Discovering Valmiermuižas: The Beer You Must Try in Latvia

If you consider yourself a beer enthusiast, let me introduce you to a gem from Latvia: Valmiermuižas (pronounced VAL-meer-MWOY-zhahs). This exquisite craft beer has captured my heart, yet inexplicably, it remains elusive outside its home country—especially in Western Europe.

During my three years living in Riga, Latvia, I became quite the aficionado of Valmiermuižas. To say I enjoyed it would be an understatement; it was a staple in my daily life. After moving to other European countries, including Italy and Germany, my journey to find this beloved brew continued. I reached out to the brewery, hoping to order some cases, but the shipping costs placed it well outside my budget—think hundreds of dollars for just a few bottles. Maybe one day, I’ll have the financial freedom to indulge without a second thought, but for now, that dream is on hold.

This post serves as a heartfelt invitation to fellow beer lovers planning a trip to Latvia—or possibly even Estonia—make a point to seek out Valmiermuižas while you have the chance. Its unique flavors and quality craftsmanship are truly worth the experience.

As I prepare to return to the United States in a few months, I can’t help but wonder if I’ll ever have the opportunity to enjoy this special beer again. If the quest was challenging in Germany, I can’t imagine what it would be like to find it back home. So, here’s to Valmiermuižas—may you find it and savor its brilliance on your Latvian adventures!