capital city, Prague, is home to some of the finest breweries and pubs in the world. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Czech beer, its most famous styles, and the vibrant beer scene in Prague.

History of Czech beer

Origins of Brewing in the Czech Republic

The history of brewing in the Czech Republic dates back to the early Middle Ages. Monasteries played a significant role in the development of beer, with monks brewing it for both consumption and sale. By the 13th century, the brewing industry had expanded, and many towns and cities obtained the right to brew their beer.

The golden age of Czech beer

The golden age of Czech beer began in the 19th century when new brewing techniques were introduced. Innovations such as the introduction of bottom-fermentation and the use of Pilsen malt led to the birth of the famous Czech Pilsner. This period also saw a significant increase in the number of breweries, as well as improvements in the overall quality of Czech beer.

Modern era

In the modern era, Czech beer has gained worldwide recognition for its quality and unique taste. The country’s breweries have expanded their offerings beyond traditional styles, experimenting with new techniques and flavors while still maintaining their deep-rooted brewing traditions.

The Czech Pilsner

Pilsner Urquelll

Pilsner Urquell is the original Czech Pilsner and a symbol of the country’s beer heritage. First brewed in 1842 in the city of Plzeň, this beer has become a global icon, known for its golden color, crisp taste, and refreshing finish.

Characteristics of the Czech Pilsner

Czech Pilsners are characterized by their light golden color, medium body, and a distinct hoppy bitterness derived from Saaz hops. The use of soft water and Pilsen malt contributes to their unique flavor profile, making them a favorite among beer enthusiasts worldwide.

Other popular Czech beers

Budweisser Budvar

Budweiser Budvar, also known as Czechvar in some countries, is a classic Czech lager brewed in České Budějovice. It has a rich, full-bodied taste with a hint of bitterness, making it a popular choice among beer lovers.

Staropramen

Staropramen is one of Prague’s most famous breweries, with a history dating back to 1869. Their flagship beer, Staropramen Ležák, is a well-balanced lager with a malty sweetness and a refreshing hoppy finish.

Krušovice

Krušovice is another renowned Czech brewery, founded in 1581. Their beers are characterized by a deep, golden color and a unique flavor profile, with the Krušovice Černé being a standout dark lager with a rich, roasted malt character.

Prague’s thriving beer scene

Traditional pubs

Prague is home to numerous traditional pubs, where you can enjoy an authentic Czech beer experience. Some of the most famous ones include U Fleků, U Zlatého Tygra, and U Medvídků, each with its unique atmosphere and selection of beers.

Microbreweries and brewpubs

The city’s beer scene has seen a surge in microbreweries and brewpubs in recent years, offering a wide range of craft beers to suit every palate. Some notable establishments include Pivovar Národní, Pivovar U Dobřenských, and Pivovar U Tří Růží.

Beer gardens

When the weather is warm, , Prague’s beer gardens become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. These outdoor venues offer a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying a cold beer and some delicious food. Riegrovy Sady and Letná Park are two of the most popular beer gardens in the city.

Beer tours and tastings

For those who want to dive deeper into the world of Czech beer, there are numerous beer tours and tastings available in Prague. These guided experiences offer insights into the brewing process, history, and unique characteristics of Czech beer, often including visits to breweries and tastings of various beer styles.

Prague’s beer scene is a testament to the rich history and culture of the Czech Republic. With its world-famous Pilsners, traditional pubs, and thriving craft beer scene, there’s no better place to experience the true taste of Czech beer. So, the next time you find yourself in Prague, make sure to indulge in a refreshing pint of Czech beer.

Czech beer FAQs