As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that the most popular beer in Serbia is Jelen, closely followed by Lav. These two domestic brands have gained a strong foothold in the Serbian beer market and are widely consumed by locals.
Jelen, which means “deer” in Serbian, has become synonymous with Serbian beer culture. It is a pale lager that is known for its crisp and refreshing taste. The brand has a long history, dating back to 1764, and has managed to maintain its popularity over the years. Jelen is often the go-to choice for many Serbians when it comes to enjoying a cold beer with friends or during social gatherings.
Lav, on the other hand, is another well-known Serbian beer brand. It was first introduced in 1994 and quickly gained popularity among beer enthusiasts. Lav also produces a pale lager, similar to Jelen, and has built a strong brand presence in the Serbian market. The beer is known for its smooth and balanced flavor profile, making it a favorite among many locals.
While Jelen and Lav dominate the domestic beer scene in Serbia, there are also several foreign beer brands available in the market. These include popular international brands like Heineken, Carlsberg, and Guinness. These foreign brands are often imported and distributed in Serbia, catering to those who prefer the taste of well-known global beer brands.
In addition to imported brands, some foreign beers are also produced locally under license. This means that the Serbian beer market offers a variety of options for beer enthusiasts, ranging from traditional domestic brands to international favorites.
It is worth mentioning that while pale lager has been the traditional beer choice for Serbians, there is also a growing interest in other beer styles. Dark lagers, for example, have gained popularity in recent years, although they are produced in smaller quantities compared to pale lagers. These darker beers offer a richer and more complex flavor profile, appealing to those seeking a different beer experience.
Jelen and Lav are the most popular beer brands in Serbia, with Jelen having a longer history and stronger association with Serbian beer culture. However, the Serbian beer market also offers a variety of imported and locally produced foreign brands, catering to different preferences. Whether it's a crisp and refreshing pale lager or a more robust dark lager, there is a beer option for every beer lover in Serbia.