The Beer Culture of Italy
Fancy a bru’ski? Have you ever tried an Italian beer?
Though many people often think of wine when they think of Italy, there is actually a large beer culture in the country. Within Italian culture, it’s even thought that Italian beer goes best with things like pizza. So, here are some of the best Italian beer brands and some facts.
The Top 5 Most Well Known Beer Brands in the World
Want to know what Italian beer to have with your pizza? These are some of the best beers with Italian food.
- Nastro Azzurro
Nastro Azzurro is a light-bodied Italian beer that is made in Rome. This is considered a premium lager within the company, and many people swear by it. It is at 5.1% ABV and considered refreshing and crisp, with a light aroma.
Not only is this beer delicious, but it also has sponsored teams within the Formula One Grand Prix multiple times! Nastro Azzurro is a staple in the Italian beer culture. Maybe even try boiling sausage in this Italian beer––you’ll love the outcome.
- Moretti
The Italian beer Moretti is a great light-bodied lager to enjoy after a long day of work. This earthy and almost biscuity-tasting beer couples perfectly with bar food and is cherished by many.
Moretti is produced traditionally in Pollein, Italy. The full name is Birra Moretti, which literally means “Moretti Beer” – suppose you wondered how to say beer in Italian. These beers were first manufactured in 1860 and are still lovingly made today.
- Peroni
The Italian Beer Peroni was created by Francesco Peroni in 1846 in Vigevano, Italy. Now, the company is in Rome. Though it started strong, the makers couldn’t have possibly dreamed how sought-after this beer is today.
This is a crisp beer with hints of citrus, bitterness, and spice to make your taste buds swoon. It contains corn grits and malt, which help to add a unique flavor.
Considered a light beer, Peroni perfectly fits at the dinner table with a variety of foods. Even the style of the bottle will make you want to show off your beverage to your friends.
- Menabrea
Minabrea is an Italian beer that basically seeps out luxury with every swig of the bottle. With twists from a classic lager, this beer boasts being made with Alps mountain water––can it get better than that?
This is a family industry and has been run by over five generations. Giuseppe Menabrea first created the beer in 1846, and now his great, great, great-grandson Franco Thedy is running the business and has been since 2005.
The Menabrea boasts being the oldest Italian beer manufacturer in the country.
- Angelo Poretti
Angelo Poretti is an Italian beer with a 5.5% ABV, making it the strongest on this list. During trips to Austria, Bavaria, and Bohemia, Angelo Poretti was so inspired that he had to make a beer that was made in the traditional brewing methods of those places.
With hints of malt, flowers, and fruit, Angelo Poretti is a refreshing beer. It has a yellow tint to it and foam on top. Because of the low carbonation in this beer, it’s slightly dry.
The mild body of Angelo Poretti makes it perfect for any meal at dinner, so no need to be picky about what you’ll eat with this beer; just sit down, and enjoy!
Where to Find Italian Beer Online
Finding beer online can be difficult if it’s imported. But, with the right searches, you’ll be sure to find the best Italian beer list possible.
A simple search online with “Italian beers” can usually do the trick, but going further into detail may help. Places like Drizly are great because they offer many of the Italian beers people are looking for.
If you want the best Italian beers, don’t settle for mediocre. Get to searching!
An Italian Beer Bread Recipe to Try at Home
With COVID-19, many people have taken to relaxing and finding new hobbies. Baking an Italian beer bread may be the best one to try. It’s easy, quick, and you probably already have the ingredients at home to make it.
Using light beers is essential for the bread because you don’t want it to be too thick or taste too strong. Light-bodied lagers like the ones listed above are perfect for a delicious and easy bake.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups of Flour
- ¼ cup of Sugar
- ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tbsp
- 12 oz can of a light Italian beer of your choice
- 2 tsp of dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp of Onion powder
- 1 tsp of garlic powder
- 4 tbsp of melted butter
- ¼ tsp of garlic salt
For this recipe, you’ll need a mixing bowl, mixer, sifter, and a 10 inch baking pan.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees before baking to make sure the process goes quickly and smoothly.
- In a bowl, sift all of the dry ingredients, and then mix all the ingredients together without the beer, butter, or flour. Once a dough is formed, form a divet in the middle of the dough.
- Melt your butter.
- Put the melted butter and beer inside. Slowly mix in the flour as you knead the bread.
- Lastly, let the dough rise for about an hour before popping your perfect Italian beer bread into the oven for 35-40 minutes in your 10-inch deep dish pan with a bit of cooking spray.
The bread should be ready when it looks golden on top. You can also use a toothpick to ensure the middle is cooked through. Serve immediately with a nice Italian beer.
Relax and Enjoy Responsibly
With so many beers to choose from, it can be overwhelming. So, pick out your favorite Italian beer brand, or give them all a try! From Peroni to Menabrea, there are so many different flavors to taste.
Remember, always drink responsibly, and have fun!
If you enjoyed this article, why not read our Italian Wine Cheat Sheet article too!
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