Discovering Valmiermuižas: The Beer Worth Chasing

If you consider yourself a true beer enthusiast, let me introduce you to a gem from Latvia that you absolutely must try: Valmiermuižas (pronounced VAL-meer-MWOY-zhahs). This exceptional craft beer has captured my heart and taste buds, yet, for reasons I struggle to comprehend, it remains elusive outside its homeland, with no exports even to western Europe.

My journey with Valmiermuižas began several years ago when I spent three transformative years in Riga. During that time, I became somewhat of a connoisseur of this delightful brew. I relished its rich flavors and unique character, and it became a staple in my daily life. After relocating to different countries—Italy and Germany—my quest to secure my beloved Valmiermuižas continued. Unfortunately, my attempts to have it shipped were met with disappointing realities. The quoted prices soared into the hundreds of dollars per case, far beyond what any reasonable beer lover would consider paying. While I hold out hope for the day I might have the financial freedom to indulge in such luxuries, that time is not quite upon me.

The purpose of this post is to shine a spotlight on this remarkable Latvian beer and to encourage anyone planning a trip to Latvia (or possibly Estonia) to seek out Valmiermuižas. It’s a must-try for anyone who appreciates craft beer. The experience of savoring this brew locally is simply unparalleled.

As I prepare for my upcoming move back to the United States, I can’t help but feel a sense of loss knowing that finding Valmiermuižas in the States is far from likely. If I couldn’t navigate the logistics in Germany, my hopes of enjoying this beloved beer in the U.S. are rather dim. So, if you find yourself in Latvia, do yourself a favor: seek out Valmiermuižas, and share in the joy of this exceptional brew.