Poland is renowned not only for its rich culinary heritage but also for its diverse and high-quality beers. With centuries of brewing tradition, Polish breweries produce a range of lagers, ales, and porters that are beloved by locals and beer enthusiasts worldwide. Here are five of the best Polish beers that you should try on your next trip or at your local pub.
Photo: Delicious Poland
1. Żywiec Porter
While Żywiec is well-known for its lager, the Żywiec Porter is a standout among Polish dark beers. This Baltic porter boasts bold flavors of roasted malt, dark chocolate, and coffee, with a smooth, full-bodied finish. At 9.5% ABV, it’s a strong yet balanced beer that perfectly represents Poland’s long porter tradition.
Photo: Duży Ben
2. Browar Artezan Pacific
Browar Artezan, one of Poland’s first craft breweries, produces Pacific, a refreshing American Pale Ale with tropical fruit and citrus notes. It’s a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts for its well-balanced flavor and hoppy finish. Artezan’s dedication to innovation has made it a pioneer in Poland’s growing craft beer scene.
Photo: Artezan
3. Pracownia Piwa Smoked Cracow
Pracownia Piwa is a beloved Polish craft brewery known for its bold and creative beers. Smoked Cracow is a smoked lager with a deep, smoky aroma and malty undertones. This beer pairs beautifully with traditional Polish dishes like Kielbasa or smoked meats, making it a must-try for fans of complex flavors.
Photo: ocen-piwo
4. Pinta Atak Chmielu
Pinta is a revolutionary brewery in Poland’s craft beer movement, and Atak Chmielu (Hop Attack) is their flagship IPA. This beer is packed with intense hop bitterness and fruity citrus notes, making it a perfect choice for hop lovers. Atak Chmielu is often credited with kickstarting the IPA trend in Poland.
5. Kormoran Imperium Prunum
Kormoran Imperium Prunum is an exceptional Baltic porter brewed with smoked plums. This limited-edition beer is highly sought after for its rich, velvety texture and unique blend of dark fruit, chocolate, and smoky notes. It’s a complex, luxurious beer that showcases the creativity of Polish brewing at its finest.
Photo: Browar Kormoran
Whether you’re a fan of hop-forward IPAs or rich, dark porters, Polish beer offers something for everyone. These five beers are just the beginning of what Poland’s brewing tradition has to offer, so grab a pint and discover your new favorite.
Want to experience even more incredible Polish beers? Book our craft beer tour to have the chance to try a wide variety of amazing brews and immerse yourself in Poland’s vibrant beer culture!