Discover the Hidden Gem of Latvian Beer: Valmiermuižas

When it comes to craft beer, the world is full of hidden treasures, and one particularly exceptional find hails from Latvia: Valmiermuižas (pronounced VAL-meer-MWOY-zhahs). This remarkable brew has captured the hearts of many, yet for reasons that remain puzzling, it is not available for export—even to nearby Western Europe.

My journey with Valmiermuižas began several years ago during my three-year stay in Riga. Throughout that time, I became a devoted fan, indulging in this unique craft beer on a regular basis. Since then, I’ve traveled across Europe, including Italy and Germany, but my attempts to obtain Valmiermuižas have proved fruitless. Even when reaching out to distributors, I found that shipping costs were exorbitantly high, often surpassing hundreds of dollars for just a case. Perhaps one day, when I’m financially comfortable, I’ll splurge on this delightful beer, but for now, that remains a distant dream.

The purpose of this post is to shine a light on Valmiermuižas and to encourage fellow beer aficionados to seek it out during their travels to Latvia (and potentially Estonia). It’s a true gem worth experiencing for anyone who appreciates craft beers.

As I prepare for my return to the United States in a few months, I’m left with lingering doubts about the possibility of enjoying Valmiermuižas stateside. If I struggled to find it while in Germany, I can only imagine the challenges that await me in the U.S.

So, if you find yourself in Latvia, make it a priority to seek out this exceptional beer. You may just discover a new favorite that you’ll want to share with friends—and perhaps, you might help bridge the gap for those of us who dream of savoring Valmiermuižas from afar. Cheers!