25 best Italian beers you should taste in your lifetime. Stoner's Ale, Chestnut Honey Beer and other delicacies

Ale-stars: The Best of the Italian Beer Brands

Italy, known for its rich history, culture, and gastronomy, has also made a significant impact in the world of beer (or "birra" in Italian - at least now we know where the English word originated). The major Italian beer brands have become synonymous with quality and tradition, offering a diverse range of flavors and styles that cater to various tastes. As we explore these iconic breweries and beers from classics to oddities like the Stoner's Ale or a beer stimulated by music, we'll delve into their unique stories, brewing techniques, and contributions to Italy's beer legacy. Let's raise a glass to the major players in Italy's thriving beer scene.

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Peroni Nastro Azzurro - Style & Beer

Peroni Nastro Azzurro is a flagship Italian beer of Birra Peroni, an iconic Italy beer brand, originally from Lombardy. Founded by Francesco Peroni all the way back in 1846, Birra Peroni has become a symbol of Italian beer culture and tradition. The name says it all: "Nastro Azzurro" translates to "Blue Ribbon" in English, showcasing the award-winning quality of this renowned Italian beer.

As a top Italian beer, Peroni Nastro Azzurro is a pale lager with a color of molten gold, a clean, crisp taste, and a distinctive aroma that highlights the finest European noble hops as expected from such a beloved brand. Boasting an alcohol content of 5.1% ABV, this well-balanced and highly refreshing Italy beer brand was made specifically for socializing and pairing with Italian cuisine. Brewed using only premium ingredients, including pure water from natural springs and the finest barley malt, Peroni Nastro Azzurro sets itself apart from other Italian beer brands.

Birra Peroni has expanded its product portfolio over the years to include other popular Italy beer brands such as Peroni Gran Riserva and Peroni Forte. However, Peroni Nastro Azzurro remains the brewery's most iconic and internationally recognized Italian beer. Today, Birra Peroni is owned by Asahi Group Holdings, a leading global beverage company (and also one of SharpGrid's clients), which has helped expand the availability and recognition of Peroni Nastro Azzurro worldwide.

Peroni Nastro Azzurro has a strong presence in the global market, focusing on premium positioning and stylish branding. Nowadays, you can find this Italian jewel across the whole world - both on tap in bottled.

Peroni has been associated with numerous high-profile events, including international film festivals (like the House of Peroni Nastro Azzurro at the Toronto International Film Festival or official sponsorship of the 2016 LA Film Festival), fashion weeks (London Fashion Week, Amsterdam Fashion Week and others), and sporting events (dabbling in rugby, becoming a beer sponsor of Italian Football Federation and in 2018 also a sponsor of both FC Internazionale Milano and AC Milan). Peroni Nastro Azzurro's commitment to quality and elegance has earned it a special place in the hearts of Italian beer enthusiasts and Italian culture admirers alike.

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Birra Moretti - The Golden Moustache

Birra Moretti is a cherished Italian beer brand that was founded in 1859 by Luigi Moretti in Udine, a small town in northeastern Italy which at the time was still a part of the Austrian Empire (yes, that's how far beer brands' history can go). It was family owned till 1989, well over a century. The brewery's history is deeply rooted in Italian beer tradition and family values, which continue to influence its approach to brewing today. Birra Moretti has become synonymous with quality and authenticity, making it a favorite Italian beer choice among beer drinkers in Italy and beyond.

This popular Italy beer brand, Birra Moretti, is a pale lager characterized by its golden hue, frothy white head, and delicate aroma of cereals and hops. With an alcohol content of 4.6% ABV, this Italian beer is well-rounded, balanced, and highly drinkable. It is brewed using a combination of high-quality ingredients, including pure water, barley malt, maize, and hops, which come together to create a smooth, refreshing taste that pairs perfectly with Italian cuisine.

In addition to its flagship Italian beer, Birra Moretti also produces a range of other beer styles, such as La Rossa, a double malt beer with a rich amber color and malty sweetness, and Moretti Zero, a non-alcoholic option for those who wish to enjoy the taste of Birra Moretti without the alcohol. These offerings demonstrate the Italy beer brand's dedication to meeting the diverse tastes and preferences of its consumers.

One of the most distinctive things about Moretti is "the Golden Moustache". The mascot of this brand is usually a man with a big and bushy moustache, a feature dating back to 1940s advertising campaigns. Today, the moustache has earned sort of a cult status.

Today, Birra Moretti is owned by the Dutch brewing giant Heineken, which has helped expand the Italian beer brand's reach on a global scale with new product lines catering to modern beer drinkers. Despite its international success, Birra Moretti remains committed to preserving its Italian heritage and showcasing the country's rich brewing tradition. Through its strong connection to its roots and its unwavering focus on quality, Birra Moretti has secured a lasting legacy as a true Italian beer classic. And you know what? It's actually a favourite beer of our Business Development & Market Research Lead Elisa Arietti!

Birra Messina - The Flavours of Sicily

Birra Messina, a historic Sicilian Italian beer brand, traces its origins back to 1923 when the Messina Brewery was founded in the city of Messina, located on the northeastern tip of Sicily. The brewery's picturesque location near the coast and its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea have had a significant influence on the brand's identity and its brewing traditions. Birra Messina is a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of Sicily's Italian beer heritage.

The flagship Italian beer, Birra Messina, is a pale lager with a clear golden color and a smooth, balanced taste. Brewed with a blend of fine barley malt, select hops, and pure water from the nearby Peloritani Mountains, this refreshing lager boasts an alcohol content of 4.7% ABV. There is also a "Cristalli di Sale" version with salt crystals from the Trapani province. The unique terroir of the region, with its mineral-rich water and fertile soil, contributes to the distinct flavor profile of Birra Messina, making it an authentic representation of Sicilian craftsmanship in the world of Italian beer brands.

Over the years, the Birra Messina brand has undergone several changes in ownership and management, but it has always remained dedicated to preserving its Sicilian heritage. In 1999, the Italy beer brand was acquired by Heineken, which has helped revitalize the brewery and expand its distribution both in Italy and internationally. Despite being part of a global brewing conglomerate, Birra Messina stays true to its local roots and maintains its commitment to quality and tradition.

Birra Messina's enduring popularity is not only due to its exceptional taste but also to its iconic marketing and branding efforts. The brand's logo incorporates a sailing ship, pointing towards the Sicilian rich history of cultural exchange with the region and the whole world. This attention to detail and respect for local customs demonstrates Birra Messina's dedication to celebrating Sicilian culture and ensuring its legacy as a cherished regional Italian beer treasure.

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Birra Menabrea - A Timeless Classic From Piedmont

In 1846 an Italian entrepreneur Giuseppe Menabrea travelled to the foothills of the Italian Alps and fell in love with the town of Biella. Thus, the oldest continually producing beer brand of Italy was born as he built a brewery there. Should you travel to this picturesque town today, you will find the brewery on the same site, using the same high quality ingredients and the same traditional brewing processes. The brewery was one of the first in Italy to experiment with bottom-fermentation, which played a significant role in shaping the country's beer landscape. This pioneering spirit has earned Birra Menabrea a reputation as one of Italy's premier beer brands.

The brewery's flagship Italian beer, Birra Menabrea, is a pale lager known for its bright golden color, delicate aroma, and smooth, refreshing taste. Brewed with pure Alpine water, carefully selected barley malt, and a blend of hops, this beer boasts an alcohol content of 4.8% ABV. A little-known fact about Birra Menabrea is that the brewery uses the same yeast strain that Giuseppe Menabrea brought back from his travels to Germany in the 1800s, making it a living piece of Italian beer history. There is also a cheese called Sbirro made from this beer. Cheese and beer, could there be a better combo?

In addition to its flagship lager, Birra Menabrea offers a variety of other beer styles, including Menabrea Ambrata, a moderately bitter Vienna-style lager with a rich amber color and notes of caramel and toasted malt, and Menabrea Bionda, a light and crisp blonde lager. One interesting trivia about the brewery is that it's home to the Menabrea Maestro, a brewmaster who has been with the company for over 30 years, ensuring the quality and consistency of each batch of Italian beer.

Today, Birra Menabrea is part of the Forst Group, a leading Italian brewing company. The brewery has been able to expand its reach both nationally and internationally, bringing its celebrated Italian beers to a broader audience which has earned it a gold medal in the Chicago beer championship in 1997. Despite its growth and success, Birra Menabrea remains deeply connected to its roots, honoring the history and craftsmanship that have made it a cherished symbol of Italian brewing excellence.

Birra Angelo Poretti - Taste the World

Angelo Poretti, an ambitious and innovative brewer, founded Birrificio Angelo Poretti in 1877 in the small town of Valganna, situated in the picturesque Lombardy region of northern Italy. Poretti's passion for brewing led him to embark on a journey across Europe to learn from the best beer-making traditions of Bavaria, Bohemia, and Austria. Upon returning to Italy, he established his brewery, incorporating the knowledge and techniques he acquired during his travels. Poretti's innovative spirit and dedication to quality laid the foundation for one of Italy's most renowned beer brands.

Birra Angelo Poretti is best known for its flagship lager, a crisp and refreshing beer with a bright golden color and a balanced, smooth flavor. What else to expect given the fact the brewmasters use only fresh mountain water. With an alcohol content of 5.5% ABV, Birra Angelo Poretti is a versatile and enjoyable lager suitable for various occasions and pairings.

Over the years, Birrificio Angelo Poretti has expanded its beer offerings, introducing a range of unique and innovative products. Among these is the brewery's popular "4 Luppoli" series, which showcases different combinations of hops sourced from across the globe. The series includes Birra Poretti 4 Luppoli, an aromatic and refreshing lager, and Birra Poretti 4 Luppoli Non Filtrata, an unfiltered version with a slightly hazy appearance and a more pronounced hop character. This diverse lineup reflects the pioneering spirit that Angelo Poretti instilled in the brand, making it a standout among Italian beer brands.

Today, Birrificio Angelo Poretti is owned by the Carlsberg Group, a global beer company with a diverse portfolio of brands. Under Carlsberg's stewardship, the brewery has been able to grow and expand its reach, bringing the taste of Poretti's Italian beer to new markets around the world. Birra Angelo Poretti remains true to its founding principles of innovation, craftsmanship, and quality, ensuring that it continues to hold a special place in the world of Italian beer.

Birra Castello - The Fortress of the Italian Beer

Birra Castello is an Italian beer brand founded in 1997 in San Giorgio di Nogaro, a small town in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy. Despite being a relatively young brand compared to some of its historic counterparts, Birra Castello has quickly established itself as a symbol of quality and regional pride in the Italian beer landscape. The brewery is housed in a former military fortress, which adds a unique historical touch to its identity and provides the inspiration for its name, "Castello" meaning "castle" in Italian.

The flagship beer of Birra Castello is the Castello Premium Lager, a pale lager characterized by its bright golden color, balanced maltiness, and a subtle hop bitterness. With an alcohol content of 4.6% ABV, this Italian beer is an easy-drinking and enjoyable option for a wide range of occasions. Brewed using pure water from the Julian Alps and high-quality barley malt, Castello Premium Lager stands out as a true reflection of the Friulian terroir.

In addition to its flagship lager, Birra Castello offers a diverse range of Italian beer styles, including Castello Red, a Vienna-style lager with a deep amber color and notes of caramel and toasted malt, and Castello Pils, a classic pilsner with a crisp, hop-forward profile. One interesting piece of trivia about the brewery is that it has implemented environmentally friendly practices, such as using solar panels for energy and recycling spent grain for livestock feed, showcasing its commitment to sustainability.

As Birra Castello continues to grow, it remains committed to its roots and the values that have made it a beloved Italian beer brand. With its unique combination of regional pride, innovative brewing techniques, and a focus on quality, Birra Castello is poised to make a lasting impression in the world of Italian beer.

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Too much beer? Check out 15 most popular drink brands in Italy and other countries!

Best Craft Beers of the Bel Paese

As the craft beer movement continues to gain momentum across the globe, Italy (also called "Bel Paese" or "Beautiful Country") has emerged as a key player, with numerous artisan breweries pushing the boundaries of flavor and innovation. Italian craft beer brands offer a distinctive and diverse range of styles, showcasing the country's rich brewing traditions and commitment to excellence. In this section, we'll explore some of the finest examples of Italy's craft beer scene, celebrating the passion, creativity, and craftsmanship that define these exceptional brews.

Birra Brùton: Stoner's Ale of Italy

Birra Brùton, based in Tuscany, boldly states that it produces bottled happiness that may cause hilarity and we don't object to that.

One of their flagship beers, Brùton, is a strong, unfiltered blond ale with a fruity aroma and a pleasant, well-rounded maltiness. Another popular offering, the Stoner, is a refreshing American-style wheat beer with a hint of citrus and a smooth finish. We guess this name is what the hilarity refers to. Fun fact: For export to the USA, the brewery has to change the label in order to not anger the local authorities. How? They simply separate the letter "R" from the rest of the word. That's how it works in today's world. Despite these "obstacles", Stoner has won 7 prizes so far. Not bad for a beer that was almost banned in the biggest market of the world.

Birra Brùton's range of Italy beer options demonstrates their ability to cater to a wide variety of tastes while staying true to their Italian roots.

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Birra Amarcord: From Canvas to Keg

If you know the filmmaker Federico Fellini, you should try this beer named after one of his most famous movies. Birra Amarcord, based in the Emilia-Romagna region, offers a selection of Italian beers that are strongly connected to the Rimini region where Fellini was from. Birra Amarcord is a unique art-brewery, collaborating with artists like Tonino Guerra himself through to Milton Glaser, Garrett Oliver, Robert Niccoli and Eron on their creative journey through the world of hops and yeast. Because of this, every bottle of the Amarcord beer is a true masterpiece, reflecting the current collaborating artist's style and soul.

One of their flagship beers, the Gradisca, is a hoppy pilsner with a floral aroma and a crisp, clean finish. Another popular offering, the Mora, is a rich and smooth dark lager featuring notes of roasted malt, coffee, and chocolate. Birra Amarcord's range of Italy beer options highlights their dedication to honoring the rich brewing heritage of the region.

Birrificio di Como: Raw Art of the Beer Tube

Birrificio di Como, located near Lake Como, offers a variety of Italian beers that showcase the brewery's passion for high-quality craftsmanship.

Their flagship beer, the Como Pils, is a classic pilsner with a floral hop aroma and a crisp, clean finish. Another popular offering, the Malthus Baluba, is a Belgian-style duble with a rich, malty profile, featuring notes of dark fruit, caramel, and spices. You can find many more unique beers in their offer like Marilyn (lager), Roxanne (bock), All Black (doppel bock), Super Weiss (double-malt amber) or N.10 (amber/lager with honey).

All beers from this brewery are raw, unfiltered and unpasteurized and pair well with exquisite cuisine. Their specialty is the so-called "Beer Tube" - a device that let's you pour your own beer while sitting at a table with your friends without altering the taste of the beer in any way.

With a commitment to quality ingredients and traditional brewing techniques, Birrificio di Como has earned a strong reputation among Italy beer enthusiasts.

LoverBeer - A Love Affair with Wild Fermentation

LoverBeer, founded in 2010 by Valter Loverier, is an Italian craft brewery located in Marentino, a small town in the Piedmont region. The brewery specializes in wild and spontaneously fermented beers, drawing inspiration from Belgian Lambic and traditional Italian winemaking techniques. LoverBeer's unique approach to brewing sets it apart from other Italian craft beer brands and has garnered a dedicated following among beer aficionados.

The brewery's lineup features an array of distinctive and complex beers, often characterized by tart, fruity, and funky flavors derived from wild yeast and bacteria. Some notable offerings include BeerBrugna, a sour ale aged with - wait for it - plums (!), and D'uvaBeer, a beer-wine hybrid fermented with locally sourced grape must, resulting in a refreshing fruit taste for those of you who indulge in such combinations. LoverBeer's dedication to experimentation and the use of indigenous ingredients reflects the rich and diverse terroir of the Piedmont region.

In addition to its innovative brewing techniques, LoverBeer is committed to fostering a sense of community and connection with its customers. The brewery hosts events and tastings, often collaborating with local businesses and artisans to create a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. By merging tradition with modern creativity, LoverBeer has established itself as a unique and beloved player in the Italian craft beer scene.

BrewFist - Hits You Like a Hurricane

BrewFist, established in 2010 by Francesco Amichetti, is an Italian craft brewery based in Codogno, a small town in the Lombardy region. The brewery is known for its bold flavors, innovative brewing techniques, and a strong collaborative spirit. This approach has helped BrewFist make its mark on the Italian craft beer scene and attract a loyal following of beer enthusiasts.

The brewery's lineup includes a variety of unique and flavorful beers, often inspired by American craft brewing styles. Some popular offerings include Spaceman, an American-style IPA with assertive hop bitterness and citrus notes, and Fear, a rich and velvety imperial stout with notes of chocolate and roasted malt. BrewFist's dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing has earned it a reputation as a cutting-edge player in the Italian craft beer market.

BrewFist's collaborative spirit extends beyond its own brewery, as it frequently partners with other craft breweries and local artisans to create innovative and exciting beer experiences. Through these collaborations and its commitment to quality and bold flavors, BrewFist continues to make a lasting impact on the Italian craft beer landscape and beyond.

Birrificio Karma: It's Your Destiny

Birrificio Karma, located in the Campania region of Italy, offers a diverse range of Italian beer options that cater to various palates. The brewery's flagship beer, Radica, is a chestnut amber ale that balances sweet and bitter notes, featuring malt and chestnut flavors with a hint of caramel.

Another popular option, the Karma Citra, is an American-style IPA that showcases the bold flavors of Citra hops with a carefully selected blend of malts, creating a delightful balance of bitterness and sweetness.

Birrificio Karma's innovative approach to brewing Italy beer has earned them a loyal following and recognition in the international craft beer community and 2 prizes at the Brewery of the Year 2021 contest for their Karisma and Lemon Ale beers.

Birra Flea: A Chestnut Honey Kiss

Birra Flea, a family-owned Italian beer brand based in Umbria, offers a variety of beers that are inspired by the region's culinary heritage.

The brewery's flagship beer, Bianca, is a refreshing wheat beer brewed with coriander and orange peel, creating a citrusy and slightly spicy flavor profile. Another standout offering, the Greta, is a chestnut honey beer that expertly combines sweet and bitter notes.

Brewed using locally sourced chestnut honey, this Italian beer is a delightful homage to the region's traditional flavors. Birra Flea's diverse selection showcases their ability to balance old-world techniques with modern brewing methods, earning them a gold medal from London Beer Challenge among other accolades.

Birrificio Grado Plato: Chestnuts, Oatmeal and Carob? Really?

Birrificio Grado Plato, situated in the Piedmont region of Italy, offers a diverse range of Italian beers that emphasize quality and authenticity.

One of their most popular offerings, Strada San Felice, is a chestnut amber ale brewed with roasted chestnuts sourced from the surrounding region, resulting in a rich, full-bodied Italy beer with a subtle sweetness. Another innovative creation, Chocarrubica, is a unique oatmeal stout brewed with cocoa and carob, giving it a distinct chocolatey flavor with a hint of fruitiness.

Birrificio Grado Plato even offers very unique set of recipes or pairings on its homepage, like beermisu (a beer and tiramisu dessert) paired with Chocarrubica or a risotto with Weizentea (beer designed specifically for pairing with cold summer dishes). Get educated and grab yourselves a bottle afterward!

Birrificio Menaresta - Balance and Drinkability

Birrificio Menaresta, founded in 2013 by Simone Andreatta, is an Italian craft brewery located in Udine, a city in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. The brewery prioritizes creating balanced, approachable Italian beers that showcase the harmony between malt, hops, and yeast. This focus on drinkability and nuance has allowed Birrificio Menaresta to carve out a distinct niche in the Italian craft beer scene with their 3 distinctive product lines: Creative, Style and Barrique.

The brewery's lineup features a range of expertly crafted beers, emphasizing traditional European styles with a modern twist, often leading to wild experimental drinks. They are the inventors of beer fermented with sourdough in the end. Notable offerings include Menabrea, a crisp and refreshing Czech-style pilsner, and Rude Boy, a smooth and malty English-style brown ale. Their other innovative beers include: Blanche with ginger and pepper, Scottish ale with a cinnamon tip, Brown Ale with carob "chocolate", Special Strong Ale with prickly pears or Red Flemish aged in Laphroaig casks.

Birrificio Menaresta's commitment to balance and nuance has garnered the respect of beer enthusiasts and critics alike. As the brewery proudly says, they are dedicated more to quality and innovative drinks rather than marketing, which is one of the reasons they are not as well-known as other beer brands. But they don't mind as long as they produce quality beer beloved by their customers.

Toccalmatto - A Daring Approach to Italian Craft Beer

Birrificio Toccalmatto, founded in 2008 by Bruno Carilli, is a craft brewery based in Fidenza, a town in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. The brewery is renowned for its daring and unconventional approach to brewing, often experimenting with bold flavors, unusual ingredients, and inventive techniques. This fearless spirit has set Toccalmatto apart from its peers in the Italian craft beer market and they even call themselves "The Beer Freakhow"!

The brewery's lineup includes an array of imaginative and flavor-forward beers that defy traditional style guidelines. Some memorable offerings include Zona Cesarini, a tropical and hoppy IPA brewed with Japanese yuzu fruit, and Salty Angel, a tart and salty gose infused with Italian sea salt and coriander. Toccalmatto's adventurous approach to brewing has captivated the attention of beer enthusiasts and critics alike, earning the brewery numerous accolades and awards.

Toccalmatto continues to push the boundaries of what Italian craft beer can be. With constant research especially into hops quality and tastes, this brewery has also won several prizes like The Best Bitter in 2011, the Best Brewery of the World in 2013 or Best Brewery of Italy (by Rate Beer).

Birra del Borgo - A Journey Through Italian Beer Landscape

Birra del Borgo, founded in 2005 by Leonardo Di Vincenzo, is a craft brewery located in Borgorose, a small town in the Lazio region of Italy. The brewery's mission is to explore and celebrate the diverse beer traditions found throughout Italy, drawing inspiration from regional ingredients and local brewing techniques. This dedication to showcasing Italy's rich beer heritage has made Birra del Borgo a standout in the Italian craft beer scene.

The brewery's lineup features a wide variety of styles, each paying homage to a different aspect of Italy's beer culture. Some notable offerings include ReAle, a well-rounded American-style pale ale that showcases Italian hops, and Duchessa, a farmhouse ale brewed with ancient grains native to the Lazio region. Then there is the crazy Madame Satan with citrus and tropical fruit aromas (like mango, passion fruit and pineapple) and other oddities.

In addition to its focus on Italian beer traditions, Birra del Borgo is also committed to fostering a sense of community and connection with its customers. The brewery hosts events, tastings, and workshops that bring people together to explore and appreciate the diversity of Italian beer. Through its celebration of Italy's beer heritage and its commitment to quality and innovation, Birra del Borgo continues to play a vital role in the growth and development of the Italian craft beer movement.

Birrificio Retorto - A Symphony of Craft Flavours

Birrificio Retorto, established in 2013 by Giuseppe Losapio, is an Italian craft brewery based in Piacenza, a city in the Emilia-Romagna region. The brewery's guiding philosophy is to create a harmonious blend of flavors in each beer, striving for a symphony of taste that delights the senses. This focus on flavor harmony and balance has allowed Birrificio Retorto to carve out a unique place in the Italian craft beer market.

The brewery's lineup includes a diverse range of styles, each expertly crafted to achieve a perfect balance of flavors. Some popular offerings include Field of Mars, a tropical and citrusy American-style IPA, and Midnight Sun, a complex and malty Scotch ale. Birrificio Retorto's commitment to creating harmonious and balanced beers has earned it a loyal following among beer enthusiasts and critics.

Retorto has won the CIBA 2014 award, Birra Dell'Anno 2015 award and Guida alle birre Slow Food 2017 award, further proving its position as one of the craft/artisan beer leaders of Italy.

Baladin - Beer Stimulated by Music

Birrificio Le Baladin, founded in 1996 by Teo Musso, is a craft brewery located in Piozzo, a village in the Piedmont region of Italy. As one of the early pioneers of the Italian craft beer renaissance, Baladin has played a significant role in shaping Italy's contemporary beer culture. The brewery's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and education has made it a leading force in the Italian craft beer movement.

Baladin's lineup features a broad range of styles, many of which showcase the brewery's dedication to using local and sustainable ingredients. Some memorable offerings include Nora, an Egyptian-inspired spiced ale brewed with Italian Kamut wheat, and Super, a Belgian-style pale ale featuring notes of citrus and spice. Baladin's inventive approach to brewing has garnered numerous awards and a loyal following.

Baladin is dedicated to advancing Italian beer and trying out innovations and new approaches. Their founder and master brewer Teo Musso even came up with the company tagline: Taste the Evolution. They even have their own laboratory for testing new variations of their already almost perfect drinks. Their yeast is even stimulated by music! The idea behind this? Most living organisms perform better being stimulated by music and yeast is no different. If you're looking for some new and surprising experiences, give Baladin a try.

Birrificio del Ducato - 100% Variety

Birrificio del Ducato, founded in 2007 by Giovanni Campari, is a craft brewery located in Roncole Verdi, a village in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. The brewery's approach to craft beer involves exploring the vast spectrum of flavors and styles found in the world of brewing, while maintaining a deep respect for tradition. This dedication to flavor discovery and reverence for the past has earned Birrificio del Ducato a prominent position in the Italian craft beer scene.

The brewery's lineup features an impressive variety of styles, ranging from classic European brews to innovative and experimental creations. Standout offerings include Verdi Imperial Stout, a rich and bold stout infused with hot chili peppers, and New Morning, a farmhouse ale brewed with a blend of spices and herbs. Birrificio del Ducato's commitment to flavor exploration and tradition has earned it numerous awards and a devoted following.

Beyond its passion for brewing, Birrificio del Ducato is committed to nurturing a sense of community and connection within the craft beer industry. The brewery regularly participates in local events, tastings, and collaborations, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and shared enthusiasm for exceptional beer. Through its dedication to flavor, tradition, and community, Birrificio del Ducato continues to be a driving force in the Italian craft beer movement.

Birrificio Lambrate - A Tribute to the Spirit of Milan Beer Tradition

Birrificio Lambrate, established in 1996 by Fabio Brocca and Davide Bertolini, is a craft brewery located in Milan, in the Lombardy region of Italy. The brewery's focus on creating high-quality, locally-inspired beers has made it a beloved institution in Milan's beer scene. Birrificio Lambrate's dedication to the spirit of Milan and commitment to excellence has earned it a prominent place in the Italian craft beer world.

The brewery's lineup features a variety of styles that pay tribute to Milan and its rich history. Some notable offerings include Lambrate's flagship beer, Ghisa, a smoked stout inspired by the industrial heritage of Milan, and Montestella, a hoppy and aromatic Italian pilsner named after the city's highest hill.

Birrificio Lambrate's emphasis on local flavor and tradition has garnered praise from beer enthusiasts and critics alike. Their beer is supposed to be easy to drink and their brewers adhere to the "beers-for-pubs" philosophy. As the company proudly states, they brew their beers with passion, expertise and a touch of madness. Italian beer at its best!

Birrificio Italiano: The Little Prince of Italian Beer

Birrificio Italiano, founded in 1996 by Agostino Arioli, is a craft brewery based in Lurago Marinone, a town in the Lombardy region of Italy. The brewery's commitment to quality and tradition has made it a respected name in the Italian craft beer scene. Birrificio Italiano's focus on using the finest ingredients and honoring the art of brewing has earned it a reputation for excellence.

The brewery's lineup features a diverse range of styles, each expertly crafted using traditional brewing techniques and high-quality ingredients. Some popular offerings include Tipopils, a crisp and refreshing German-style pilsner that has become a benchmark for Italian craft pilsners, and Scires, a fruit-forward sour ale brewed with Italian cherries. Birrificio Italiano's dedication to quality and tradition has garnered a loyal following among beer enthusiasts.

Birrificio Italiano uses hops carefully and personally picked throughout Germany, France England and USA. Their portfolio is made of almost 30 distinctive beers with playful names like I'm, Vúdú or Asteroid 56013 - a reference to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s novel “The Little Prince".

L'Olmaia: A Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability

L'Olmaia, established in 2004 by Riccardo Marconi, is a craft brewery based in Montepulciano, a town in the Tuscany region of Italy. The brewery's dedication to innovation and sustainability has set it apart in the Italian craft beer scene, earning it a reputation for producing high-quality, eco-friendly beers.

The brewery's lineup features a range of beers that showcase its commitment to innovation and sustainability. Some notable offerings include La5, a crisp and refreshing Italian pilsner, and PVK, a complex and flavorful Belgian-style strong ale. L'Olmaia's emphasis on creative brewing techniques and environmentally responsible practices has garnered praise from both critics and consumers.

Beyond its dedication to sustainable brewing, L'Olmaia actively participates in initiatives that promote environmental stewardship and collaboration within the craft beer community. The brewery hosts events, workshops, and tastings to share its knowledge and passion for eco-friendly brewing practices. Through its commitment to innovation and sustainability, L'Olmaia continues to make a positive impact on the Italian craft beer scene.

Birrificio Montegioco: Herb-infused Dragon

Birrificio Montegioco, a small brewery in the Piedmont region, is known for its bold and innovative Italian beer offerings. Their Draco, a Belgian-style golden ale brewed with an infusion of local herbs, is an excellent example of the brewery's commitment to crafting unique and flavorful Italy beer.

Another standout creation, the Quarta Runa, is a saison-style beer brewed with peaches, displaying a fruity and slightly tart flavor profile that is both refreshing and complex. Birrificio Montegioco's array of unique beers showcases their dedication to experimentation and creativity in the Italy beer scene.

Birrificio Aurelio: Lazio's Pride

Birrificio Aurelio, located in Lazio, prides itself on creating high-quality Italian beers that celebrate the region's rich brewing history. Their flagship beer, the Aurelio, is a well-balanced golden ale with a malty backbone, fruity notes, and a slightly bitter licorice finish. Another standout offering, the Aurelio Rossa, is an amber ale with a rich, malty profile and hints of caramel and toffee. If you ever find yourselves in Rome, give it a try.

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The Many Tastes of Italy

As we conclude our journey through Italy's beer landscape, it is evident that the country's brewing industry is thriving, with both major beer brands and craft breweries contributing to its rich tapestry. From time-honored classics to bold and innovative creations, Italian beer brands have something for everyone, embodying the spirit of tradition and the excitement of discovery. As you continue to explore Italy's beer scene, remember to savor the unique flavors, the stories behind each brewery, and the passion that fuels this remarkable industry. Salute!

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SharpGrid is a data & tech company reinventing market research in the on-trade channel. The on-trade channel consists of POSs (points of sale) like restaurants or bars where food & beverage is bought and consumed, and is often also called HoReCa, on-premise, food service, out-of-home, gastro or immediate consumption (IC) channel, hospitality or on-licence.