Opificio delle Saline: The Craft Brewery in the Heart of the Volterra Salt Pans
In the evocative and historic setting of the Volterra Salt Pans, at Via delle Moie Vecchie 9, stands the Opificio delle Saline, also known as Birrificio BOS. This craft brewery occupies a unique position in the world, being the first brewery located inside an active salt pan, a perfect combination of ancient tradition and brewing innovation.
The choice of this location is no accident: the Volterra Salt Pans produce an extraordinarily pure salt, with a purity of 99.9%, recognized as one of the most prized and sought-after ingredients in the Italian gastronomic scene. It is precisely this exclusive salt that becomes the distinctive signature of BOS beers, enhancing every sip with a unique and authentic flavor.
Tradition, Innovation, and Sustainability in the Heart of Volterra
The beating heart of Opificio delle Saline is master brewer Emanuele Basta, originally from Varese, who brought his experience and passion for craft brewing directly to Volterra. His skill in combining classical tradition with innovative techniques has given life to high-quality beers, where each recipe is designed to highlight the distinctive element of Volterra salt without ever overpowering the original aromas.
The production process is a virtuous example of circular economy: the water obtained from the evaporation of brine is recovered and reused in production, reducing environmental impact and optimizing local resources. This sustainable approach blends with the passion for quality, creating a product that respects the environment and is rooted in the territory.
The beers produced by BOS range from classic styles such as:
- IPA
- Kölsch
- Tripel
- Weiss
- Stout
to unique creations from the ColosSale line, characterized by the unmistakable presence of Volterra salt which enriches the flavor profile without disturbing its balance.
An Experience to Live and Taste
For beer enthusiasts and those wishing to discover the deep connection between a territory and its products, Opificio delle Saline offers guided tours by reservation during the weekend. These tours include:
- A visit to the production facility
- A tasting of BOS craft beers
- Sampling of local typical products
Inside the Opificio there is also the Emporio del Sale, a special place where it is possible to purchase not only the beers but also food products made with the precious Volterra salt, such as chocolate and other delicacies, perfect for bringing home a piece of this authentic experience or to give as an original gift.
In the heart of a landscape rich in history and nature, Opificio delle Saline represents a model of Italian excellence: a meeting point between ancient roots and new productive languages that exalt the value of the territory, sustainability, and artisanal quality.
