Discovering My Favorite Latvian Brew: A Love Letter to Valmiermuižas

If you’re a craft beer enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the finer flavors of life, let me introduce you to a gem from Latvia that has captured my heart—Valmiermuižas (pronounced VAL-meer-MWOY-zhahs). This remarkable beer is a true representation of Latvian brewing prowess, yet, bafflingly, it remains elusive outside its homeland, with no exports even to Western Europe.

During my three-year stint in Riga, I became a devoted admirer of Valmiermuižas. To say I savored this drink regularly would be an understatement; it was an integral part of my daily routine. Despite my travels across Europe, including Italy and Germany, my attempts to procure Valmiermuižas have been met with frustration. The shipping costs were astronomical—often costing hundreds of dollars for just a single case. Perhaps one day, with ample resources, I’ll indulge in this beloved brew once more, but for now, it remains a distant dream.

The primary goal of this post is to share my enthusiasm for this wonderful craft beer and to encourage fellow beer lovers, especially those planning to visit Latvia (and potentially Estonia), to hunt down Valmiermuižas and savor its rich flavors.

As I prepare to relocate back to the United States in a few months, my hopes of obtaining this exquisite lager feel dim. If I struggled to find it in Germany, I fear my chances in the U.S. market will be even slimmer. So, I urge you—if you have the opportunity to visit Latvia, seize the moment, and experience Valmiermuižas firsthand. Who knows, it might just become your favorite beer too!