What is considered the best beer in Prague. Historical and modern classification, brands and varieties of Czech beer

As many people know, the Czech Republic is famous for its local alcoholic drinks, and perhaps the most popular of them is beer. Whatever you say, they know how to brew this intoxicating drink here. Tourists rush to the capital for impressions, so I will tell you what kind of beer you can taste in Prague and where to do it.

As for the Czech Republic in general: I think you can easily find all or almost all of the listed beer brands in other cities of the country.

History and traditions

Beer in the Czech Republic was brewed by the Celts. Thus, this drink tightly entered the history of the country. In the 12th century, beer gained such popularity that almost every household was engaged in its preparation. What to hide, after visiting Prague, I myself was looking for recipes “for dummies”. Large workshops and factories appeared already in the XIV-XV centuries, and in 1842 a new type of beer was brewed in Pilsen - Pilsner, which became in some way a trendsetter for this drink.

Czech beer brands

There are about six dozen names of beer in the Czech Republic, so we will not list them all. In addition, small breweries in Prague and other cities brew the intoxicating drink and do not bottle it, which increases the number of brands, probably up to several hundred.

Most likely, many have heard or seen the following names: Bernard, Budvar, Velkopopovitsky Kozel, Zlatopramen, Krusovice, Pilsner, Staropramen. If so, then know that all this is a Czech recipe, although the products of these companies are scattered in many countries of the world. But the taste of draft beer and bottled beer is very different, as preservatives are added to the latter for long-term storage. Therefore, try to be sure to try the drink in the first form. I will describe the most interesting brands of beer, as well as my recommendations, but below.

Types of beer in the Czech Republic

At first glance, it may seem that beer, no matter how you brew, will be similar. This is a very deep delusion. In the Czech Republic, beer is divided into 11 subgroups according to the mechanism of wort production, alcohol content and fermentation variant. In addition, the wort has such an indicator as density - a value measured in any liquid in comparison with water. In fact, this is the concentration of dry substances in the initial wort, which give the drink taste. This indicator is measured as a percentage. The higher the density, the richer and brighter the taste of the beer.

Consider the classification of this intoxicating drink in order to know what we are dealing with.

By groups, beer is as follows:

1. Světlá - light, made mainly from the malt of the same name.
2. Polotmava – semi-dark, made from dark, caramel malt blended with pale malt.
3. Tmavá is dark, made without mixing with other malts.
4. Ř ezaná is a beer obtained by mixing a light and dark ready-made drink.

By subgroups, the above is divided as follows:

• stolni - table beer, brewed mainly from barley malt, with an initial wort gravity of up to 6%;
• výčepní - similar to the previous one, but with a density of 7-10%;
• ležáky - the same barley malt, but the density is 11-12%;
• special – similarly, the density is greater than or equal to 13%;
• portery – dark beer with a density of 18% or more;
• se sníženým obsahem alkoholu - beer with a specially reduced alcohol content to 1.2% by volume or less;
• pšeničná - wheat, it is also white beer, the malt of the same name should be at least a third of the volume of the drink;
• kvasnicová – beer made by adding extra wort to the finished beer;
• nealkoholická - non-alcoholic, with a strength not exceeding 0.5 °;
• ochucená - flavored, with the taste of fruits, herbs, honey or alcoholic beverages;
• z jiných obilovin - a beer with a third or more grains other than barley or wheat.

In addition, there is a classification according to the method of fermentation: top and bottom. The first one includes:

• English varieties - ale, stout;
• German - wheat, altbir;
• Belgian, for example, trappist;
• porterie.

The beer produced by the second method is called lager. It includes the following subspecies:

• pils;
• marzen;
• Bavarian beer.

I do not think that such details will be of interest to the majority, so we will leave them for aesthetes. Those who wish can easily find a description on the Internet.

There is also a classification according to the place of production.

Beer restaurants in Prague

You can drink beer in Prague at almost every step: street kiosks, bars, restaurants - all of them are located in large numbers in tourist areas.

If you are not interested in local cuisine or surroundings, then there is no big difference where to taste this drink. I will tell you about some unusual institutions.

Pivovarsky dům

This restaurant is famous for unusual types of beer: nettle, champagne or banana, cherry, vanilla. I came here to try these drinks, let's say, to broaden my horizons. I would not say with confidence that these options are very tasty, rather, peculiar. But out of pure curiosity, I would advise all interested tourists to taste such beer.

Address: Lipova 15.

Opening hours: 11.00-23.30.

Klasterni Pivovar Strahov

This restaurant is located near Strogovsky Monastery. Yes, don't be surprised, quite a few monasteries have their own breweries. Depending on the season, you can taste different drinks here. The permanent menu includes amber and dark unfiltered beer, and for the holidays, Easter and Christmas, special varieties are brewed: semi-dark Christmas and unfiltered wheat beer. Here you can also taste unusual desserts: waffles made from beer dough, as well as ice cream on this intoxicating drink.

Address: Strahovské nádvoří 301, Praha 1.

Opening hours: 10.00-22.00.

Prvni Pivni Tramway

This is an old tram depot, stylized as a trailer of the same type of transport. It is very cozy and interesting here. Rare varieties of real Czech beer are served in this restaurant, for example, Conrad Výčepní, Baronka Premium, Permon Xmas Ale and others.

Address: Na Chodovci 1 .

Opening hours: 17.00-00.00.

Vytopna

In the city center, right on Wenceslas Square, next to the building of the National Museum, there is an interesting beer depot. This is a whole show: a train with trailers drives around the hall and delivers drinks to the tables.

That is, a waiter comes up to you to order, writes down what and in what quantity you need to bring to which table. And then glasses and bottles drive up along the ring road and stop near you. True, in the evening it can be difficult to get into this institution: all places can be occupied. Therefore, you need to either come during the day or book a table in advance. Be sure to visit this establishment! Many tourists take pictures and videos of unusual restaurant waiters-deliveries. Needless to say, the idea is very original.

Address: Palác Fénix, Václavské nám. 802/56, 110 00 Praha - Nové Město.

Opening hours: 11.00-01.00 on Fridays and Saturdays, 11.00-00.00 on other days.

The best brands of beer according to the author

Tastes and preferences, as the saying goes, are different for everyone. But if you do not know where to start, I dare to give my recommendations and short descriptions.

Bernard

This brand has about 12 types of beer. I especially liked JANTAROVÝ LEŽÁK (lager), ČERNÝ LEŽÁK (Black lager). Ležáky, aka lager, is, as I said, a type of bottom-fermented beer. It is characterized by the fact that the final ripening of the drink occurs during storage. In addition to tasty alcoholic beer, the company produces non-alcoholic semi-dark, light, as well as with plum and cherry flavors. I have not tried the fruit flavors of this particular manufacturer. But similar alcoholic versions of another brand seemed very tasty to me. In addition, some bottles have a reclosable stopper.

Budweiser Budvar

The factory has been producing beer since 1895, but it has been brewed in České Budějovice for about 750 years. There are both dark and light lagers. And for true connoisseurs, they produce Kroužkovaný ležák (ringed). This type of beer is brewed in the same way as the classic one: wort is made, hops and yeast are added to it, after which the fermentation process begins. Since Budweiser is a lager, all beer is sent to maturation in special rooms. But for the production of Kroužkovaný ležák, a peculiarity appears: when filling kegs (metal containers for transporting or storing beer), another portion of new yeast and hop extract are added. Because of this, the drink ripens directly in the container. And for lovers of stronger drinks, there is a special beer with a strength of 7.6 °.

Velkopopovický Kozel

It is the owner of the honorary sign "Czech beer" due to the preservation of traditions and production technologies. Do not be surprised, not all local breweries have received such an honor. This manufacturer produces a drink of three types: light, semi-dark, dark and premium. I heard from more than one person that this beer is the most delicious of those that are produced in Russia.

Krusovice

This is one of the oldest breweries in the Czech Republic, producing products from around the beginning of the 16th century. The company produces the following types of beer:

• Krušovická 10°;
• Krušovická 12°;
• Černe (black);
• Mušketýr (musketeer);
• Malvaz (semi-dark);
• Krušovice Imperial (imperial);
• Krušovice Jubilejní Ležák (anniversary lager);
• Krušovice Pšeničné (wheat).

I drove past the Kruszowice factories, located near the huge barley fields - it looks very impressive.

Master

This is a dark, sweet, very dense beer. As it was written on the Internet, it is sold in many places in Prague, but personally I had to try hard to find it. Until recently, the company was proud of the fact that beer is served only on tap, in special glasses with a volume of 0.4 liters. This fact made the drink more unique and prestigious. But I definitely saw bottles of Master in the customs-free zone of the airport. Although, perhaps, this exception is made specifically for those leaving.

Pilsner Urquell

This is a light, very popular beer. Under this trade name, many summer cafes and pubs are open in Prague. The beer of this brand is characterized by a pronounced hop taste, as well as fruit tones.

Staropramen

Thanks to a special type of yeast, the beer has an unusual aroma and fresh taste. In addition, after pouring into glasses, the drink holds a dense foam cap. This company produces quite a lot of types of drink:

How much is a beer in Prague

In the Czech Republic, beer sometimes costs even less than mineral water, which makes this country even more popular for tourists. In restaurants and bars, half a liter of draft beer will cost you 30-35 CZK. And in breweries with a locally produced drink a little more expensive - 40-50 kroons.

In stores, prices usually vary more. I saw the cheapest beer for 8 crowns, even at the current rate it's just a penny. The upper limit can reach even a hundred crowns, because imported varieties are also brought to the Czech Republic, as well as to other countries: London, Belgian, German and others.

Beer in Prague can be drunk not only in pubs and restaurants, but also at home, having bought it in advance in a store. The intoxicating drink is sold in glass bottles and aluminum cans. Interestingly, glass containers can be handed over. The price tag shows two prices: the beer itself and a deposit, that is, the cost of packaging.

In large supermarkets, for example, Kaufland, Albert, there are special conveyors for receiving bottles. You can bring an empty container there, put it on a tape, and the automatic system will determine whether such a form is accepted. As a result, you print out a check, and they can pay part of the bill in this supermarket. For example, they handed over bottles for 20 Czech crowns, and the amount of purchases came out for 200 crowns. By presenting a check, you pay only 280 kroons. It is not possible to convert the amount for returned bottles into cash. It is better to buy something right away, as several times I forgot to present a check at the checkout.

Excursions

Many breweries offer guided tours that include drink tastings.

There are various options for visiting: organized and not. The former arrange special excursion companies, whose representatives can be found in places where tourists gather: on the Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, Kampa Island and others. At the appointed time, you and other participants are picked up by a bus and taken straight to the factory, and after the event it is delivered back. The cost, of course, is not small, about a thousand Czech crowns, but for those who are interested it should be very interesting. The advantage of this type of excursion is that you can get a Russian-speaking guide.

You can find "cultural-beer" excursions. This happens when combining visits to attractions and breweries:

• castle Konopiste and Velke Popovice;
• and the Krusovice brewery;
• Křivoklát Castle and lunch at the Berounsky bear brewery and so on. There are quite a lot of similar combinations, I will not list them all.

In addition to searching for special excursion tents, you can use the following options:

• Many hotels organize tours that you can join without even staying there. If you already live in one of these, it is enough to make an agreement at the front desk. You can also go to the nearest hotels or hotels in the city center and ask there. Having visited a dozen or less places, I think you will find a suitable option.
• The internet is where you can find literally everything.

Unorganized excursions are a more economical option. Breweries are usually located in or near cities, which are served by buses or trains. A transport ticket can be purchased for a hundred crowns. Further, single tourists are collected three times a day in groups according to languages: Czech, English, German. Such an excursion will cost 300-500 kroons, a more accurate price depends on the factory and the amount of beer being tasted.

How do people drink beer in the Czech Republic?

Of course, under amazing cold or hot dishes. But do not confuse, beer is not eaten in the Czech Republic, as it has already absorbed all the essentials. The taste of a hoppy drink should be enjoyed. That is, the food here is consumed on its own, and not in addition to beer.

In addition to the fact that this drink can be consumed in the traditional way, there are some original options. So, for example, some Czechs wash down the local Becherovka liqueur with light beers. In a similar way, you can use Fernet Stock, Slivovice and other strong alcohol. But for this, not large piles are used, but special small glasses with a capacity of 20 ml.

There are also options to add various alcohols directly to a beer mug. So "throwing" a stack of mint liqueur into a glass, you get a Magic Eye cocktail. But, as people who have tried it say, the consequences in the morning may not be the most pleasant.

Have something to add?

Czech beer is not just one of the variations of the intoxicating drink popular all over the world, but a real national brand, a name controlled by origin. Despite the fact that there are many breweries operating in the Czech Republic, not all of them produce real “Czech beer”: in 2013, only 16 productions could boast of such a privilege.

To receive the coveted status, the drink must:

• issued in the Czech Republic;
• pass a rigorous audit for compliance with all sorts of norms, criteria and local traditions, from color to density.

Historical reference. The Celts, who lived in Europe thousands of years ago, knew how to brew beer, the results of archaeological excavations testify to this, but it is still impossible to consider this drink as the forerunner of Czech brewing. The official date for the start of hop processing is 1088 - it was then that King Vratislav II handed over several bags of this plant to one of the monasteries with an order to make beer, the records were preserved in the personal correspondence of the monarch. However, it is reliably known that beer was brewed in the Břevnov Monastery starting from 993.

King Vratislav II - the "father" of Czech brewing

Breweries appeared a little later - in 1118 (first in the town of Brno, then in Pilsen and Ceske Budejovice), and only three centuries later, small-town production grew into large factories.

In 1842, the new beer Pilsner (Pilsner) appeared - a bottom-fermented lager that had a characteristic mild taste with hoppy bitterness, thick foam and a light golden color. The drink began a triumphal march across Europe, it was thanks to him that the world got acquainted with Czech beer. Today, the term "Pilsner" refers both to a specific brand and as a general name for Czech pale lagers.

Pilsner - the brand that gave the name to the whole variety

The First World War brought an economic crisis to Europe, many breweries could not survive the troubled times and closed. Then the Czech Republic was part of the socialist camp for a long time, which also did not contribute to the development of the country's unique style. However, local brewers carefully preserved old traditions and even brewed beer according to family recipes, neglecting unified prescriptions.

Average characteristics. Almost all varieties produced in the Czech Republic belong to the pale lager of the Pilsner type. The color of the drink varies from light gold to almost black, and the strength is from 3 to 9 turns, but not all products of Czech breweries fit into this framework.

Types of Czech beer

Type of malt:

• light;
• dark;
• semi-dark;
• chopped (blend).

Taste:

1. From barley malt:

• table (density<6%);
• vicepni (density 7-10%);
• sun loungers (density 11-12%);
• special grades (density >13%);
• porters (density >18%);

2. Wheat (not less than 33% wheat malt);

3. Non-alcoholic (<0,5%) или с пониженным содержанием алкоголя (<1,2%);

4. Fermentation (wort is added to the already prepared drink);

5. Flavored (with the taste of fruits, herbs, spices, honey, etc.);

6. From other grains (at least 33% non-barley and non-wheat malt).

By region of production:

• České Budějovice. Brewing in this city has been developing since the 13th century, the world's oldest Budweiser is produced here. One hundred years after the appearance of the Czech brand in the United States, they launched the production of a beer with the same name, which led to endless disputes over the right to the name, so in America this Czech beer is sold under the Czechvar brand.
• Pilsen. Pilsner's birthplace. In 1842, a local brewery hired Joseph Groll, a German brewer with a background in the art of lager brewing. Under the guidance of a new master, it was possible to obtain a light golden light alcoholic drink that has no analogues in the world.
• Prague. The history of Czech brewing is closely connected with the activities of monasteries in the country's capital and its environs.
• Brno and South Moravia. This region is better known for its wine-making traditions, but beer is also not forgotten here, and since the 2000s there has been a real boom in mini-breweries with craft varieties.

Beer map of the Czech Republic

Popular brands of Czech beer

Pilsner Urquell ("original Pilsner") - the very first Pilsner beer, which gave rise to a new style of brewing. The intoxicating drink has fruity notes in the "bouquet" and a deep aroma.

Budweiser Budvar (Budweiser Budvar) - do not confuse with the American "Budweiser", one of the oldest and most popular varieties.

Velkopopovicky Kozel (Velkopopovitsky Kozel) - produced since 1874, the dark variation of the brand is famous for its chocolate-fruity flavor.

Gambrinus (Gambrinus) - named after the king of Flanders, who became famous for his success in the field of brewing.

Radegast (Radegast) - produced since 1970, one of the most popular Czech beer brands in Europe.

Staropramen (Staropramen) - the second largest beer production in the Czech Republic, there are non-alcoholic varieties.

Krušovice (Krušovice) - produced in several "performances", the dark variety with a caramel-bitter flavor is considered the most delicious.

How people drink beer in the Czech Republic

The Czechs love and know how to drink their national intoxicating drink. They argue that you can feel the real taste of beer only on the third mug, and it should be drained in three sips: first, drink half of the entire volume at once, then half of the remaining drink, and, finally, “finish off” the last quarter.

The following snacks are especially popular:

• cheese plate;
• cheese, fish, onion and oil salad;
• pickled cheese with garlic;
• cold cuts;
• raw salmon mince;
• bread;
• salted or pickled fish;
• meat pudding.

Meat snacks are the most popular

If you want something hot, the Czechs serve fried cheese, vegetable dishes, risotto to the table, but the classic dish of Czech cuisine remains out of competition - a baked pork leg.

It is known that beer in the Czech Republic is the basis of national culture. In any case, it is difficult to imagine that anyone would spend their leisure time here without drinking this intoxicating drink. Beer bars in Prague are the best in the world. So think not only residents of the city, but also tourists.

It is impossible to visit the capital of the Czech Republic and not appreciate all the advantages of its legendary drink. Beer is everywhere here - Prague offers it in the widest range. Everyone here drinks a drink made from hops at any time of the day or night. Its connoisseurs have long established that Czech beer, which is offered to guests by the best beer houses in Prague, never gives you a headache in the morning.

No excursion is complete without visiting the main sights of the capital. Guidebooks vying with each other offer tourists to visit the best beer houses in Prague to feel the very nature of the city. We can say that the history of the Czech capital keeps pace with the history of the famous drink. The article offers an overview of the best pubs in Prague.

Story

The first brewery was opened by the Czechs in 1087. And now, for almost a thousand years, the Czech intoxicating drink personifies calmness, regularity, well-being and material prosperity of life in the country. It is known that the patron saint of brewers is St. Vaclav. When opening a new production or starting the production of a new variety, the masters turned to him with a prayer or asked for blessings.

In the XIII-XV centuries, Czech brewers experienced the most difficult times. Beer became so popular that the government had to make a decision that it was forbidden to build distilleries less than a mile apart. Violation of this decree was severely punished. Brewers producing low-quality products were also punished. Tastings of various types of beer were regularly held. If the drink of one or another manufacturer did not meet the requirements of the tasters, it was poured on the square, and the "author" was beaten with rods.

Modernity

The past centuries have not taken away from beer its honorary status as a symbol of the Czech Republic. In the capital of the country, bars and restaurants can be seen on every corner. Their number is so great that a guidebook presenting the best pubs is a must. Its presence will help to orient both an inexperienced traveler and an experienced tourist.

in Prague: ranking of the best

As beer connoisseurs joke, there are as many beer restaurants and bars in the Czech capital as there are bubbles in a glass with this intoxicating drink. It is considered a completely thankless task to argue about which of the establishments are the best. Beer bars in Prague are presented in a wide variety. Some have a long history behind them, while others have been opened not so long ago. Some bars specialize in a particular one, while in other places, visitors are offered dozens of varieties and types of intoxicating drink. But almost everyone has a certain zest that distinguishes it from competitors.

What are the best establishments in the Czech capital? Beer Prague, which are worth paying attention to, are presented later in the article. The main selection criteria is the availability of excellent quality beer in the bar, as well as an unusual and somewhat remarkable atmosphere.

"At Fleck" (restaurant-brewery)

The reviews unanimously place this institution in the TOP-8 of the list of "Best beer in Prague". "U Fleck" is the most famous Prague brewery, founded in the 15th century. Visitors here are offered an exclusive thick dark beer, distinguished by the taste of caramel. According to numerous reviews, it is simply impossible to remain indifferent to this drink!

The halls in the restaurant surprise not only with a stylish interior, but also with “talking” names: “Suitcase”, “Liver Sausage”, “Big”, etc. In addition to beer, guests can taste amazingly delicious Czech cuisine. An orchestra plays in the garden. A visit to the restaurant guarantees an unforgettable experience. Rating of the institution, according to the results of polls: eighth place in the top eight beer houses in Prague.

"At Saint Thomas" (pub)

This pub was opened in 1352 by the Augustinian monks. It became a place for tasting the drink that they also produced. The pub is a dark vaulted cellar, the history of which is unusually interesting. It was here that many prominent figures of the Czech Republic liked to drink beer, sing songs and communicate. For centuries, this pub has been the center of "progressive thought". The magic of the basement makes guests come back here again and again.

In the pub "At Thomas" you should definitely order a mug of "Brannik" - experienced visitors advise. The taste and aroma of the drink will allow you to fully experience the mysterious and exciting atmosphere of the pub. According to the results of independent polls, the institution is in seventh place in the ranking.

In the beer "At the Chalice"

You can visit this beer-restaurant without even visiting Prague. How? It is enough to read "The Adventures of the Good Soldier Schweik", the immortal novel by J. Hasek. Music, an oak table, a portrait of Franz Joseph I, antique furniture and, of course, the presence of excellent beer - all this is described in the famous classic. This pub is deservedly considered a tourist one - indigenous people rarely come here because of the high cost of the place. Pivnaya ranks sixth in the ranking of independent polls.

"At the black ox"

And in this pub, on the contrary, there are almost no foreigners. But you should definitely come here, experienced tourists advise, in order to feel the spirit of ancient Prague. Here you can order a half-liter mug of "Smichovsky" or other beer, sit at one of the long tables of the institution and fully enjoy the comfort and peace of the pub. Here you can feel that time has stopped and you are in the past. The institution occupies the fifth place in the rating.

"At the Golden Tiger"

This place is famous, among other things, for its visitors. In 1994, the restaurant was visited by Vaclav Havel and Bill Clinton. Unfortunately, history is silent about what exactly prominent statesmen ate, drank and discussed. But it is known that after their meeting in an institution that is deservedly classified as “The best beer pubs in Prague”, political relations between the countries became more fruitful. But in the pub and still find a free place is quite problematic.

When visiting Prague, the famous Luciano Pavarotti did not miss the opportunity to drink Pilsner beer at the Golden Tiger. Due to the fact that the institution enjoys the favor of famous people, it is better to book places here in advance. Rumor has it that at one of the local long tables you can meet yourself

Beginners are advised to order a mug of Urquell Pilsen when they come to the pub. According to reviews, this drink is distinguished by exceptional taste qualities that amaze the imagination. In the ranking of independent polls, the institution is in fourth place.

"The Brewery House"

Once upon a time, only a select few knew about the Brewery House. Over the past few years, the institution has gained great popularity among beer lovers. The owners of this brewery are constantly taking care to make the assortment more diverse and surprise guests with some new products.

The most unusual are the tastes of "cave beer" and champagne beer. The only drawback is the constant overcrowding of the institution - you can find free places here only after ten in the evening. Independent reviews give the institution the third place in the ranking.

"At the Maecenas" (restaurant-beer house)

The opportunity to visit the restaurant "At the Patron" for quite a long time was the privilege of the elite. It is known that among the guests of honor were Tycho Brahe, Willy Brandt, Princess Diana, Alexander Dubcek, as well as many high-ranking officials of Germany and Czechoslovakia.

Today, anyone can visit a pub. Reviews indicate that the service in the institution is brought to perfection. The waiters here will definitely offer the guest a bittersweet Budweiser, known since the time of Emperor Ferdinand I. This malt drink with a sweet spicy aroma is listed in the Guinness Book of Records. In the ranking, the institution ranks second.

In the restaurant-beer house "At the Old Lady"

The leader of the rating is precisely this institution - a favorite vacation spot for the inhabitants of Prague. Foreigners rarely come here. The exception is those tourists who have Czech friends - the townspeople can bring them to this simple, inexpensive, cozy pub or recommend visiting it on their own. The establishment is furnished with great taste, taking into account all the rules for drinking intoxicating drink.

Beer is poured here so that foam is formed, which, with its density, does not allow the pencil to fall. The establishment has a bar and an excellent restaurant. Usually lovers of Krusovice, Velvet, light Staropramen, Gambrinus come here. Favorite drinks are served here: venison with lingonberry sauce, potato dumplings, pork and stewed cabbage. In the evenings, the restaurant plays music, to which visitors like to dance. Among other things, the establishment "At the Old Lady" is also a hotel where you can always book a room.

About the benefits of beer baths

In the Czech Republic, beer is not only drunk. They also bathe in it! A tourist in the Czech capital can cheer up not only with a traditional mug of intoxicating drink, but also with foamy SPA treatments, which combine the internal and external use of beer.

In addition to the fact that many consider beer baths to be great entertainment, they are also a wonderful means of prolonging youth and restoring beauty. They are also believed to have powerful healing effects. The treatment complex includes, in addition to the beer baths themselves, a relaxing massage, cosmetic wraps and, of course, the use of a foamy drink as a pleasant addition to therapy.

How does this happen?

An oak barrel is filled with a heated hop mixture consisting of natural beer extract (beer malts). The patient spends 20 minutes in this font. During this time, the muscles relax, the joints warm up, the biorhythms of the internal organs are restored, the skin is cleansed, and the hair and nails are strengthened. A full course of the described relaxation significantly improves immunity.

Beer baths in Prague: where is the best?

Beer therapy was founded by Roman Wokaty, a specialist in balneology and physiotherapy from Marianske Lazne. It was possible to implement his SPA project in 2006 at the Khodovar brewery. Both Czechs and foreign tourists were very pleased with the new type of health improvement. The method quickly spread throughout the Czech Republic. You can improve your health with a beer bath in Prague in several spas, each of which has a special zest that attracts guests:

• In the spa center "Pivni Lazni" BBB on the street. Masho, 5, in the Old Town. In carrying out the procedures, the patented Bier.Bottich.Bad technology is used here, which is accompanied by a hydromassage in a bath with a whirlpool design. Price of the procedure: 1368 kroons.
• In the beer SPA center "Bernard" (the center of Prague, Tin st., 644/10). In addition to swimming, the relaxation complex also includes rest in a specially heated bed. As a souvenir, guests are given a bottle of "Bernard", during the session you can drink an unlimited amount of foamy drink. Price of the procedure: 2780 kroons.
• In the beer baths Spa Beerland, which are located on the street. Zitna, 658/9. Here guests are offered to swim in oak tubs with a volume of a thousand liters, drink Krusovice beer and relax by the fireplace. Price of the procedure: 1600 CZK.
• In Lazne Pramen (Dejvickb st. 255/18). Here, water t = 35-38 degrees is poured into a 1000-liter larch or royal oak hydromassage bathtub, dark beer, brewer's yeast and crushed natural components of selected malt and hop varieties are added, which are mixed in a certain proportion. Price of the procedure: 1600 CZK.

Conclusion

Foamy drink in the Czech capital is sold everywhere. In a huge number of establishments in the city, you can taste the famous, excellent-tasting Czech beer. Every Prague pub is different, each with its own history, its own customs, its own charm, its own excellent brand of beer and original ways of serving it. And without a doubt, each of the drinking establishments in the Czech capital has its own fans who speak of it as the best Prague pub.

Czech beer is not just a drink, but a national brand known throughout the world. So much so that the drink and the name of the country are often associated as one. Many tourists, going to the Czech Republic, say: "I'm going to go have a beer." And only then do they remember the desire to see the Charles Bridge or Vyshegrad.

It is not for nothing that in the Czech Republic at the state level they carefully protect beer as a matter of national pride. To receive the status of "real Czech", the drink must:

• produced exclusively in the Czech Republic;
• pass a multi-stage audit for compliance with various criteria and standards.

Why Czech beer is so popular

The popularity of Czech beer, in addition to a rich history and well-thought-out advertising, was brought by three main factors:

Drink quality.

Czechs don't like to experiment with their beers. The recipes for its preparation have been tested for centuries, and, as you know, they do not look for good from good. The ingredients used also contribute to the high quality: the purest water and excellent quality hops. It is believed that there are four areas in the world where the highest quality hops are grown, containing the least bitterness. Three of them are in Germany, one is in the Czech Republic. Its historical center is the town of Zatec. 80 percent of all Czech beer is made from Žatec hops.

The use of only high-quality raw materials bears fruit. Many of those who have visited the Czech Republic note that even after solidly accepted doses of local beer, there is no hangover.

Price.

In no way inferior in quality to German beer, Czech beer is 2-3 times cheaper. The cost of a mug of beer in a cafe or even an average restaurant, in terms of our money, is from 60-70 rubles. Therefore, the same Germans or the British are happy to go to the Czech Republic to enjoy their favorite foamy drink to their heart's content.

Diversity.

In addition to well-known brands, in the Czech Republic you can taste completely unique beer that is not found anywhere else. Many beer restaurants brew their own signature drink, so the Czech Republic is a real paradise for beer gourmets and lovers of everything unusual.

Historical reference

The intoxicating drink on the territory of modern Czech Republic was brewed by the ancient Celts, but the first written mention of it dates back to 1088. Then Prince Břetislav donated several sacks of hops for brewing beer to the Vyshegrad monks. Exactly thirty years later, chronicles mention the first real brewery built in Brno. And the first laws on beer and the first workshops of brewers appeared in the XIII century.

In the 18th century, the then-famous brewer Ondřej Poupe founded the first European Brewery School. But the key year for local beer was 1842. Brewer Josef Groll, who arrived in Pilsen from Bavaria, brewed a new type of beer called "Pilsner" - a lager with a mild taste, golden color and thick foam. This beer quickly spread to Europe and from there to America. This is how Czech beer became world famous.

The two world wars and the economic depression between these tragic milestones led to the ruin of many breweries in the Czech Republic. The surviving productions, which did not stop work even in the era of socialism, had no funds for modernization and continued to brew beer using traditional methods. Every cloud has a silver lining: it is this factor that has contributed to the preservation of the high quality of Czech beer.

Varieties, types and brands of Czech beer

The vast majority of varieties produced in the Czech Republic are pale lager. The color of the beer varies from light golden to almost black, the strength is from 3 to 8.5 degrees. Depending on the components used, taste, density and region of production, Czech beer is divided into three types:

The type of malt.

Beer can be light, dark, semi-dark and sliced ​​(blended).

According to the density and the raw material used.

• From barley malt: table (density up to 6%); vicepni (density 7-10%); sunbeds (density 11-12%); special grades (with a density of more than 13%); porters (more than 18% density);
• Wheat with at least 30% wheat malt.
• Fermentation, when the wort is added to an already prepared drink.
• Flavored - with the taste of honey, fruits, spices, herbs.
• Non-alcoholic.

By region of production:

• Pilsen. Pilsner's birthplace.
• České Budějovice. It produces the famous "Budweiser" - a brand that was later shamelessly stolen by the Americans.
• Brno and South Moravia. At the beginning of this century, there was a real boom in the region with the opening of microbreweries selling craft beers.
• Prague. The medieval monks of the monasteries of the capital and its environs made a significant contribution to the development of Czech brewing.

The most popular brands of Czech beer:

• Gambrinus. It was named after the king of Flanders, who encouraged the development of brewing.
• Pilsner Urquell. The very first Pilsner beer, with fruity notes and a deep aroma.
• Velkopopovicky Kozel, produced since 1874. The dark version, which has a chocolate-fruity flavor, is especially popular.
• Budweiser Budvar is one of the oldest beers.
• Staropramen is the second largest beer production in the Czech Republic.
• Krušovice - produced in several versions. The most delicious is considered dark beer, which has a caramel-bitter aftertaste.
• Radegast. Produced since 1970, the brand is very popular in Europe.

Where to buy Czech beer in Moscow

It's not a problem. Bottled and canned Czech beer can be bought at a specialized alcohol store or even a supermarket. Since the most popular brands of Czech beer are also produced in Russia, you should pay attention to the country of origin. In addition, if the beer does not have a border shelf life, then the cost of beer produced in the Czech Republic starts at our outlets from 130 rubles per 0.5 liter.

How people drink beer in the Czech Republic

The Czechs are very fond of and know how to drink the national intoxicating drink. Snack beer with any dishes of traditional Czech cuisine. But there are also some of my favorites:

• Baked pork leg (Pečené vepřové koleno) with potato dumplings and stewed cabbage.
• Stuffed hermeline. This is an analogue of the famous Camembert cheese. Before serving, the head of cheese is cut into 2 parts. Stuffed with hot spices and left to mature in vinegar with onion, pepper and oil. Served with black bread, onion rings and small hot peppers.
• Drowners. These are sausages in a natural casing, which are kept in a spicy marinade with vinegar, garlic and onions for three days.

Also popular:

• meat pudding;
• cold cuts;
• soup in bread;
• cheese plate;
• raw salmon mince;
• salad of fish, cheese, onions and butter;
• salted or pickled fish;
• pickled cheese with garlic.

Fans of a refreshing and slightly heady foamy drink rightly consider Czech beer to be one of the best produced in the world. Yes, in fact, it is from here that it arises, about which there is historical evidence.

It is believed that even before our era, the Celts brewed beer on the territory of modern Czech Republic, although it is impossible today to say exactly what this drink was. But since the traditions, apparently, remained, then, judging by the chronicle evidence, in the first millennium of our era, beer was brewed from wheat in the Czech Republic.

There is also a written evidence from 1088 about the gift of several sacks of hops to the Vyshegrad monks by Prince Břetislav for making beer. Until the 13th century, foam was brewed in almost every house, and then legislative decrees began to appear, granting such a right only to monks.

Later, workshop brewers appeared and in the XIV-XV centuries the first breweries were built, some of which still function today.

Since 1842, the whole world has learned about Czech beer. In the city of Pilsen, a brewer from Bavaria brewed pilsner, a beer of a new, at that time, revolutionary type.

A serious decline in brewing in the Czech Republic occurred during the First World War, then production did not recover until the Second World War. And after it, with the formation of Czechoslovakia, when everything was nationalized, no money was invested in modernization, making foam the old fashioned way.

Which, by the way, only did him good. Czech beer was also known in the USSR, but few people tried it. With the return to capitalism, the Czechs launched brewing at full speed. And here the preservation of traditions became the basis for a new surge in popularity.

Today there are more than 250 breweries in the Czech Republic.

Reference. According to statistics, the consumption of foam per capita is the highest in the world.

The average Czech drinks 132 liters of beer a year! Russia in this rating is already in 26th place.

What is Czech beer?

According to the legislation of the country, a drink made only from malt, hops and water has the right to be called Czech. No other ingredients are allowed. The mark (České pivo) has the right to put on the labels of their drink only companies that have passed a strict audit and proved that their products are of the highest quality. This is a geographical mark that proves that you are buying a natural product, brewed according to all the canons.

Real "marked" Czech should have a rich taste with a slight bitterness, not have third-party flavors, be made only from high-quality raw materials, according to technology.

This sign is only on the labels of beer made in the Czech Republic itself. It is forbidden to install it at other factories located outside the country and owned by Czech companies. Picking up a bottle with the inscription České pivo, you can be sure that the drink does not contain dyes, additives or preservatives.

Many young and small companies do not disdain additives that speed up the manufacturing process and extend the shelf life, but they also have no right to put the mentioned mark on their products.

The most famous brands

1. Budějovický Budvar (famous) - made in České Budějovice, exported to more than 60 countries.
2. Pilsner Urquell (Pilsner Urquell) is a light pilsner produced since 1842 by a brewery in the city of Pilsen. The peculiarity is in the characteristic bitter aftertaste, thanks to the Bohemian hop variety Saatz.
3. Velkopopovický Kozel (Velkopopovitsky Kozel) - popular with Russian beer lovers. Produced since 1874 in the village of Velké Popovice. The goat is the symbol of the brewery.
4. Staropramen (Staropramen) - among the most popular Czech brands. Produced in Prague (brewery Smichov) for two centuries.
5. Černá Hora (Black Mountain) is a drink from České Budějovice.
6. Gambrinus (Gambrinus) - one of the most popular pilsners on the market, "comes" from the beer capital of the Czech Republic - the city of Pilsen.
7. Krušovice (Krushovice) - also a famous brand, the recipe originates in 1581. Produced in the village of Krusovice.
8. Master (Master) - this fortified beer is brewed in the village of Velké Popovice.
9. Starobrno (Starobrno) - from the city of Brno. The brewery is almost seven centuries old (the first foam was released in 1325)!
10. Radegast (Radegast) is a relatively young brand (1970) from the Moravian city of Frydek-Mistek.

Classification of Czech beer

In order not to get confused in the markings on bottles from Czech brewers, you need to know a little about the features of its classification.

Density

This is one of the most significant classification points.

On the labels of bottles and in the restaurant menu in the Czech Republic, you may encounter incomprehensible numbers.

This is the original density of the beer wort. What do these numbers mean?

• 10° (Desitka). Beer contains wort primary extract not less than 10%. Mature has a fortress of 3 - 4.3%. He has a maturation cycle of 25-35 days;
• 12° (Dvanáctka) - denser - about 12%, and stronger 4.5 - 5%. Ripening takes about 90 days.

There is also 8° (low extractive, watery), and 18° thick and dense.

by color

The second classification is based on the color of the drink. Accepted species:

1. Light (Světlé) is brewed from pale malt and has a straw to light amber color.
2. Semi-dark (Polotmavé) is made from roasted, as well as caramel malt, mixed with light malt. Color - from amber to light brown.
3. Dark, up to black (Tmavé) - brewed from malt of various degrees of roasting. It can be dark brown, red and even black.
4. Sliced ​​(Řezané) is not exactly a type, but rather an original way of serving. In the Czech Republic, a restaurant can mix light with dark, and in such a way that the boundary between the layers is clearly visible.

By type of fermentation

Czech brewers divide their beer according to production methods:

• bottom fermentation (worldwide name -). It is light and dark. Fermentation takes place at a temperature of 4-9°C. Use bottom-fermenting yeast (Saccharomyces uvarum, Saccharomyces carlsbergensis);
• top fermentation involves higher temperatures: 15 - 25°C. This method is used to produce porter, ale, stout;
• pils is also created by the bottom fermentation method, however, this method has its own characteristics, many of which are known only to specialists. The Czechs consider the pilsner an integral part of their beer tradition and a kind of national achievement. The most famous Czech pilsner is Urkwell. Light, having a full rich taste, in which softness with a slight bitterness is clearly felt.

Division into groups

All beer produced in the Czech Republic is divided into 11 groups. They differ in the way the wort is prepared, as well as the strength.

1. Stolni, that is, a dining room. It is predominantly brewed from barley malt, it is light, slightly watery, with an initial wort gravity of less than 7%.
2. Vycepni. The Vycherpni group consists of drinks with an initial density of barley wort of 7-10%.
3. Ležák is predominantly brewed from barley malt and has a gravity of 11-12%.
4. Specials. Special, with barley malt. Density 13% and above.
5. Porter (porter) - dark, mostly barley. Density 18% or more.
6. Beer se sníženým obsahem alkoholu, that is, having a low alcohol content - no more than 1.2%.
7. Nealkoholické (non-alcoholic). The percentage of alcohol in it is not more than 0.5%.
8. Pšeničné - brewed from wheat malt, which is at least a third in the wort.
9. Kvasnicové - yeast. After maturation, active yeast (yeast must) is added to it. The drink contains a high content of B vitamins.
10. Ochucené (flavoured). Various fruit concentrates, herbs, honey, flavorings or alcoholic beverages are added to it. Available in hemp, mint, blackcurrant, citrus flavors. Fortress 1.5 - 15%.
11. Z jinych obilovin. From a mixture of malts, a third of which are not barley and wheat, but other grains (oats, corn, millet, etc.).

In addition to the above varieties, there is foamy with different taste characteristics and fortified. In total, more than 120 Czech breweries have 550 brands for different tastes and budgets.

How do people drink beer in the Czech Republic?

This country has its own beer etiquette.

• A man enters the pub first to protect his lady, to show that she did not come alone. Well, in which case, be the first to get a flying mug.
• It is customary, having come with a large company, to first send one, ask if there are places.
• Beer is not accepted for snacking. Maximum - nuts / chips, and then everyone will immediately understand that you are not local.
• It's okay to have a beer at lunchtime on a workday. From 12 o'clock it is sold everywhere and is not considered an alcoholic drink.
• Many beer gardens have a "ppm counter". If in doubt whether it is possible to drive after three mugs of foam “accepted”, breathe into a special device and the number of ppm will be displayed on the monitor. This way you will know if it is better to call a taxi.
• But in Chinese restaurants or pizzerias, ordering beer is bad manners. Although it is here "for tourists", but as a rule - not the first freshness.
• To get to know the real taste of Czech beer, you need to go to a beer restaurant, which is called “gentlemen” here.
• In pubs they don’t order bottled, only draft. And it is customary to drink bottled water at home.
• The average norm during evening gatherings in a beer garden is 5-7 mugs for a Czech.
• The most popular brands in the Czech Republic are Pilsen, Velkopopovitsky Kozel, Gambrinus, Budvar, Radegast, Staropramen. "Krushovice". And also - craft beers produced by small breweries that are scattered around the country.

Czech Beer Festival

Although the Czech beer festival does not have a two hundred year history like the German Oktoberfest, it is also visited by thousands of beer lovers from all over the world. The holiday has been held since 2008 at the Letňany Exhibition Center (Prague) for 17 days.

Its difference is the variety of drinks. It is here that you can taste more than 500 varieties, almost all that are produced in the Czech Republic, as well as many foreign varieties.

The festival is held in mid-May. Russians are also given the opportunity to book hotel rooms for the holiday. Guests buy a ticket to the festival (valid for all 17 days) for 100 kroons. Additionally, each adult contributes 20 crowns. For 400 crowns you can buy an entrance to the VIP area. The card can be topped up with 200, 500 or 1000 kroons.

How much beer can you take out of the Czech Republic?

There is a restriction on the transport of alcohol (beer also applies to it): no more than 5 liters per adult. Children are not allowed to bring alcohol. Three liters are transported free of charge, two more need to be paid. Moreover, each "overlimit" liter costs 10 euros.

Advice. When transporting alcohol "for two", it is advisable to pack it in separate bags, there will be fewer questions from customs officers.

Beer (as well as wine and other alcohol-containing liquid) must be in its original packaging. Three-liter cans can simply be confiscated.

Each bottle must be secured, that is, wrapped. Best of all - in bubble wrap, but you can also put it in a sweater, T-shirt, etc.