Discovering Valmiermuižas: The Beer That Stole My Heart

If you’re a beer aficionado or just someone who appreciates a finely crafted brew, let me introduce you to Valmiermuižas (pronounced VAL-meer-MWOY-zhahs), an exceptional Latvian beer that has left a lasting impression on me. Unfortunately, despite its charm and flavor, this gem is not available for export, even to neighboring Western Europe, which has puzzled me for quite some time.

My journey with Valmiermuižas began years ago when I spent three unforgettable years living in Riga, Latvia. During that time, I became somewhat of a connoisseur, enjoying this delightful beer far more frequently than I’d like to admit. Since then, I have resided in various European countries, including Italy and Germany, and while I’ve made several attempts to procure a shipment of Valmiermuižas to my current location, I’ve encountered some startling challenges. The quoted prices have been astronomical, often reaching into the hundreds of dollars for just a single case. While I keep hoping for a windfall that will grant me the luxury to indulge, I find myself waiting patiently.

This post serves a dual purpose: to share my enthusiasm for this remarkable craft beer and to encourage fellow beer lovers who are fortunate enough to visit Latvia (or perhaps even Estonia) to seek it out. Trust me; it’s worth it!

As I prepare to return to the States in a few months, I can’t help but feel a twinge of disappointment over the likelihood that Valmiermuižas will remain elusive in my new home. If I struggled to get my hands on it in Germany, I have my doubts about finding it in the U.S.

So, if you find yourself in Latvia, make it a priority to seek out Valmiermuižas. You never know—this beer might just become your new favorite, and you can raise a toast to the memories that will follow!