1. Budějovický Budvar Beer
In the Czech Republic, Budějovický Budvar is a unique brewery as it is the only one owned by the state. Often mentioned among the top three beers of the Czech Republic, alongside Pilsner Urquell and Kozel, Budvar Beer has a distinguished reputation. Given that the Czech Republic has the highest per capita beer consumption in the world, it’s understandable that the state-run brewery places a significant emphasis on the quality and taste of its beer.
Adhering to the German Beer Purity Law, Budějovický Budvar is brewed using only four ingredients: barley, hops, water, and yeast. The brewery utilizes Žatec (Saaz) hops, known for being a premium lager ingredient, and Moravian barley, famous for its high quality. The water used in the brewing process comes from a natural glacial source located 300 meters underground. Additionally, the brewery employs its unique strain of yeast.
While most breweries have a maturation period of 3 to 4 weeks, Budějovický Budvar beer undergoes a lengthy 90-day maturation process, highlighting the brewery’s commitment to quality. Notably, Budějovický Budvar is also known for its trademark dispute with the American Budweiser.
2. Budvar
1) Trademark Dispute with Budweiser
The name “Budweiser” originates from the German reading of “Budějovický,” indicating beer from the Budweis region. The founder of Budweiser in the United States took the recipe from Budvar and achieved significant success, securing the Budweiser trademark in the U.S.
This was not a concern until the 1990s when globalization led to disputes over the Budweiser trademark. Today, the right to use the Budweiser name varies by country, depending on the outcome of legal battles.
2) Tasting Notes
The beer presents a rich golden color with abundant carbonation. It features a thick and flavorful foam. The aroma of fresh Saaz hops and malt is particularly appealing, suggesting a robust and bitter flavor profile reminiscent of Pilsner Urquell.
The taste includes a pleasant balance of carbonation and rich foam, with the hop flavor meeting expectations. However, the actual drinking experience differs from the anticipated bitterness, transitioning to a nutty malt flavor with a clean finish. This crisp aftertaste is notably satisfying.
3) Product Information
Product Name: Budějovický Budvar Beer
Type of Food: Beer
Ingredients: Water, malt, hops
Origin: Czech Republic
Alcohol and Volume: 5%, 500ml
Manufacturer: Budejovický Budvar n.p.
3. Overall Review
Budvar Beer is a flavorful lager with rich carbonation and foam, characterized by its clean aftertaste. Initially, its unique profile may raise questions, but its appeal grows with each sip. The beer embodies both light, crisp aspects and the intense bitterness of hops, making it versatile for pairing with food.
The clean finish makes it particularly suited for dining, enhancing the dining experience by complementing a wide range of dishes. The bitterness of the Saaz hops also stimulates the appetite, making it an excellent choice for meal accompaniment.
The intention to repurchase is definite, and there’s a curiosity to compare it further with other Czech beers.