As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to explore the beer scene in Bulgaria extensively. When it comes to local lagers, there are a few notable brands that have gained popularity over the years.
Zagorka and Kamenitza are two of the most well-known breweries in Bulgaria, and they have been producing light lager beers for decades. These brands have become synonymous with Bulgarian beer and are widely consumed throughout the country.
Zagorka Brewery, founded in 1902, has a long-standing tradition of brewing quality lagers. Their flagship beer, Zagorka Special, is a pale lager known for its smooth and crisp taste. It has a light golden color, a mild hop bitterness, and a clean finish. This beer is often enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, and it has become a symbol of Bulgarian beer culture.
Kamenitza Brewery, on the other hand, has been producing lagers since 1881. Their Kamenitza 1881 Lager is a popular choice among beer enthusiasts in Bulgaria. It is a light and refreshing beer with a balanced flavor profile. It has a slightly sweet maltiness, a subtle hop aroma, and a clean, refreshing finish. Kamenitza 1881 Lager is often praised for its smoothness and drinkability.
While Zagorka and Kamenitza dominate the Bulgarian beer market, there has been a noticeable shift in recent years towards craft beers. The craft beer movement, which started in Western Europe and the United States, has slowly made its way to Bulgaria. This has led to the emergence of local craft breweries that are pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles.
One such brewery is White Stork Republic, located in Sofia. It was founded by a group of beer enthusiasts who wanted to bring the craft beer revolution to Bulgaria. They offer a range of unique and innovative beers, including lagers with a twist. For instance, their White Stork Lager is a modern interpretation of a classic lager, infused with local herbs and spices to create a distinct flavor profile.
Another notable craft brewery in Bulgaria is Rhombus Craft Brewery, also based in Sofia. They have gained a reputation for their high-quality lagers, such as their Rhombus Lager. This beer is brewed using traditional brewing techniques and carefully selected ingredients to achieve a well-balanced and flavorful lager.
It is worth mentioning that many of the brewmasters behind these craft breweries have either studied brewing abroad or have worked in the industry in other countries. This international exposure has helped them bring new and exciting flavors to the Bulgarian beer scene.
While Zagorka and Kamenitza remain the go-to choices for local lagers in Bulgaria, the craft beer revolution has started to make its mark. Local craft breweries like White Stork Republic and Rhombus Craft Brewery are introducing innovative lagers with unique flavor profiles, giving beer enthusiasts in Bulgaria more options to explore and enjoy. Whether it's a traditional lager or a craft creation, the local beer scene in Bulgaria continues to evolve and offer something for every beer lover.