Birra Korça: Albania’s First Beer and a Cultural Icon

Nestled in the picturesque city of Korçë, Albania, Birra Korça stands as a testament to the country's rich brewing heritage. Established in 1928, it holds the distinction of being Albania's first brewery, blending traditional methods with modern innovations to produce beers that have become synonymous with Albanian culture.Mindtrip

A Legacy Brewed Over Decades

Birra Korça's journey began in 1928 when Italian investor Umberto Umberti and local entrepreneur Selim Mborja collaborated to establish the brewery. With an initial capital of 950,000 gold francs, they set up a facility that produced Blonde Ale, Dark Ale, bottled water named "Kristal," and ice. The brewery's strategic location at the foot of the Morava Mountain provided access to pristine water sources, a key ingredient in crafting high-quality beer.

Throughout its history, Birra Korça has navigated various political and economic landscapes. Following World War II, the brewery was nationalized under the communist regime. Despite the challenges, it underwent several reconstructions in the 1950s and 1960s, gradually increasing production. In 2004, businessman Irfan Hysenbelliu acquired the brewery and invested €15 million in its renovation, incorporating the latest Czech and Italian technologies. Today, Birra Korça produces 120,000 hectoliters of beer annually, ten times the output of the original facility. Wikipedia

The Beers: A Symphony of Flavors

Birra Korça offers a diverse range of beers that cater to various palates:

• Korça Blonde Ale: A European-style pilsner with 4.8-5% alcohol by volume, known for its crisp and refreshing taste.

• Korça Dark Ale: A Euro dark lager (dunkel) with 5-5.2% ABV, offering a rich and robust flavor profile.

• Korça Gold: A premium beer that combines traditional brewing methods with a unique blend of ingredients, resulting in a distinctive taste.

These beers are available in various packaging, including 0.5-liter and 0.33-liter bottles, as well as 30-liter and 50-liter kegs.

Practical Information

• Location: Korçë, Albania

• Website: birrakorca.com.al

• Korça Beer Fest 2024: Scheduled from August 14 to August 18, 2024.

For more information, visit their official website: birrakorca.com.al

Korça Beer Fest: A Celebration of Culture and Flavor

Every August, the city of Korçë transforms into a hub of festivity during the Korça Beer Fest, Albania's largest and most celebrated beer festival. The event attracts over 100,000 attendees, featuring more than 40 breweries, live music performances, and a variety of cultural activities. The festival not only showcases Birra Korça but also promotes a lively and welcoming environment for all attendees.

The 2024 edition of the festival is scheduled from August 14 to August 18, promising an unforgettable experience for beer enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

For those interested in exploring the roots of Birra Korça, the brewery offers tours that provide insights into its rich history and brewing process. Visitors can also enjoy freshly tapped beer in the brewery's beer garden, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Morava Mountain.