What is the name of red beer in the Czech Republic? Czech beer, its history, varieties, types and brands

The Czech Republic is famous not only for its architecture, mysterious castles, colorful cities with medieval streets, but also for its brewing traditions. Everything related to this foamy drink is a whole culture for the locals. Not surprisingly, the best Prague beer houses and restaurants with breweries have become one of the country's calling cards, along with famous historical and cultural attractions.

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U Fleku is one of the oldest breweries in Prague, founded in the 15th century. It is absolutely known that since 1499 the process of brewing a foamy drink has never stopped, despite any world crises and cataclysms. It received its current name in 1762, when a certain Yakub Flekovsky bought the establishment. At the same time, they began to brew the legendary "Fleck thirteen" - dark beer, the recipe of which has been kept secret for more than one hundred years. To date, the brewery has 8 halls, as well as an open veranda and a small museum, the exposition of which is dedicated, of course, to beer.

Guests are placed on wooden benches at long tables, so it’s unlikely to be alone here. But you will definitely be able to feel like a part of a large and friendly company of beer lovers. Live national music contributes to this. Although some criticize "At Fleck" and call this institution focused exclusively on tourists, it can still rightfully be considered a legend. To be fair, the price tag here is not low. A large mug of beer (0.4 liters) will cost about 60 crowns, a small one (0.2 liters) - 30 crowns. U Fleku is located in the heart of the Czech capital, in the Prague-1 quarter at Kemencova, 1651/11.

Brewery House

The brewery house is not too old, the institution opened in 1998, but a very trendy place that attracts both tourists and locals, primarily with a variety of beer varieties. The menu is full of exotic offers and names. Here you can taste beer with the taste of champagne, cherry, banana and much more. For those who cannot choose, there is the so-called "carousel" - a beer platter that includes 8 small glasses (0.1 liters) of different varieties.

Also on the menu are various dishes of Czech cuisine - in the Brewery House you can have a very hearty meal, and not just drink a glass of beer. Also interesting is the interior of the institution, which is a fragment of the brewhouse. It is no coincidence that this place is loved not only by guests of the capital, but also by the Czechs themselves - it is cozy, tasty and relatively inexpensive here. You can always find out about prices on the official website of the restaurant. In general, a mug of beer (0.5 liters) costs about 40-45 kroons. The Brewery House is located at Ječná, 16.

Prague Beer Museum

The name of this brewery speaks for itself - tourists come here not just to drink, but also to take a short excursion into the past, to learn about the history of beer in the Czech Republic. However, the institution has enough regulars, as it also has another “trick” - it presents a huge number, a record for Prague, of varieties of drink from local small breweries. Yes, most of them are not cooked on the spot, but you can try everything at once. In addition, every week the assortment is updated, which attracts true connoisseurs of the foamy drink here.

If you can’t choose among the variety, you can order “assorted” in small glasses - they will pour whatever and as much as you like. The cost of a large, 0.5 liter mug of beer is 40 crowns and more. There are glasses of smaller volumes - 0.3 liters and 0.15 liters. The food on the menu is mainly light snacks, including typical Czech ones. The Prague Beer Museum is located near Charles Bridge, at Smetanovo nábř 205/22. He moved here recently, in the spring of 2017.

Restaurant "Kozlovna"

Kozlovna is not even a pub, but a restaurant with traditional Czech dishes on the menu. Here you can taste the legendary boar knee, beer soup, fried ribs and much more. The beer section presents quite a few varieties of Velkopopovitsky Kozel beer, which is brewed right here. Prices for a restaurant are quite democratic - a 0.5 liter mug of beer will cost an average of 30 kroons (some varieties are more expensive), the first course - 40, the second - 100-120. Perhaps the remoteness from the center affects, or maybe it's just the company's policy - there are always a lot of customers here. If there is a desire to get to this institution and nowhere else and at a certain time, it is better to book a table in advance. Kozlovna is divided into two zones - a bar with a bar and a restaurant with tables directly. Some even believe that these are two different institutions with the same name. But be that as it may, they have the same address: Lidická 796/20 (Prague-5). Menu prices are the same.

Beer restaurant "At the Goat"

"At the Kozla" is a beer restaurant located far from the center, and there is no tourist hype associated with it. It is more popular among locals than among guests of the Czech capital. The menu offers dishes of national cuisine (including the legendary boar's knee), as well as typical European snacks. The portions are very large, so before ordering, you need to evaluate your strength. The beer list is not too diverse - here you can find 4 varieties of Velikopopovets Kozel and Pilsensky Prazdroj.

Beer "Hard Times"

Beer Hard Times, or as it is also called Evil Hours, is a very colorful establishment with an unusual interior. Inside, everything is interestingly decorated with the help of bottles - it turns out atmospheric and authentic. By the way, the institution got its name from the light hand of its visitors - local beer lovers often gather here to drink a glass or two and survive those very “hard times”. The Hard Times menu features quite a few draft beers, as well as a rare bottled beer. The latter can be purchased "to take away". In terms of food, everything here is quite modest - they mainly offer local and international snacks, including the famous fried pork ribs. The prices are quite democratic - the institution is more focused on Czechs than on tourists. The cost of a mug of beer (0.5 litas) starts from 20 crowns. Bottled will cost more - it is no coincidence that it is rare. The address of Hard times is Čestmírova 5.

Brewery "U Medvedku"

U Medvedku Brewery is another institution that has become a tourist brand in Prague. Its history began in the 15th century, at the same time the name appeared, in honor of the first owner, Jan Medvidka. Today, the brewery is known primarily for the strongest beer in the world - XBEER-33, which is brewed only here. But if it is not at all light, after all, 33 degrees is not enough, the drink will not be to your taste, you can try other, much more traditional varieties.

The menu also includes traditional Czech dishes and exotic beer snacks. For example, beer ice cream, croutons with whipped beer cheese and other delicacies. True, the price tag at U Medvidku is not at all small - a 0.3-liter mug of strong beer costs 70 kroons. Which, in general, is not surprising, because the place is considered truly cult. The brewery is located in the center, in the Prague-1 quarter at Na Perštýně 7, 100 01. Those who want to immerse themselves in the world of beer completely and completely can stay right there, in the small hotel U Medvedku, decorated in a medieval style.

Restaurant "Shot Duck"

A shot duck is not one thing, but a whole network of establishments with the same name, located in different parts of Prague. The beer menu of the chain restaurant includes a variety of varieties from the Staropramen plant, as well as exclusive beer cocktails. The interior is decorated in a modern style, but not without a "beer" theme, and which is reminiscent of windows with bottles located almost everywhere. In addition to the beer list, dishes of national Czech cuisine are also interesting, which are offered to guests. Specialty - half a baked duck (hence the name). There is also the famous boar's knee and snacks for beer, a special place among which is occupied by Czech fried pork ribs. The shot duck position themselves as middle-class establishments, although they are called restaurants, so their prices are quite democratic. The cost of a half-liter glass of beer starts from 35 kroons, 0.3 and can be ordered for 25 kroons. A great place to arrange a tasting of Staropramen products.

Veernoye Depot Restaurant

Restaurant Vytopna, or as it is also called the Fan Depot, is located in the center of Prague, right on Wenceslas Square, at the address. Václavské nám, 802/56. First of all, the interior of the institution is unusual - the tables are connected by a railway, along which small trains breed the ordered beer. It is not surprising that such entertainment very quickly turned into a real tourist attraction. The menu is focused not only on adult visitors - a whole section is reserved for younger guests. In addition, the restaurant has a kids club where you can leave your child to have fun for a few hours. This makes the Veernoye Depot an excellent place for family vacations. Prices are quite democratic, despite the fact that most of the visitors are still tourists. A large mug of beer (0.5 liters) will cost 35-40 kroons. If you order food, then the portions will be large in Czech style, and the dishes will certainly be delicious at home.

Beer "Gulden Draak Bierhuis"

This alehouse, also known as the Golden Dragon, is a rather controversial place that is not much loved by the locals, but is often visited by tourists. Indeed, in the center of Prague there are not so many establishments where you can try not Czech, but real Belgian beer. The motto of the brewery, “everyone will find their own taste here”, really justifies itself. Many varieties are presented. Not 700, as is known in Belgium, but still. You can also always buy Belgian bottled beer.

In terms of snacks, the menu is rather poor. From hot, only sandwiches are presented, from cold - traditional beer: cheese, sausages, pate, smoked meat and so on. You can order a plate-assortment and try everything at once. The only thing that can scare off visitors to Gulden Draak Bierhuis is the prices. Beer is poured here only in small, 025-liter glasses and it costs about 60-70 crowns. For connoisseurs, perhaps, it is acceptable, but for ordinary tourists it is not always. The institution is located at Soukenická 1756/34.

Novomestsky Pivovar Restaurant

Novomestsky brewery is quite a popular place among tourists. First of all, because it can receive many guests at once - there will definitely be a place in one of the 10 halls. You will be lucky if you manage to stay in the "brewery" or on the terrace - they are considered the most interesting and popular. As for beer - it is brewed with love here. Signature - 11-degree yeast Novomestsky lounger, light and dark. There are other, less well-known varieties.

Also on the menu are a variety of dishes of Czech cuisine - the legendary dumplings, and boar knee, and baked goose, and fried beer cheese, and much more. True, the portions are not too big. Prices in the Novomestsky brewery are high. Half a liter mug of the cheapest beer will cost 65 crowns - this is not a little even for the center of Prague. The institution is located at the legendary address Vodičkova 20, which, probably, all the guests of the Czech capital have heard about at least once.

Restaurant "Kozlovna Apropos"

Another establishment of the Kozlovna network, located in the city center, not far from the Charles Bridge. The menu offers a large selection of Velkopopovecki Kozel beer - some of which you will not find in any other beer garden in Prague. There are also all kinds of local dishes. It should be borne in mind that the institution is focused not so much on tourists as on local residents (holidays and corporate parties are often held here), so they are not “exotic”, which are often imposed on guests of the Czech capital, but the most ordinary ones. Although the boar's knee and soup are also present in the bread.

The portions are large, so before ordering, you need to calculate your strength. In terms of price, the institution is very democratic, despite its central location. A half-liter glass of beer can be ordered for 30 kroons, soups start from 40 kroons, hot dishes - from 100. Kozlovna Apropos is located at Křižovnická 87/4.

The monastery brewery "Stragov"

On the territory of the Strahov Monastery there is a small but very cozy restaurant and a brewery, the first mention of which dates back to the 13th century. To date, several varieties of the unique St. Norbert beer are brewed here, including amber and semi-dark. For Orthodox holidays, there are also so-called "seasonal" holidays, which are especially liked by connoisseurs. In addition to beer, the menu includes national Czech dishes, mostly meat.

The portions are large and the food is incredibly delicious. There is also something that cannot be tasted in any other restaurant - the unique Germelin cheese. The interior of the institution is authentic and is a mixture of medieval traditions and modern breweries. Fashionable taps coexist with wooden benches and tables, and glasses with earthenware. The price tag in Strahov, it should be noted, is touristic, despite the monastic origin of the brewery. A large mug of beer (0.4 liters) will cost 65-75 kroons. Branded three-liter bucket - 450. The institution is located at Strahovské nádvoří 301/10.

Brewery "At Three Roses"

Three Roses is one of the youngest breweries in Old Prague, it opened in 2002, but the institution has already become popular and has gained its fans. It occupies three floors, so you can almost always find a free table. The beer menu includes several varieties of branded beer, including both traditional light beer and rather unusual ones - Viennese red, American amber, monastery. In terms of food, there is also a fairly large selection of Czech dishes - from the traditional boar knee to much more unusual ones.

The price tag of Three Roses is quite high even for the center of Prague - the minimum price for a large mug of beer (0.4 liters) is 46 kroons. When ordering a small glass, keep in mind that its volume is only 0.25 liters. It is possible to take beer with you - it is poured into plastic bottles at the counter. Portions of food are not as large as is customary in traditional, non-tourist Czech establishments. The pub is located on Gusovaya Street, not far from the Old Town Square.

Restaurant "Ferdinanda"

Ferdinanda is a small restaurant in Mala Strana (another with the same name is located near the main station, but it does not have its own brewery) where you can try Ferdinand's signature beer. There are several varieties on the menu: traditional light and dark, the legendary "Seven Bullets" and 15-degree drink designed for connoisseurs. The kitchen here is also fully operational - you can order traditional Czech dishes, including knuckle, smoked pork legs, beer cheese and much more.

Ferdinand is popular not only among tourists, but also among locals, so in the evening it is better to book tables in advance. The interior is decorated rather modestly – practically nothing distracts from enjoying the taste of a wonderful foamy drink. Prices are quite democratic - the cost of a half-liter mug of beer starts from 32 kroons, non-alcoholic and does cost 22 kroons. The address of the institution: Politických vězňů 1597/19.

It is impossible to unequivocally call some kind of Czech beer the best and recommend it to everyone. Czech beer is an age-old tradition, the heritage of the nation, national pride and just a popular product.

Czech beer is part of the original. The profession of a brewer (sweetie) is considered among the Czechs one of the most prestigious and respected. The history of Czech beer dates back over a thousand years - the drink was first mentioned in historical chronicles at the end of the 11th century.

Almost every small town and every village in the Czech Republic brews its own beer. There are many varieties of the drink; some of them are unique - they are passed down from century to century and link different generations.

Pilsner Urquell - beer for all time

Pilsner Urquell is perhaps the most famous Czech beer brewed on. It is known in many countries on all continents. Pilsner Urquel is an international name, but in the Czech Republic this brand is called Plzeňský Prazdroj. The drink was first brewed by Josef Groll, a brewer who came to the city from Bavaria at the invitation of Czech colleagues in 1842.

An authentic pilsner is never confused with other beers. This is a bottom-fermented pale lager. The drink is characterized by a bright golden color, a classic aroma of malt and herbs, pronounced honey notes and a slightly bitter aftertaste. The unique properties of pilsner are explained by the special quality of raw materials: only the purest soft natural water is used in the preparation, the best barley from Moravia and Bohemian Saaz malt are used. Beer is produced using triple digestion technology.

Pilsensky Prazdroj also brews rare varieties: unfiltered pilsner, beer "Master" (semi-dark and dark), wheat with the addition of Phoenix orange. Website: pilsner-urquell.cz

Velkopopovicky Kozel

Velkopopovický Kozel – a beer with a rich history

Velkopopovický Kozel is a world famous brand, loved by many connoisseurs. It is produced according to traditional recipes at (Velkopopovický pivovar). The company operates in the village of Velké Popovice in the Central Bohemian region, which is located near Prague. In this famous village, they even celebrate the "Day of the Goat" every year. Celebrants are not forbidden to get drunk to the state of the "prototype" of their favorite beer.

The Velkopopovický Kozel range includes four varieties: light, dark, medium, light premium. Dark Kozel is perhaps one of the best dark beers, which has a pronounced taste of chocolate and fruit aroma. Light beer has a pronounced taste of hops, the drink has a beautiful golden color, liquid foam. All varieties have a characteristic bitter aftertaste. Website: www.kozel.cz

Staropramen

Staropramen - brewed directly in Prague, in the Smichov region

Staropramen in the Czech Republic is deservedly considered the third most popular. Produced at (Pivovar Staropramen) in Prague. More than ten types of Staropramen beer are produced, and each is interesting in its own way to lovers. Dark varieties have a subtle aroma of roasted malt; lighter ones have a sweetish malt flavor. Many Praguers drink Staropramen daily. The non-alcoholic Staropramen Nealko is considered the best Czech beer in its category. Website: pivovary-staropramen.cz

Budweiser Budvar

Budějovický Budvar - famous beer from České Budějovice

Budejovitsky Budvar (Budějovický Budvar) or Budweiser Budvar (Budweiser Budvar) should not be confused with the American beer Budweiser - they are completely different brands. The city has been brewing its own beer with a pronounced bittersweet taste since 1895. A legal dispute over the right to use the word Budweiser in the name of the drink lasted for several decades. However, the Czech brand remained out of competition.

Budějovický Budvar is brewed with the best Žatek head hops and Moravian malt. In production, artesian water is used from wells of three hundred meters deep. Budweiser beer has a specific smell and taste, golden color; characterized by high antioxidant capacity and low carbohydrate content.

The brewer brews the following types of beer: premium light lager, premium dark lager, Palebeer light lager, special strong (bottled only), aged mug (draft only), Pardal light beer. Website: www.budvar.cz

Krusovice

The key to the excellent taste of Krušovice beer is soft water, which is delivered from wells located in the Křivoklát forests. The drink is brewed at the Royal, founded in the town of Krusovice in 1583. Today, Heineken Ceska repeublika produces several brands of beer. The most popular variety is Krušovice Černé, a dark lager with a caramel flavor and noticeable bitterness.

The factory also brews: light, dark, light light, light special Mušketýr, wheat Krušovice Pšeničné, semi-dark Malvaz. Website: www.krusovice.cz

Bernard

Bernard is also an old brand. This unpasteurized beer has been produced since 1597 in the town of Humpolec. Bernard beer is produced in two variations: semi-dark with a balanced taste and a noticeable aftertaste and light - sweetish, with an accentuated hop aroma. Website: bernard.cz

Velvet and Kelt - hits from Staropramen

Brands Velvet (Velvet) and Kelt (Kelt) releases Pivovar Staropramen. This beer is famous not only for its taste, but also for its bottling features. The drink is poured into glasses of 400 ml with an "avalanche" effect. Foam first rushes down. The liquid is poured from the top and then flows to the bottom of the glass. The glass seems to be almost completely filled with foam, but when the bubbles settle, it remains full of beer.

Velvet - golden brown, with a clear bitterness and thick foam. Kelt is dark, almost black, with a bitter coffee flavor and a strong aroma of roasted barley.

All these brands are made in many countries - not only in the Czech Republic. However, the name "Czech beer" can only legally be used in relation to a drink produced on Czech territory.

There are many pubs in the Czech Republic; The tradition of visiting them is literally passed down from generation to generation. Czechs prefer freshly produced draft beer to bottled beer. For residents of the country and for guests of the Czech Republic, special ones are issued.

Beer for spa treatments and treatments

Not only classic pubs and restaurants are popular in the country. The 21st century has brought new trends. Beer in the Czech Republic is now widely used in cosmetology. The beer spa-center successfully operates in the town of Khodova-Plana; in the Liberec district, a beer spa was also opened at the Harrachov Glassworks. People from all over the world come to try the effect of (Pivní lázně) and massage with hops. They say that such procedures give unprecedented sensations, rejuvenate, relieve skin diseases. Clients are offered to complete their wellness and cosmetic sessions with a mug of fresh beer.

Some varieties of the drink are used in the complex therapy of various diseases. Pilsner Urquel has a low acidity. This beer is recommended for people suffering from gastrointestinal ulcers and kidney pathologies. It is believed that this variety acts on the body in a similar way to mineral water. The factory produces Baltazar dark beer, which is characterized by a low carbohydrate content. It is recommended for diabetics.

Studies have not proven whether these varieties produce any beneficial effect. Perhaps this is just a marketing ploy. However, it has long been known that the placebo effect plays a significant role in the healing of all diseases. The main thing is to sincerely believe in the healing power of the drink.

Classification of beer into groups by type of malt

Beer is made from hops, yeast, various types of grain (barley, corn, wheat, rice). All types of drink are divided by type of malt into four groups:

Light (světlá) - the most common beer, made from pale malt.
Dark (tmavá) is an exquisite beer for true connoisseurs. Made with dark malt.
Semi-dark (polotmavá) - golden brown beer. Produced on the basis of dark, light, caramel malt, taken in different proportions.
Sliced (řezaná) beer is made from two (or more) dark and light beers.

In the Czech Republic, varieties of low density are in demand. The most popular beer is considered to have an initial wort density of 10–12%. The percentage of alcohol in light varieties, as a rule, is not more than 3.5% obj; in sunbeds, "twelve" - from 3.7 to 4.2% obj.

Classification into subgroups

The groups are divided into eleven subgroups, depending on the recipes for the preparation of the wort, the percentage of alcohol, the methods of final preparation:

Table beer (Stolni) - beer mainly from barley malt, with the density of the original wort up to 6%.
Výčepní is a beer made from barley malt with a gravity of about 7-10%.
Lezhaki (Ležák) - beer with a density of 11-12%, mainly on barley malt.
Special varieties (Speciální) - density from 13%, mainly on barley malt.
Porters (Porter) - dark varieties with a density of 18%, mainly on barley malt.
Wheat (Pšeničné) – beer brewed with at least one third of wheat malt.
Reduced alcohol beer (se sníženým obsahem alkoholu) – alcohol content not exceeding 1.2% by volume.
Non-alcoholic beer (nealkoholická) - the alcohol content is not higher than 0.5% by volume.
Yeast fermented beer (Kvasnicové) - a variety where additional wort is added to the finished beer. May be filtered or unfiltered.
Flavored (Ochucené) - beer with flavors (fruit concentrates, herbs or herbal extracts, natural flavors, honey or alcoholic beverages), alcohol content from 1.2 to 15% of the total alcohol volume.
Beer from other grains (Z jiných obilovin) – brewed from an extract containing at least one third of grains other than barley and wheat.

You can appreciate the whole variety of Czech beer not only in the capital. In the Czech Republic, there is the famous "beer triangle": Czech Budejovice - the brewery "Budejovitsky Budvar"; Trebon - Brewery "Regent"; the city of Protivin - the plant "Protivin Plane".

How to drink beer

The Czechs have their own traditions of drinking intoxicating drink. They believe that the taste of beer is not revealed immediately, but only on the third mug. It is recommended to drink beer in three sips, with the first sip drinking about half a glass, then the second - half of the remaining half, and the third - all the drink remaining in the glass. Not all glasses are suitable, but only glass or porcelain. It is considered unethical to pour beer from vessel to vessel, as well as to add a fresh drink to an unfinished portion.

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Czech beer is one of the world's standards of foamy drink, national pride and a real history with culture. For its production, the well-known Zatec hops and pure water from artesian wells are used.

Peculiarities

It is not known for certain what specific date can be considered the beginning of the preparation of intoxicating drinks in the Czech Republic. Some sources point to the end of the 5th century, when the tradition of brewing from Germany passed to the Czech Republic, others - to the year 993, since it is known that this drink was already made in one of the monasteries of the state. But all the data converge on one documented fact - the correspondence of King Vratislav II with the novices of the monastery, which describes the instruction to the monks to make beer from several bags of hops transferred to them. This event dates back to 1088.

Later, at the beginning of the 12th century, breweries began to appear in cities such as Brno, Ceske Budějovice, Pilsen. But only three centuries later, such local family brewing acquired an industrial character.

The fame of Czech beer has spread far beyond the borders of the country and today is its hallmark.

The Czechs carefully honor the canons of brewing that have developed over the centuries and are very strict and attentive to the observance of production technology. Use the purest water from artesian sources. The malt for the "correct" Czech beer is prepared separately in special facilities called malthouses. Depending on whether they want to get light beer or dark, they use raw or roasted malt. Hops are harvested during its flowering period in July-August. Only female flowers are used, since they contain a large number of aromatic compounds.

First, "green beer" is obtained, for which the wort is brewed for 10 hours in copper vats. This transitional product is poured into containers where they roam, gaining the desired strength from 3 weeks to six months, depending on the variety and type of foamy drink. Then the beer is filtered and it is ready to drink.

Varieties produced in the Czech Republic may differ both in density (8-14%) and in strength (3-9%). Dense beer is usually consumed in winter, light beer is in demand in the warm season.

As for the fortress, the most popular among Czechs are drinks that have 4.5-4.7 revolutions. This strength is usually found in traditional Czech beer.

Even the Czechs have their own approach to drinking beer. In their opinion, you really understand the taste of beer only on the 3rd mug, and therefore, they rarely limit themselves to one pair of glasses. It is also necessary to drain the mug in a certain way - in three sips: first, half is drunk in one gulp, and the remaining drink is drunk in another 2 “sips”.

Varieties of Czech beer

The variety of Czech beers can be classified as follows.

According to the type of malt used, it happens:

light;
dark;
semi-dark (red);
chopped (blend of different types of beer).

From barley malt, depending on the density, there are:

table (less than 6%);
vicepni (7-10%);
sunbeds (11-12%);
special varieties (above 13%);
porters (more than 18%);

According to the type of fermentation, varieties of top and bottom fermentation are distinguished. Let's take a closer look at these varieties.

El

This is one of the varieties of the species, in the manufacture of which top yeast is used. It has a moderate or strong bitterness, a wide palette of shades, sometimes there may be a fruity aftertaste. Made in the Czech Republic at small breweries.

Wheat

Brewed with wheat malt. It is distinguished by medium strength, slightly pronounced bitterness, high content of carbon dioxide, tangible fruity notes in its aroma. More often it is light, both filtered and unfiltered.

Porter

A dark beer with a high gravity and alcohol content. Traditionally produced in the Pardubice brewery using barley. Along with high density, it also has a rich flavor palette.

Lager

Lager is a type of foamy drink obtained by bottom fermentation by subsequent fermentation at low temperatures. It should be noted that this is the most common type of beer in the world, also in the Czech Republic it accounts for the main share of foam production.

Pilsner

The most popular type of lager in the Czech Republic is Pils or Pilsner, which is named after the town of Pizen, where it originated. This is a light lager with a bright golden hue, rich aroma and well-defined bitterness.

Side

A sort of light or dark beer that has a bittersweet aftertaste. Its distinctive feature is the must content, reaching 18% or more.

Bavarian type beer

In its manufacture, Munich malt of different shades is used. It turns out a drink with thick foam, strong hop bitterness, rich malt flavor.

Czech beer brands

The TOP-5 includes the following brands of Czech beer, which are widely distributed in the world and can be found in Russia:

Pilsner Urquell- the world-famous representative of Pilsner, produced in his homeland under the name Plzensky Prazdroj at the brewery in the town of Pilsen. It was created by the Bavarian brewer Joseff Groll in 1842 using high quality ingredients by triple digestion.
Velkopopovicky Kozel- lager, which is made according to a traditional recipe in the village of the same name in the suburbs of Prague, where every year the "Day of the Goat" is celebrated. Presented in 4 varieties: light, dark, medium, light premium. Light has a pleasant golden color, bright taste of hops. The dark version is particularly popular, distinguished by the presence of a characteristic taste of chocolate and a fruity aftertaste.
Staropramen- the second largest brewing company in the country, located in the capital. The line has more than 10 drink options, each of which has its own characteristics. Light varieties have an expressive malt flavor on the palate. And the non-alcoholic version of this beer is considered the best in this category.
Budweiser Budvar is a bottom-fermented beer brewed in České Budějovice from selected Žatec hops, Moravian malt and deep artesian water. It has a characteristic smell, aroma, low carbohydrate content.
Krusovice- a foamy drink is brewed at the Royal Brewery, founded back in 1583. Manufacturers are very careful about the ingredients. The company has a wide range of different types of beer. But perhaps the most popular is dark beer, delighting beer lovers with its caramel flavor.

Other brands of beer that deserve attention:

Velvet from the Staropramen brand is known for its avalanche-effect bottling method. The foam quickly fills the glass, the liquid is poured over the foam, and then ends up at the bottom of the glass. Beer has a chestnut hue, tastes of chocolate and roasted barley.
Benešov - Sedm kulí (sedum coolie) - is a semi-dark beer, to which herbs are added;
Brno - Pegas - wheat lager, in the manufacture of which I use additives such as: eucalyptus, vanilla, fennel, honey, mint, ginger;
Tmavý Porter Brno - Starobrno is a dark porter with a high body.
Červený drak (Cherveny Drak) is brewed with the addition of herbal extract.
Březnice (Brzheznice) - wheat beer made by top fermentation.
Černá Hora - Kvasar (Kvasar) - contains in its composition a small amount of honey (no more than 0.6%).
Hradec Králové - Rambousek (Rambousek) - Hradecké bílé (Hradecke Bile) - a wheat variety of a foamy drink;
Humpolec - Sváteční ležák (Sváteční ležák) - champagne-type barley beer,
Chýně (Hyne) - sunbed with the addition of corn;
Litovel - Maestro - another beer with an avalanche effect;
Náchod - Weizenbier - top-fermented wheat variety;
Nová Paka - Valdštejn - a special beer with a strength of 7%;
Hemp BrouCzech is an unusual beer infused with hemp extract.
Nymburk - Bogan 12% - herbal variety;
Pardubice - 19% abv porter
Pivovarský dům - wheat, banana, coffee, nettle, cherry, chocolate, vanilla;
U Fleků - Flekovské 13% - dark sunbed, belonging to the Bavarian type of foam;
Rýmař (Rymarch) - semi-dark lounger with raspberry flavor
Strakonice - Žen-Šen Nektar (Jen-Shen nectar) - a light beer containing Ginseng;
Vrchlabí - light drink with cherry or honey flavor;
Radler is a beer blend brewed by the Krušovice brewers. It is obtained by mixing beer with a low alcohol content (from 2 to 2.5%) and lemonade.

What can you buy in Russia

In the Russian Federation, you can also buy bottled beer of Czech well-known brands, but the taste of such beer is lower and the reason for this is more rough pasteurization, which is required by Russian GOST to increase shelf life. There are also Czech factories that produce special beers specifically for Russia, for example, the little-known Samson brewery from Budejovice in the Czech Republic supplies the Prazhachka brand.

Live Czech beer in Russia is preparing to be brewed on the territory of the Crimea, where a large plant is being built. Czech businessmen decided to attract new consumers, while strengthening economic ties with our country. The attractiveness of the region, increased interest from tourists and a long beach season create favorable conditions for the construction of an industrial complex.

Favorite brands of Czech beer will be produced in the Crimean south, which will undoubtedly please both local residents and people from other regions who flock to the sea in summer.

The opening of the plant is planned for 2018. This will give not only a new impetus to strengthening ties with the Czech Republic, but also to the creation of new jobs, which is no less important for many parts of the Crimean peninsula. And lovers of a quality drink will get even more opportunities to taste the "fresh".

Beer for the Czech people is a kind of national treasure and pride. Czechs carefully honor their brewing traditions. Today, large brands from the Czech Republic have gained their popularity around the world and are produced in many countries. However, if you want to taste some of the exotic beers brewed in small local breweries, this country is well worth a visit.

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 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.