France Beer

France has traditionally been a country where wine was the star drink. However, beer is also very popular in the country; in France, there is a wide range of craft beers that enjoy great recognition, both nationally and internationally.

In the 1990s there were around 40 breweries in France; currently, there are more than 600. Since July 18, 2014, French beer is inscribed in the gastronomic heritage of the country, along with wine, spirits and cider.

If there is a place in France where beer is really important it is Alsace, where this is the local drink. There is even a remarkable Beer Fair every year.

Brasseries Kronenbourg, the first French brewery

Brasseries Kronenbourg is the first French company specialized in brewing. It was founded by Jérôme Hatt in 1664 in Strasbourg under the name Cannon. Both the recipe and the brewing process was passed from generation to generation. It was in 1922 when the Brewery changed its name to Tiger Brewery. Once World War II ended, it took the name "Kronenbourg".

At first, this French brewery made ales, although currently it is specialized in lager beers. Right now it has several breweries in France, located in Obernai and Champigneulles.

It currently has several brands. One of the most popular is Kronenbourg 1664, considered by many as a high-end beer. With a slight taste of malt, it is elaborated following the traditional recipe. There is also the “1664 Brune”, which is a stronger version of the previous one; ideal for those who want to enjoy the bitterness of a good beer on their palate.

Another beer also very popular is Kronenbourg Blanc; as its name suggests, it is white in colour and has a strong fruity and citrus flavour: a totally different beer. French beers are a real pleasure for lovers of this drink.