The city of Munich in Bavaria is one thriving with culture; From having a champion’s league winning football team to the vibrant city markets, Munich is the symbol of south German culture and lifestyle. One aspect of the city however stands out from the rest, and that is beer. The city practically revolves around drinking beer, whether its sinking countless 'Maßes' at Oktoberfest or sipping an authentic 'Weißbier' in a picturesque Biergarten at one of several notable breweries - beer is certainly the pinnacle of Munich's culture. The majority of the beers in all the restaurants, shops and pubs are local; and are supplied by six major breweries who have all made there name on account of their own beer's unique taste and history. However, the one which seemed the most fitting to explore is the Paulaner brewery.
The Paulaner brewery:
We ought to start from the beginning, in the 17th century. All the way back in 1634, the monks in Munich had been drinking an unknown strong beer named 'Paulaner Salvator' which they would unofficially give to the peasants and the general public in the city. Fast forward to 1751, after countless pleads to officialise the beer, the monks are finally allowed to sell their beer on the day celebrating their father, Salvator. Even in the 21st century a ritual still takes place where the Bavarian minister president is handed the first litre measure of 'Salvator' at the start of the Munich Starkbierfest (strong beer festival). The brand continued to grow into the 1800's and was granted its first beer tents at the Oktoberfest. This enabled the brand to further deliver its upcoming brew and help to stimulate a large growth in popularity. However, the continued selling of, and popular demand for, Paulaner didn’t stop it from being bombed in WWII, and the brewery was partially destroyed. Despite this setback, Paulaner has resurrected itself and now even has an Oktoberfest beer tent in which the beer is fed to the customers through an underground loop pipeline.
But they're not just a brewery founded by monks and supported by many thirsty Germans, did I not mention that Paulaner are the proud supporters of F.C Bayern Munich? They devote a huge chunk of their produce to the team, donating an astonishing 100 litres of beer to FC Bayern fans for every goal the team makes in the Bundesliga. And seeing as Bayern are capable of firing 11 goals past some teams, the fans most definitely have a plentiful supply of it.
The Paulaner brewery really is the pinnacle of German beer producers, and it is clearly recognised globally as it now exports its authentic Weißbiers and regular brews to over 70 countries all around the world, firmly establishing itself as one of, if not the most notable brewery in Bavaria and even in Germany.
