| From Bamberg Germany I drove to the Czech Republic city of Plzen also known as Pilsen. This region of the world is the origins of the Pilsner style of lager beer. Pilsner lager style uses a malted barley that has been lightly malted making it much paler in color than other malted brewers grains and a regional yeast strain that have the bottom fermenting characteristics of lager yeast. Before I traveled to Pilsen I contacted the breweries of the city through email to see if any of them would be able to meet with me. I received no reply though the number of breweries still located in the city are small. The main brewery of Plzen in size and market share is the macro brewery Pilsner Urquell. Pilsner Urquell is best known for the pilsner lager that is distributed all over the world in their iconic green glass bottles with red wax letter seal logo. The inner city of Plzen is much like the city of Cologne in that historically many small breweries existed in the inner city. Through throughout the years of war, economic growth, technology and local and world commerce that has changed. The inner city is home to only one micro brewery Privovar Groll I was not able to meet with their brewers. Though did have the chance to meet the owner for a short period of time in her hectic schedule. The brewery produces a small range of beers that are sold primarily through their own restaurant and bar. Located next to the eastern river of the inner city the breweries beer garden offer beautiful views and waiter service. The city of Plzen is more than just a destination for beer drinkers and historical location for the brewing industry. The city is a vibrant cultural destination of the Czech Republic and is home to world leading universities, organizations, beautiful architecture and art. While I was in Plzen I was able to experience some of the local culture. I stayed at a camping ground next to a lake on the north western side of the city that was popular amongst the locals at the time of the season due to the with skies and warm water that made for an escape from the hussle and bussle of the inner city. Taking a cab to the Plzen city center during the day while visiting some of the landmarks in the area I found my self part of an audience at the Cathedral of St. Bartholomew listening to the local childrens choir. Below is a short video. Later in the day I found myself at the main University in the cities grass court yard having a beer in the sun with some of the local student while they were between their studies. The entire experience of the city of Plzen was nothing but enjoyable and I look forwards to making my way back there in the coming years. While planning your travels around Europe and to the Czech Republic make a point to visit the city of Plzen (Pilsen). For more information about the city and what it has to offer your travels visit their online tourism site at: http://www.czechtourism.com/a/pilsen-area/ |
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AuthorStarting working in the craft beer industry several years ago in Scotland UK, while research the marketing and management of craft breweries, Schuyler Ward continues to work in the craft beer industry while networking building the collaborative network to improve the beverage industry. Archives
June 2015
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