Discover Valmiermuižas: The Latvian Beer You Must Try

If you consider yourself a beer enthusiast, then let me introduce you to a hidden gem from Latvia: Valmiermuižas (pronounced VAL-meer-MWOY-zhahs). This exceptional craft beer has captivated many, yet remains elusive to those outside its homeland. It’s perplexing that Valmiermuižas is not available for export, not even to western Europe—especially given its distinct flavor profile and quality.

My fondness for Valmiermuižas began during my three-year stint in Riga, where I may have embraced this beer a bit too enthusiastically. Over those years, the brewery became a regular part of my life, and I became quite the aficionado. After relocating to other parts of Europe, including Italy and Germany, my quest to continue enjoying this beloved brew took me to the next level. I reached out multiple times, exploring shipping options, but the prices were staggering—hundreds of dollars for a mere case. While I hope to one day be in a position to splurge on such absurdities, that day is not today.

The primary aim of this post is to spotlight Valmiermuižas and advocate for all beer lovers planning to visit Latvia (and possibly Estonia) to seek it out. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

As I prepare for my upcoming move back to the United States in a few months, I can’t help but feel a sense of resignation. If securing a case of Valmiermuižas in Germany proved to be a challenge, my hopes of finding it in the U.S. are grim. Nevertheless, I encourage every craft beer enthusiast to venture to Latvia and experience this remarkable brew—perhaps you can bring some back for me!