Mikkeller beer was founded by Mikkel Borg Bjergsø in 2006. Mikkel, a former math and physics teacher, began his brewing journey as a homebrewer in his kitchen in Copenhagen, Denmark. He started experimenting with different recipes and brewing techniques, and soon his beers gained recognition for their unique and innovative flavors.
Mikkel's passion for brewing and his desire to push the boundaries of beer led him to establish Mikkeller as a brand. The name “Mikkeller” is a combination of his first name, Mikkel, and the Danish word for “cellar,” reflecting his initial brewing experiments in his basement.
One of the distinguishing characteristics of Mikkeller is the absence of a physical brewery. Instead, Mikkel collaborates with various breweries around the world to produce his beers. This approach allows him to work with different brewers, utilize their expertise, and create a wide range of beers with diverse flavors and styles.
Mikkel's creativity and willingness to experiment have resulted in a vast and ever-expanding beer portfolio. Mikkeller offers an extensive selection of styles, ranging from traditional Belgian ales to hop-forward IPAs, barrel-aged stouts, sour beers, and even wine and spirits collaborations. This constant exploration and innovation have made Mikkeller a household name in the craft beer scene.
In addition to brewing, Mikkeller has also expanded into the world of bars and restaurants. Mikkel opened his first beer bar, Mikkeller Bar, in Copenhagen in 2010, and it quickly became a popular destination for beer enthusiasts. Today, Mikkeller bars can be found in cities around the world, including San Francisco, Tokyo, Seoul, and Bangkok, among others.
Mikkel Borg Bjergsø's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to pushing the boundaries of beer have made him a highly respected figure in the craft beer industry. His ability to create unique and exciting flavors, combined with his commitment to quality, has earned Mikkeller a loyal following of beer lovers worldwide.
As a personal note, I have had the pleasure of trying several Mikkeller beers over the years, and each one has been a delightful experience. The creativity and attention to detail that Mikkel puts into his beers are evident in the complex flavors and aromas they exhibit. From the rich and decadent stouts to the crisp and refreshing IPAs, Mikkeller consistently delivers exceptional quality and an unforgettable drinking experience.