Ostravar Brewery

Ostravar Brewery is a prominent brewery located in Ostrava, a city in the Czech Republic. Founded in 1897, it has a rich history of brewing traditional Czech lagers. The brewery is renowned for its adherence to the classic Czech brewing methods, which emphasize the quality of ingredients, particularly the hops and malt, and the meticulous brewing process.

History

The foundation of Ostravar Brewery in 1897 was driven by the booming industrial growth in Ostrava, which created a demand for quality beer. Initially, the brewery focused on producing a limited range of lagers, catering to the local population. Over the years, it expanded its production capabilities and product range, becoming one of the most respected breweries in the Czech Republic.

During the 20th century, Ostravar Brewery underwent several modernizations to keep up with technological advancements while maintaining its traditional brewing methods. It survived the tumultuous periods of both World Wars and the communist era, during which it was nationalized. After the Velvet Revolution in 1989, the brewery was privatized and has since continued to thrive, combining its rich heritage with modern brewing techniques.

Products

Ostravar Brewery is best known for its classic Czech lagers, which are brewed according to the original recipes and methods. The product line includes:

• Ostravar Original - A flagship lager with a balanced taste and a golden color.
• Ostravar Premium - A stronger lager with a richer flavor, catering to those who prefer a more robust beer.
• Ostravar Dark - A dark lager that combines the traditional malt flavors with a hint of caramel.

The brewery also produces seasonal and special edition beers, which are highly anticipated by beer enthusiasts.

Brewing Process

The brewing process at Ostravar Brewery adheres to the traditional Czech methods, which involve:

• Selecting the finest quality hops and malt.
• Using soft water, which is ideal for brewing lagers.
• Employing the decoction mashing technique, a traditional method that enhances the beer's flavor.
• Long fermentation periods at low temperatures, followed by extended lagering times to achieve the perfect balance and clarity.

Cultural Impact

Ostravar Brewery is not just a producer of beer; it is a cultural icon in Ostrava and the Czech Republic. The brewery is a symbol of the region's industrial heritage and its transition into a modern era. It plays a significant role in promoting Czech brewing traditions both domestically and internationally.

The brewery also contributes to the local community through sponsorships and by hosting beer festivals and tours, which attract visitors from around the world. These events offer an insight into the brewery's history, its brewing process, and the art of beer tasting.

See Also

• Beer in the Czech Republic
• Lager
• Brewing
• Czech cuisine