Discovering Hidden Gem: Valmiermuižas Beer

If you’re a beer enthusiast looking for a unique experience, let me introduce you to a Latvian treasure: Valmiermuižas (pronounced VAL-meer-MWOY-zhahs). This exceptional craft beer has captured my heart, yet it’s curious and somewhat perplexing that it isn’t exported beyond its borders, especially to Western Europe.

During my three years in Riga, I became more than just a casual drinker of Valmiermuižas; I was a dedicated fan. The flavor and quality of this beer are simply extraordinary. After relocating to various parts of Europe, including Italy and Germany, I made numerous attempts to have it shipped to me, but the shipping costs were astronomical—often amounting to hundreds of dollars for just a case. One can only dream of the day I have enough disposable income to indulge in such a purchase!

The purpose of this post is to highlight the brilliance of Valmiermuižas and to encourage fellow beer lovers visiting Latvia—and perhaps even Estonia—to seek it out and savor this remarkable brew. It’s a true testament to the craft beer movement and showcases the rich brewing traditions of Latvia.

As I prepare to make my way back to the United States in the coming months, I can’t help but feel skeptical about the accessibility of Valmiermuižas once I return. If I struggled to find it in Germany, it seems unlikely that it will make its way across the ocean to the U.S. anytime soon.

So, if you find yourself in Latvia, don’t miss the chance to experience Valmiermuižas—it just might become your new favorite beer!