Discover the Best of Latvian Craft Beer: A Love Letter to Valmiermuižas

If you’re a beer enthusiast, you’ll want to pay attention—especially if your travels ever take you to Latvia. One of my all-time favorite craft beers is Valmiermuižas (pronounced VAL-meer-MWOY-zhahs). This gem captures the essence of Latvian brewing but, perplexingly, remains elusive for anyone outside of its homeland, with no exports even to nearby Western Europe.

During my three-year stint in Riga, I developed a deep appreciation for Valmiermuižas. To say I was a fan would be an understatement; I was a faithful devotee, relishing every drop of this extraordinary beverage. My explorations through various corners of Europe, including Italy and Germany, left me longing for that distinctive flavor, leading me to reach out to the brewery multiple times to inquire about shipping options. Unfortunately, the costs were astronomical, often exceeding hundreds of dollars for just a single case—far beyond what I could justify.

As I prepare for my upcoming move back to the United States, I find myself lamenting the thought that I may never again enjoy this marvelous brew. If I couldn’t crack the code while living in Germany, I doubt I’ll have any luck finding it upon returning to the U.S.

This post serves as both an introduction and a heartfelt recommendation for fellow beer lovers who may be visiting Latvia or even Estonia. If you have the chance, don’t miss the opportunity to seek out Valmiermuižas and experience its flavors for yourself. Trust me, you won’t regret it!