De Alchemia: The Art of Craft Beer in the Heart of the Pollino National Park
In the evocative setting of the Pollino National Park, in Saracena, province of Cosenza, stands the craft brewery De Alchemia, founded in 2015 from the idea of Guido Gagliardi, supported by his brother Biagio and friend Marco Giangreco. De Alchemia is not just a brewery: it is a laboratory of innovation where tradition and experimentation come together to create exclusive beers with a strong territorial character.
The name itself, De Alchemia, evokes the magic of transformation and the constant search for balance, symbolized by the ouroboros, a snake biting its own tail. This emblem embodies the brewery’s philosophy: a continuous renewal rooted in the past while projecting into the future, as happens in every stage of production.
Excellent Raw Materials and Signature Beers
A distinctive element of De Alchemia is the skillful use of local raw materials, carefully selected to enhance the Calabrian territory. Among the most emblematic ingredients are:
- Sibari rice, which imparts lightness and roundness;
- IGP lemon peels from Rocca Imperiale, a fragrant and citrusy expression of the land;
- cedar and bergamot, unique citrus fruits of the region;
- ancient grains grown in Saracena.
These typical products give De Alchemia’s beers an authentic and unmistakable character, capable of telling the story of Calabria with every sip.
Production spans different styles, always maintaining a balance that ensures drinkability and pleasantness. Among the most beloved references are:
- Cuore di Tenebra, a dark and enveloping Cascadian Dark Ale;
- Anime, a red Belgian Pale Ale style, intense and aromatically complex;
- Schizophrenic, an amber Pale Ale with a lively character;
- Ma Boheme, a clear, fresh, and refreshing pilsner;
- Lunare, a blanche made with ancient Saracena grain and Piretto di Civita, a rare native citrus;
- Welcome to Sibari, an elegant Saison with Sibari rice, IGP lemon peels, and a touch of salt.
Each beer carries a story of passion, creativity, and respect for the territory.
A particularly interesting project is Trip In Barrique, born from the collaboration with the beer firm Maltonauta. Here, the beers mature in barrels that once held fine Calabrian wines, enriching them with complex and original aromatic notes.
For those wishing to experience a complete journey, the brewery offers guided tours that allow visitors to follow all production stages live and taste the different labels directly on site. A must for enthusiasts who want to immerse themselves in a world of scents, tastes, and traditions.
The De Alchemia brewery, located at II Trav. Via Giorgio La Pira in Saracena, thus confirms itself as an essential destination for those who want to discover a craft beer that is a true expression of the Calabrian territory, capable of combining innovation and identity in a bottle.
