Guggenbräu Agribrewing Company: Craft Beer from the Heart of South Tyrol
In the enchanting mountain setting of South Tyrol, at an altitude of 960 meters, lies Guggenbräu, an agribrewing company that combines tradition and innovation in the municipality of San Genesio Atesino, precisely at Via Avigna 31. The Guggenberger farmstead, home to the Stuefer family for over 200 years, is a place full of history: its origins date back to 1389 and, although it was once dedicated to livestock farming and dairy production for the local Bolzano markets, today it is the cradle of a refined beer production that blends nature, passion, and territory.
The inspiration for the beer comes from the wild hops that grew spontaneously on the farm’s walls and from the possibility of directly cultivating barley and wheat in the surrounding agricultural fields. In 2019, seven varieties of aromatic hops were introduced, a fundamental addition to enrich the complexity and quality of the beers produced. Since 2020, Guggenbräu has begun sharing its beers with enthusiasts, obtaining in 2021 the prestigious “Gallo Rosso” quality mark, a symbol of controlled raw materials and careful production. In 2023, the Festweissbier Guggosauerus won third place at the Beer of the Year award, a recognition that celebrates the brewery’s artisanal excellence.
Six Craft Beers for Every Taste
Guggenbräu offers a catalog of six classic beers, available year-round, each with unique characteristics able to satisfy every palate:
- Summerfrische: a 3.2% session Kellerpils, fresh, light, and naturally cloudy; with fruity notes and a delicate bitterness, perfect as an aperitif or with salads and light dishes.
- Guggenhell: a 4.7% blonde Kellerbier, soft with aromas of malt, melon, and red berries; ideal to accompany white meats, dumplings, and typical South Tyrolean specialties.
- Guggenweisse: a 5% multi-grain Weiss, with a spicy character from yeast and a slight banana note; very refreshing, pairs well with fish, sushi, and delicate risottos.
- Guggendunkel: a 4.7% dark Kellerbier, sweet and malty, with hints of sponge cake, caramel, and chocolate; the right choice to accompany goulash, smoked products, and moderately aged cheeses.
- Hopfenliab: a 5.2% Pale Ale, with exotic aromas from “Callista,” “Mandarina Bavaria,” and “Ariana” hops; full-bodied and intensely bitter, perfectly matches pizzas, spicy dishes, and grilled meat.
- Craftvoll: a 5.6% Brown Ale, red and full-bodied, made with ancient grains such as emmer and South Tyrolean rye; a perfect balance between fruity notes and bitterness that pairs well with red meat and hearty dishes.
Unique Experiences in the Guggenbräu World
Besides producing quality beer, Guggenbräu offers several opportunities to fully experience the brewing culture of South Tyrol:
- Guided tastings at the farm, with in-depth tours and tastings led by sommelier Matthias.
- Beer hikes to discover the Guggenberg alpine pasture, with itineraries through nature, traditional lunches, and tastings.
- Production days, where you can actively participate in the brewing process, learn the secrets of the raw materials, and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
These engaging experiences allow you to discover not only Guggenbräu’s craft beer but also the authentic soul of a territory rich in history, flavor, and traditions.
