Crafting Great Beer for Everyone: The Forgotten Women of Czech Brewing

In the heart of České Budějovice, the national brewery of the Czech Republic, Budweiser Budvar, has been perfecting their award-winning lager for over a century. The city itself has brewing traditions dating back to 1265. But hidden within the annals of history is the tale of the women who once dominated the brewing industry in Bohemia.

Budvar’s latest campaign aims to shed light on this forgotten narrative and remind beer enthusiasts that “Great Beer [Is] For Everyone.” The brand commissioned a short film that showcases three talented women from different sectors of the beer industry in Czechia. The stars of the film include Magda Hoppová, a celebrated beertender and brewer from Prague; Jitka Ilčíková Joith, the founder of Wild Creatures brewery in Moravia, who is reviving the art of spontaneously fermented wild ales; and Johana Potužníková, the mastermind behind craft partnerships for Budvar.

While the beer industry continues to be male-dominated, the film serves as evidence of shifting trends in both Czechia and beyond. In the United Kingdom, a recent report highlighted that 32% of women now enjoy beer at home with friends, a significant increase from just 3% 14 years ago. Furthermore, an overwhelming majority of these women base their purchasing decisions on where the beer is brewed. This bodes well for Czechia, a region famously known as the “Republic of Beer.”

A trip to the Budvar cellars in České Budějovice is a must for beer enthusiasts. The renowned cellars provide a balanced representation of both men and women who embark on an hour-long pilgrimage through the icy-cold caves. What awaits them is a firsthand experience of the unparalleled taste and freshness of unpasteurized lager. Some of these lagers have been aged for months, offering a unique and flavorful experience.

The Budvar tour not only delights visitors with its exceptional beer but also highlights the precision with which this style of beer has been brewed for centuries. It’s an opportunity to savor a small sample of beer history for a modest price of $7. The tours run daily from 9 am to 5 pm, ensuring that beer enthusiasts can embark on this immersive experience at their convenience.

Budweiser Budvar, situated on the outskirts of České Budějovice, is easily accessible, just a two-hour train ride from Prague. Upon arrival, mugs are provided for visitors to fully indulge in the flavors of the brewery. And if you’re fortunate enough to encounter Magda Hoppová during your visit, she may even impart her knowledge on pouring the perfect Šnyt, a treat not to be missed.

So, let’s celebrate the great beer that transcends gender and embrace the rich history of women’s contributions to brewing. Budweiser Budvar’s campaign is a reminder that beer is for everyone, and the art of brewing holds stories that should never be forgotten. Cheers to a taste of history, an experience that awaits beer lovers in the heart of Czechia.