Spaten is indeed owned by the Anheuser-Busch-InBev brewery group. As a beer writer and enthusiast, I can provide some insights into the history and significance of Spaten in the world of beer.
Spaten is a renowned German brewery that has a long and rich history dating back to 1397. It is located in Munich, the capital city of Bavaria, which is widely regarded as one of the world's beer capitals. Spaten has played a significant role in shaping the brewing traditions and innovations of the region.
One of the most notable periods in Spaten's history was during the 19th century when it made significant contributions to the development of lager beer. Lager, a type of beer that is fermented and conditioned at low temperatures, was a style that revolutionized the brewing world. Spaten, along with a few other breweries in Munich, played a pivotal role in refining and popularizing this style.
The beer writer Michael Jackson, not to be confused with the late pop musician, considered Spaten as the most significant brewery in the history of lager beer due to its innovations during this era. While I do not personally share the same level of expertise as Jackson, I can appreciate the impact that Spaten had on lager beer.
During my visits to Munich, I had the pleasure of sampling Spaten's beers, and I must say they were exceptional. The brewery is known for its range of lagers, including the famous Spaten Oktoberfest, which is brewed specifically for the annual Oktoberfest celebration held in Munich. The beer has a rich amber color, a malty backbone, and a clean, crisp finish – a true representation of the Bavarian brewing tradition.
However, it is important to note that Spaten's ownership has changed over the years. In 2003, Spaten merged with another Munich-based brewery, Franziskaner, to form the Spaten-Franziskaner-Bräu. This merger allowed the breweries to consolidate their operations and expand their reach in the global market.
In 2004, the Spaten-Franziskaner-Bräu was acquired by InBev, a Belgian-Brazilian brewing company. InBev later merged with Anheuser-Busch in 2008 to form the Anheuser-Busch-InBev (AB InBev) brewery group, which is currently the largest beer company in the world.
As with any acquisition, there may be concerns about changes in quality or traditional brewing methods. However, it is worth noting that AB InBev has a diverse portfolio of breweries under its umbrella and has generally maintained the integrity and authenticity of the brands it owns. Spaten's beers continue to be brewed in Munich, adhering to the traditional brewing techniques that have made them renowned.
Spaten is indeed owned by the Anheuser-Busch-InBev brewery group. While ownership changes can sometimes raise concerns, Spaten's rich history and contributions to the world of lager beer cannot be dismissed. The brewery's beers continue to be highly regarded and enjoyed by beer enthusiasts around the world.