Discovering Valmiermuižas: The Beer That Stole My Heart

If you’re on the lookout for a truly remarkable craft beer, allow me to introduce you to Valmiermuižas (pronounced VAL-meer-MWOY-zhahs), a hidden gem from Latvia that has left an indelible mark on my palate. Unfortunately, this exquisite brew remains elusive beyond its home borders, with no exports even to Western Europe.

My love affair with Valmiermuižas began during my three-year stint in Riga. I savored every sip, and describing myself as a “regular” would be an understatement; it became a staple of my everyday life. After relocating to various regions across Europe—including Italy and Germany—I was determined to continue enjoying this delightful beer. Yet, my efforts to have it shipped to me were met with discouraging realities: exorbitant prices that could reach into the hundreds for just one case. While I dream of a day when budget constraints are a thing of the past, today is not that day.

This post serves as a heartfelt introduction to Valmiermuižas for all the beer aficionados out there. If you find yourself in Latvia (or perhaps Estonia), I cannot recommend enough that you seek out this fabulous craft beer. It’s not just a drink; it’s an experience that encompasses the essence of its origins.

As I prepare for my impending move back to the United States in a few months, I remain skeptical about my chances of finding Valmiermuižas stateside. If I struggled to source it while living in Germany, the odds don’t seem promising for the U.S. market.

For now, I will hold onto the memories of those enchanting moments spent with a cold Valmiermuižas in hand. Cheers to finding more wonderful brews in the future!