What makes bohemian beer unique? A journey through centuries of brewing

As the nights draw in and menus turn towards warm, comforting flavours, the drinks we choose to pair with food also evolve. While darker ales and spiced brews often take centre stage in colder months, there is another beer style with centuries of expertise behind it that deserves attention: Bohemian lager.

The Czech Republic is a beer-loving nation, standing proudly alongside Ireland and Germany in its brewing heritage. Beer drinking throughout the Czech lands goes far beyond modern social habits and is deeply rooted in the country’s culture and history. Traditionally, beer was believed to encourage a sense of well-being and even promote health. For this reason, Czech breweries have always taken meticulous care in sourcing ingredients and perfecting their processes to preserve the highest standards of quality.

Beer brewing in Bohemia began in the early Middle Ages, driven largely by monks who produced it within their monasteries. However, it was in 1842 that Czech beer became truly world-renowned when the Pilsen Burgher Brewery produced the first batch of bottom-fermented lager. Its clarity, flavour and drinkability set a new global standard, inspiring breweries worldwide to imitate the style.

The late 18th century was the golden age of Czech brewing. Fuelled by the industrial revolution, Bohemia became one of the first regions in mainland Europe to combine modern technology, brewing education and expertise in hop and barley cultivation.

The Second World War brought devastation to the industry, with 121 breweries destroyed, 63% of hop fields lost, and nearly 30% of barley cultivation wiped out. Despite these challenges, Czech brewing endured. Today, the country produces over 20 million hectolitres of beer each year, exporting more than 5 million hectolitres globally. This resilience reflects a brewing heritage that stretches back centuries, with some of the oldest brands still carrying their traditions forward.

One of the most notable examples is Krušovice. Its story is deeply tied to this rich heritage. In 1581, a small brewery in the heart of Bohemia caught the attention of King Rudolf II, a bold and eccentric ruler known for his love of the arts, sciences and all things extraordinary. Captivated by the beer’s exceptional quality, he purchased the brewery, making Krušovice the only beer ever owned by the Czech Royal Family. More than 400 years later, Krušovice is still brewed with the same dedication to quality and tradition, using only the finest Czech ingredients, including the world-renowned Saaz hops. These carefully selected ingredients create the balanced flavour profile that defines Krušovice, full-bodied yet crisp and clean.

While light lagers are often associated with summer, Czech beers with their gentle bitterness and fuller character are an ideal choice for the colder months. Their rounded profile pairs beautifully with hearty seasonal dishes such as beef hotpot, roast chicken or vegetable casseroles, complementing without overpowering.