In Italy, there is a wide variety of beer available to suit different tastes and preferences. While Italy may be more commonly associated with wine, the beer culture in the country has been steadily growing over the years. As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to explore and taste various Italian beers, and I am excited to share my experiences with you.
One of the oldest and most widespread breweries in Italy is Peroni, which has a rich history and is now owned by the Asahi group. Peroni offers a range of beers, including their popular brand Nastro Azzurro. Nastro Azzurro is a pale lager with a crisp and refreshing taste, making it a great choice for those who enjoy lighter and easy-drinking beers. It pairs well with traditional Italian dishes such as pasta and pizza.
Another well-known brewery in Italy is Birra del Borgo, which is now owned by InBev. Birra del Borgo is known for its innovative and experimental approach to brewing, pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles. They offer a diverse range of beers, from traditional Belgian-inspired ales to modern interpretations using local Italian ingredients. One of their signature beers, ReAle, is a hop-forward American-style pale ale with a bold and citrusy flavor profile.
In addition to these larger breweries, Italy also boasts a thriving craft beer scene with numerous smaller breweries producing high-quality and unique beers. One such brewery is Beba, located in the northern region of Lombardy. Beba focuses on using organic ingredients and traditional brewing techniques to create their beers. Their offerings range from classic styles such as pilsners and stouts to more experimental brews like sour beers and barrel-aged ales.
When it comes to beer styles, Italy offers a wide range to cater to different tastes. You can find traditional styles such as lagers, pilsners, and ales, as well as more adventurous and niche styles like sour beers, barrel-aged beers, and even Italian-inspired beers infused with local ingredients such as chestnuts or citrus fruits.
In my personal experience, I have had the pleasure of trying several Italian beers that have left a lasting impression on me. One such beer is Baladin's Nora, a spiced beer that incorporates ingredients such as ginger, myrrh, and orange peel. It was a truly unique and aromatic beer that paired beautifully with a spicy seafood dish I had at a local restaurant.
Another memorable beer I tried was from Birrificio Italiano, a brewery located in Lombardy. Their Tipopils is a classic Italian pilsner that showcases a perfect balance of crispness, hop bitterness, and malt sweetness. It was incredibly refreshing and reminded me of enjoying a cold beer on a sunny terrace in Italy.
The beer scene in Italy has come a long way in recent years, with a wide variety of breweries and beer styles to choose from. Whether you prefer traditional styles or experimental brews, there is something for everyone in the Italian beer landscape. So, next time you find yourself in Italy, I highly recommend exploring the local beer offerings and indulging in the diverse flavors and experiences they have to offer.