The History of Beer in Romania - From Old Romanian Beer to Modern Brands
On a summer evening, on the terrace of a brewery in interwar Bucharest, glasses of Gambrinus clinked over stories, laughter and the smoke of freshly grilled meats. Behind this familiar image lies a fascinating history spanning millennia. From the first evidence of cereal fermentation in the Neolithic to today's modern industry, the history of beer in Romania reflects the evolution of our society and tastes. Let's explore this captivating story, following the transformation of Romanian beer from antiquity to the present day.
The Origins of Romanian Beer - A Journey Through Time
The roots of Romanian beer are lost in the mists of time. Although we cannot speak of a "beer" in the modern sense, archaeologists have discovered evidence of fermented cereal beverages consumed in what is now Romania since the Neolithic period, about 8 millennia ago.
A defining moment was the arrival of the Saxons in Transylvania in the 12th century. They brought with them the art of brewing beer, laying the foundations for a true culture of this drink in the Romanian space. One of the oldest beers in Romania attested in documents is that of the Cârța Monastery, dating back to 1205.
In the Middle Ages, beer production was already well established in Transylvania and the Romanian Principalities. Monasteries played an essential role in the cultivation of barley and the manufacture of beer. Documents from the 14th century mention the existence of "sladnice", rudimentary installations for the production of malt.
The 19th century brought a significant boost to the beer industry. Modern technologies were introduced, and the malt beverage gained increasing popularity. Breweries such as Azuga (1870), Rahova (1892) and Griviţa (1869) launched brands that quickly won the hearts of Romanians.
Today, we are witnessing a resurgence of craft beers and a growing appreciation for local brewing traditions. This journey through time shows us how beer has become an integral part of our culture and gastronomic heritage, continuing to evolve and adapt to contemporary tastes.
The first brewery in Romania - Industry pioneers
Moving from the ancestral origins of Romanian beer, we arrive at a crucial moment in the history of beer in Romania : the establishment of the first brewery in Romania . This event marked the transition from artisanal to industrial production , paving the way for the development of a thriving industry.
The story of the first brewery in Romania takes us back to 1718, when the Timișoreana Brewery was founded in the Fabric neighborhood of Timișoara. This moment marked the birth of large-scale organized beer production in our country.
The initiative belonged to the cavalry general Claudius Florimund Mercy, a key figure in the development of modern Timișoara. On November 4, 1717, the factory was leased to the entrepreneur Abraham Keppisch from Bratislava. In 1727, it appears in documents under the name "Kaiserliches Brauhaus" and is leased to Philip Bauer.
Over time, the brewery adapted to political and economic changes. In 1749, it was mentioned as the "Temesvárer Bräuhaus", and in 1779 it became the city's brewery, under the name "Temesvárer Bierbrauerei". This evolution reflects the brewery's growing importance in the economic and social life of Timișoara.
The emergence of the first factory was followed by the establishment of other breweries in the region: Caransebeș (1722), Orșova (1726), Lugoj (1752) and Lipova (1767). These developments significantly contributed to the growth of the beer industry in Banat and later throughout the country.
At that time, the right to open a brewery was not granted lightly. The emphasis was on the building itself, which had to be made of stone or brick to prevent fires. This underlines the prestige associated with beer production at the time.
The Timisoara Brewery has remained a pioneer of the industry throughout the centuries. In 1960, it became the second production unit in the world with full automation of its machinery, demonstrating its capacity for innovation and adaptation. Today, this historic brewery continues to produce beer, symbolizing both tradition and progress in the history of beer in Romania .
The evolution of Romanian beer in the 18th-19th centuries
With the establishment of the first brewery in Timișoara, the Romanian beer industry entered a new era of development and innovation. The 18th-19th centuries represented a period of transformation for beer in Romania , marked by the emergence of the first modern breweries and the diversification of production across the country.
In the 18th century, other important breweries emerged: Caransebeș (1722), Orșova (1726), Lugoj (1752) and Lipova (1767). These developments stimulated the growth of the beer industry in Banat and later throughout the country.
Transylvania has seen an interesting evolution in beer production . In 1782, a factory was established in Sibiu, and in 1797 the first brewery appeared in Cluj. These initiatives laid the foundations for a long tradition in the region.
The 19th century brought technological innovations that revolutionized production. A notable example is the Timisoara Brewery, which in 1920 replaced not only its production equipment but also its cold storage, switching from natural ice to Linde ammonia compressors.
During this period, old Romanian beer brands emerged that quickly became beloved: Azuga (1870), Rahova (1892), and Griviţa (1869). These brands laid the foundations for a thriving industry and contributed to the formation of a beer culture in Romania.
An important aspect of the evolution of Romanian beer was the development of hop cultivation. In 1860, its cultivation began in the surroundings of Cluj, followed by Sighișoara a decade later. Towards the end of the 19th century, Sighișoara became an important center of hop cultivation, with the establishment in 1891 of a department dedicated to its production.
This period of transformation and modernization laid the foundation for an industry that continues to evolve and adapt to this day, combining tradition with innovation in Romanian beer production .
Romanian beer during the communist period
After a period of development and innovation in the 18th and 19th centuries, the Romanian beer industry entered a new phase with the establishment of the communist regime. This era brought profound changes in beer production and consumption, reflecting the country's political and economic transformations.
The nationalization of factories in 1948, following Law No. 119, led to the disappearance of many traditional brands, although breweries continued to operate under other names.
Nicolae Ceaușescu implemented a plan to develop the beer industry at the expense of spirits. The goal was for each county to have a brewery with a capacity of 200,000 hl. At this time, 37 breweries were operating in Romania. Popular brands of the era included Rahova, Gambrinus, Grivița and Bucegi.
Some factories implemented automation of the production process. In 1960, the Timișoara Brewery became the second production unit in the world with complete automation of machinery.
Beer supplies were often problematic, reflecting the general economic difficulties. Consumers faced periodic shortages of beer in stores, bottles that did not always have their caps sealed tightly, and the need to pour beer "from the top" to create foam due to insufficient carbonation.
Despite these challenges, beer remained a popular drink during the communist era, playing an important role in Romanian social life. This era left a lasting mark on the beer industry, the effects of which are still felt today.
The renaissance of craft beer in post-1989 Romania
With the fall of the communist regime in 1989, the Romanian beer industry entered a new era of transformation and rebirth. This period marked the beginning of a new era for beer in Romania , characterized by diversification and innovation, with an emphasis on quality and authenticity.
A defining aspect of this renaissance has been the emergence of small craft brewers. These microbreweries have brought a different approach to large industrial breweries. They have introduced a variety of styles and flavors to the market, from traditional blonde and brown beers to IPAs and fruit beers.
Growing consumer interest in local and authentic products has played a crucial role in the development of the craft beer scene. This phenomenon coincided with a global trend of appreciation for craft beer, allowing Romanian brands to assert themselves in a market previously dominated by large international corporations.
Small producers faced challenges, such as difficulty in securing contracts with bars and restaurants, often tied to exclusive agreements with large companies. However, the quality of their products allowed them to find their niche in the market.
A distinctive aspect of this movement was the emphasis on natural ingredients and traditional manufacturing processes. In contrast to large-scale industrial production, craft brewers opted for methods that required more time and effort, but which resulted in products with a distinct character, just like Zăganu beers.
The impact of this renaissance extended beyond simple beer production. It helped create a new beer culture in Romania, educating consumers about the diversity of styles and brewing processes. Craft beer festivals became popular events, providing a platform for small producers to showcase their creations.
Despite challenges, including fierce competition and strict regulations, Romanian craft beer continues to thrive, and we are with it. This movement represents not only a return to the traditions of beer in Romania, but also an adaptation of them to the tastes and expectations of modern consumers.
Zăganu – The Pioneer of Modern Craft Beer in Romania
In the effervescent landscape of Romanian craft beer, Zăganu occupies a special place. Founded in 2013 by two young Romanian entrepreneurs, the Zăganu brewery was one of the first to bring back to the forefront the idea of locally produced, unfiltered and unpasteurized craft beer , with an emphasis on quality, character and tradition.
Located in the village of Măneciu-Ungureni, at the foot of the Ciucaș Mountains, the brewery takes its name from the mountain eagle of the same name – a symbol of freedom, authenticity and strength. Zăganu was one of the first craft brands to establish itself nationally, paving the way for dozens of other Romanian microbreweries .
One of the aspects that differentiated Zăganu from the beginning was the diversity and courage of the assortments launched . In a period when the market was dominated by industrial lager beers, Zăganu offered alternatives for various tastes, among the most popular being:
🍺 Blonde Zăganu – a light and balanced beer, perfect for starting your exploration of craft beer.
🍺 Zăganu Brună – rich, with notes of caramel and roasted malt, ideal for lovers of deep flavors.
🍺 Zăganu IPA – with an intense hop flavor and fruity accents, a hit among fans of the India Pale Ale style.
🍺 Zăganu Red Ale - an unpasteurized beer, reddish in color, with strong, floral, fruity aromas and a strong, full taste.
🍺 Zăganu Imperial Stout – a strong and full-bodied beer, with aromas of chocolate, coffee and a high alcohol content.
🍺 Zăganu Estival – a seasonal, light and refreshing edition, perfect for hot days.
Through involvement in events, collaborations with independent restaurants and bars, but also by educating the Romanian consumer, Zăganu has become an ambassador of authentic craft beer . The popularity of our beers has grown steadily, reaching not only specialty stores, but also large retail chains.
Today, Zăganu is not only a well-known name among craft beer lovers, but also a symbol of the rebirth of the Romanian beer industry , a bridge between traditional craft and modern tastes.
The cultural impact of beer in Romanian society
The evolution of modern Romanian beer brands reflects not only changes in the industry, but also broader transformations of Romanian society. Romanian Beer has played and continues to play a significant role in shaping Romanian culture and society, influencing the consumption habits and social interactions of Romanians.
During the interwar period, breweries became important places for socializing and exchanging ideas, especially in urban areas. Writers and intellectuals such as Ion Luca Caragiale often spent time in these locations, which became true cultural centers, playing a crucial role in the development of Romanian urban culture.
Romanian beer consumption is closely linked to social events and celebrations. At parties, weddings or other festive occasions, beer is often present as a staple drink. Especially in summer, summer gardens and beer terraces become focal points of social life in cities.
Beer is also associated with sports culture, especially football. Important matches are often watched with a beer, and sponsorships from beer producers have contributed to the development of Romanian sports.
In Romanian gastronomy, beer has found its place alongside traditional dishes such as micii or sausages. The association between beer and food has become an important part of the local culinary culture.
With the emergence of microbreweries in recent history, a new beer culture has developed in Romania. It emphasizes quality, diversity, and experimentation, attracting a growing audience of enthusiasts and connoisseurs.
Beer festivals, such as the Romanian Oktoberfest, have become important cultural events, attracting thousands of participants and promoting both Romanian beer and the traditions associated with it.
In rural areas, home brewing remains a tradition in some areas, closely linked to local festivals and rituals. This practice contributes to the preservation of ancient customs and cultural diversity.
The beer industry has also had a significant economic impact, creating jobs and contributing to the development of entire communities. Cities like Timisoara or Azuga have linked part of their local identity to the tradition of beer production.
Romanian beer has become more than just a drink, it is a complex cultural element, reflecting the evolution of Romanian society and continuing to play an important role in the social and economic life of the country. From its ancient origins to today's modern brands, Romanian beer remains an integral part of our cultural identity, constantly adapting to social and economic changes, while preserving its authentic essence.
Choose to be part of the new wave of Romanian beer culture. Discover the Zăganu craft beer assortments – an authentic combination of tradition and modern taste, carefully produced at the foot of the mountains. For those who appreciate Romanian craft beer. Unhurried. Since 2013.