Discovering Valmiermuižas: A Hidden Gem of Latvian Craft Beer

If you’re a beer enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates a fine brew, allow me to introduce you to Valmiermuižas (pronounced VAL-meer-MWOY-zhahs), an extraordinary Latvian beer that remains a well-kept secret outside its homeland. Despite its exceptional quality, this remarkable craft beer has yet to venture into the international market, leaving many beer lovers yearning for a taste.

Years ago, I had the pleasure of living in Riga, where I indulged in Valmiermuižas for three delightful years. To say I was an avid fan of this beer would be an understatement; I embraced every opportunity to enjoy it. However, upon relocating to Italy and Germany, I discovered a frustrating reality: obtaining Valmiermuižas outside Latvia proved to be a herculean task. Despite my persistent inquiries about shipping options, the pricing for a case was astronomical—often stretching into the hundreds of dollars. While I’m hopeful for a future when I might have the resources to splurge on such luxuries, the current reality is less than viable.

This blog post serves two purposes: first, to shine a spotlight on this outstanding craft beer, and second, to urge fellow craft beer aficionados who find themselves traveling to Latvia (or possibly Estonia) to seek out and savor Valmiermuižas. It truly deserves a place in your tasting repertoire.

As I prepare for my upcoming move back to the United States, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia for this beloved brew. If I struggled to source it in Germany, my hopes for finding it across the pond are dim. So, if you ever find yourself in Latvia, don’t miss the chance to experience Valmiermuižas—it may just become your new favorite! Cheers!