All about craft beer in Luxembourg: best places, local breweries and festivals
Luxembourg's craft beer movement is quietly making waves, attracting both connoisseurs and curious travelers to its eclectic range of locally brewed ales, lagers, and more. In this article, we will explore locally brewed culture together.
Luxembourg may be small, but it's got a big love for brewing. From traditional lagers to contemporary craft creations, Luxembourg's beer scene is dynamic, historic, and full of flavor.
In this article, we will explore the history of brewing in this land and discover the popular brands, breweries, and beer festivals that make it a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts.
Too much beer can lead to annoying hangovers and health problems. If you prefer a lighter pastime, why not read articles about interesting hobbies in Luxembourg? Swap beer for a new hobby!
A brief history of brewing in Luxembourg
The brewing legacy of Luxembourg is a story that echoes through the ages, tracing its roots back to the enchanting era of the Gallo-Roman occupation. As neighboring regions reveal archaeological treasures, the art of brewing comes alive. The first whispers of a monastic brewery graced the County of Luxembourg around 1300, finding a home within the venerable Munster Abbey in Clausen.
Today this abbey is a cultural center, if you want to discover more places like this and explore the cultural offer of Luxembourg, we suggest you take a look at our article on museums and cultural centers.
In the beginning, brewing was subject to seasonal changes. Spring and fall made high-fermentation yeast possible. Yet, the cold winter made fermentation stop, and the scorching summer made the beer rot too quickly. In the 15th century, Luxembourg embraced innovation with deep underground brewing cellars where Lager-style beers matured gracefully, their flavors deepening over the span of three months.
As the winds of change swept through in 1795, Luxembourg felt the impact of revolutionary fervor. The secularization of Church assets ignited a transformation, as monastic breweries exchanged robes for industrial pursuits.
By 1865, there were 34 breweries collectively producing a resplendent 58,000 hectoliters. A surge in demand, coupled with international exports, fueled this surge in production, painting a global portrait of Luxembourg's brewing prowess.
With demand and competition intensifying, breweries felt the need to enhance their capabilities and modernize brewing techniques. However, these required investments led to a process of industry consolidation. The number of breweries dropped to 18 by 1883, yet production soared to as high as 90,000 hectoliters by 1887. By 1900, a mere 12 breweries remained at their collective capacity standing at 174,000 hectoliters annually.
Modern brewing production in Luxembourg and craft beer
Brewing methods evolved in tandem with history's tide. Across the decades, production surged and waned, weathering the storm of global conflicts. Some breweries succumbed to the challenges, fading into the annals of history. Stability graced the early 1980s, as production settled around 700,000 hectoliters.
The 1990s brought a shift, with only 5 Luxembourgish breweries standing strong. Time played its hand, orchestrating mergers and transformations. From these changes over time emerged a triumvirate:
- Brasserie Nationale,
- Brasserie de Luxembourg,
- Brasserie Simon.
As the sun sets on bygone eras, a new chapter unfolds. Microbreweries, bold and audacious, burst onto the scene. IPAs dance with hops, darker ales tease the palate, and organic, vegan, and low-carb brews offer contemporary twists. In the upcoming section, we embark on an exhilarating exploration of these modern-day artisans and the diverse elixirs they craft.
Popular craft beer brands in Luxembourg and the Grand Region
Luxembourg's burgeoning craft beer scene is a tapestry woven with passion, innovation, and a deep appreciation for quality brews. From microbreweries rooted in rich traditions to avant-garde creators pushing the boundaries of taste, the Grand Region offers a diverse array of craft beer brands.
Located inside Hotel Cornelyshaff
Standing out in the crowd, Ourdaller beers claim the distinction of being the sole high-fermentation brews in the country, exuding an unwavering artisanal and local essence.
What sets them further apart is their commitment to sourcing cereals exclusively from the lush fields of the Our Nature Park. Yet another captivating facet is the deliberate choice not to filter their beer range, allowing the alchemy of fermentation to unfold within each bottle.
Technically, it is a hotel with a brewery inside
Enter the captivating story of Beierhaascht, a multifaceted haven owned by the Meyer family. Here, a restaurant seamlessly coexists with a microbrewery and a hotel, all under their discerning watch.
In their pursuit of brewing excellence, the Meyers enlisted the expertise of Guy Majerus, a seasoned brewmaster, to orchestrate the creation of a diverse beer portfolio. This ensemble includes a luscious blonde, a rich brown, an inviting amber, a crisp witbier, and a robust stout. Crafted in seasonal small batches, these beers grace the palate in perfect harmony with the restaurant's culinary delights.
Find out about an array of Luxembourg restaurants welcoming gourmands in the country in our special featured Food and restaurants section.
The brewery's eponymous creation, the Den Heischter beer, is a gem of unfiltered blonde delight. Boasting a primitively rich wort content of 12.2% and an alcohol content of 5.2%, this beer encapsulates the craftsmanship and dedication of its creators.
From the vibrant green hop beer to the intriguing Kroopemann’s beer and the evocative medieval beer, Den Heischter's repertoire paints a canvas of diversity that invites beer enthusiasts to study it.
Conceived in 2015, their brainchild was to create an independent local brewery that could stand apart from the giants. One of their best creations, The Sauvageonne, epitomizes their commitment to uniqueness. Crafted predominantly with ground ivy, a captivating plant that releases scents of mint and thyme when crushed, this beer embodies a botanical tapestry.
In 2016, driven by this ethos, they established Fox Drinks Brewery, embarking on nearly two years of relentless research and development to birth a beer that harmoniously marries taste and health consciousness.
What unites their diverse lineup is a shared trait every Fox Beer boasts a mere 30 calories per 100ml, a remarkable feat achieved by trimming down carbohydrates by a staggering 90% compared to standard beers.
Opening hours vary quite a lot from day to day, so it is better to reserve a table by phone. The brewery is usually open until midnight and a little later
Additionally, visitors highlight not only the high quality of the beer but also the excellent cuisine. Delicious snacks and dishes served at the brewery perfectly complement the drinks, creating an unforgettable gastronomic experience. The combination of remarkable beer and superb cuisine makes Brasserie Um Tennis an ideal place for those who want to spend time in a pleasant atmosphere, enjoying great food and drinks.
On Sundays the bar works from 12:00 till 23:00.
Visitors are welcome to drop by during opening hours to see which beers are featured on the guest taps while watching sports on the screens. For those who aren't beer drinkers, Crossfire offers a variety of other beverages to enjoy.
This place is perfect for socializing with friends while exploring the beer culture of countries like the UK, Spain, Brazil, Portugal, Poland, England, France, and Luxembourg, featuring local craft breweries such as Totenhopfen. To complement the drinks, they serve free potato chips and offer a cheese and ham board for purchase.
The shop’s minimalistic and small space means reservations are recommended. It’s easily accessible with a tram station right in front, making it convenient to drink responsibly. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, there’s a variety of non-alcoholic beers available. One standout recommendation is the Daily Nectar by Totenhopfen, known for its easy drinkability and unique character.
Which beers are worth trying in Luxembourg
If you're a fan of craft beer, check out products from the following breweries. If the price list does not specify the manufacturer, you can always ask the barman for details.
Twisted Cat brewery
In 2016, Twisted Cat originated in Tom and Alison's basement through extensive trial and error. Despite facing numerous setbacks, their beer testing sessions with friends and family yielded positive results, leading to the official launch of their IPA, "The Duke," in Luxembourg city center on June 22, 2018, which garnered widespread acclaim. Recognizing the potential of their product, Tom and Alison began forming a dedicated team of beer enthusiasts and advocates.
The onset of the Covid-19 pandemic disrupted Twisted Cat's original business strategy in early 2020, initially geared towards large-scale brewing for local hospitality venues. However, with the world grinding to a halt in March, they found themselves with an excess of hoppy Original Pale Ale. In a swift decision, they opted to can their beer and enter the retail market amidst the pandemic chaos.
But why the name "Twisted Cat"? It traces back to Tom and Alison's feline companion, Nonie, who frequented their basement brewing sessions. Intrigued by the process, Nonie indulged in the beer-in-progress, inspiring the playful moniker. The name reflects the essence of cats, embodying both their mischievousness and mysterious nature, while also symbolizing the intricate brewing process, akin to a cat's nine lives.
As global circumstances improved, Twisted Cat's opportunities for expansion and acclaim grew. Presently, they boast a robust team, widespread presence within and beyond the Grand Duchy, and notable achievements including international recognition and the inauguration of their long-awaited brewery and gastropub in Dudelange.
Totenhopfen
Transitioning from home to commercial brewing in 2017, Totenhopfen is poised to revolutionize Luxembourg's burgeoning brewing scene. With a remarkable array of awards, Totenhopfen has established a significant presence across various European countries, including Luxembourg, France, Germany, Belgium, The Netherlands, Portugal, Hungary, Austria, Bulgaria, Slovakia, and Lithuania.
Aiming to open its own Brewpub, Totenhopfen currently collaborates with different breweries throughout Europe, fostering connections across the continent. At Totenhopfen, we believe that craft beer enhances the quality of life. It’s about enjoyment, meeting new people, sharing experiences, socializing, and embracing constant challenges and surprises.
Totenhopfen's beers are celebrated not only for their innovative and well-balanced flavors but also for their visually captivating labels.
Craft beer festival in Luxembourg
Craft beer festivals of Luxembourg are where the magic of brewing collides with the thrill of celebration, creating an irresistible atmosphere that's sure to leave you craving for more. Among the stars of this annual lineup, the Luxembourg Craft Beer Festival in Kirchberg celebrates the nation's rich brewing heritage.
This festival transforms the heart of Kirchberg into a beer lover's paradise. The picturesque Central Park comes alive with a two-day spectacle, welcoming beer enthusiasts from all corners of the globe.
What awaits is a remarkable showcase of over 50 craft breweries hailing not only from the Grand Region but also from beyond, painting a tapestry of flavors that transcend borders. But the Luxembourg Craft Beer Festival offers more than just liquid delights.
An enticing food stall village entices with gastronomic treasures, an artisan quarter beckons with its creative offerings, and live DJ sets infuse the air with rhythm and energy. An alluring lineup of brewers, including names like Amager, Bevog, Christiania Bryghus, and more, promises an unforgettable journey through craft beer culture.
A dedicated kid-friendly zone ensures that families can share the fun of the event.
Make sure to mark this dynamic event on your calendar for next year, so you're primed and ready to raise a glass in the heart of Luxembourg's beer festival.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is craft beer, and why has it gained popularity in Luxembourg
Are there any local breweries in Luxembourg worth visiting
What is the future outlook for craft beer in Luxembourg
Can I purchase craft beer from local breweries in Luxembourg
What role does sustainability play in Luxembourg's craft beer scene
Source: luxembourg.public.lu, cornelyshaff.lu, ourdaller.lu, beierhaascht.lu, heischter-beier.lu, stuff-brauerei.lu, foxdrinks.lu, liquidbar.lu
We took photos from these sources: Jon Parry for Unsplash, brasseriesimon.lu Beierhaascht website Visit Luxebmourg website Satori Facebook Page Stuff Brauerei website Fox Drinks website Visitebrasserienationale website Den Heischter website Liquid Bar Facebook Page Kirchbéier Craft Beer Festival Facebook Page
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