Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan

Weihenstephan-logo

Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan is a brewery located in Freising, Bavaria, Germany. It is one of the oldest breweries in the world, with a history that dates back to the year 1040. The brewery is situated on the site of the former Weihenstephan Abbey, a Benedictine monastery.

History

The origins of Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan can be traced back to the establishment of the Weihenstephan Abbey in 725 AD by Saint Corbinian. The monks of the abbey began brewing beer as early as 768 AD, as evidenced by a document from that year which mentions a hop garden in the area. In 1040, the brewery was officially licensed by the City of Freising, marking the beginning of its commercial brewing operations.

Throughout the centuries, the brewery faced numerous challenges, including fires, plagues, and wars. Despite these adversities, it continued to operate and evolve. In 1803, during the secularization of Bavaria, the monastery was dissolved, and the brewery became a state-owned enterprise.

Brewing Tradition

Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan is renowned for its adherence to traditional brewing methods, particularly the Reinheitsgebot, also known as the German Beer Purity Law of 1516. This law mandates that beer can only be made from four ingredients: water, malt, hops, and yeast.

The brewery produces a wide range of beers, including Weissbier (wheat beer), Dunkel (dark beer), and Helles (pale lager). Some of its most popular products include Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier, Weihenstephaner Original, and Weihenstephaner Vitus.

Research and Education

Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan is closely associated with the Technical University of Munich (TUM), particularly its Weihenstephan campus. The brewery serves as a research and training facility for students studying brewing and beverage technology. This collaboration ensures that the brewery remains at the forefront of brewing science and innovation.

Cultural Significance

The brewery is not only a producer of high-quality beer but also a cultural landmark in Bavaria. It attracts visitors from around the world who come to tour the historic site, learn about the brewing process, and sample its renowned beers. The brewery's beer garden and restaurant offer a quintessential Bavarian experience, complete with traditional food and drink.

See Also

• Beer in Germany
• List of oldest companies
• Reinheitsgebot
• Technical University of Munich
• Weihenstephan Abbey