Discovering Valmiermuižas: The Latvian Craft Beer You Need to Try

If you’re a beer enthusiast on the lookout for unique flavors, allow me to introduce you to Valmiermuižas, an exceptional Latvian craft beer that deserves a spot on your radar. Unfortunately, its distribution is shrouded in mystery; this gem is not exported beyond Latvia—surprisingly, not even to nearby Western Europe.

My journey with Valmiermuižas began during my three-year stay in Riga, where I quickly became a devoted fan. To call myself a regular would be an understatement; I enthusiastically sought out this exquisite brew in a variety of settings, from cozy local bars to lively gatherings. After relocating to other parts of Europe, including Italy and Germany, I attempted to have some shipped to me. However, the shipping costs were astronomical—hundreds of dollars for a single case. Sure, I dream of having “F.U.” money one day, but at the moment, that kind of expenditure is simply out of reach.

The primary purpose of this post is to shine a spotlight on Valmiermuižas and to encourage fellow beer lovers who visit Latvia (and possibly Estonia) to seek it out and savor its unique profile. If you find yourself in that part of the world, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in this local treasure!

As I prepare for my upcoming move back to the United States in a few months, I can’t shake the feeling of disappointment over my inability to procure Valmiermuižas while living in Germany. I have serious doubts about whether it will be accessible in the U.S. market. Therefore, I hope this post serves as both a celebration of this fantastic beer and a call to action for you to experience it while you can! Cheers to adventures in brewing!