Beer

We love our beer in SouthWest Germany, from thirst-quenching Pils to refreshing wheat beer and strong export beer.

We brew using centuries-old traditional methods, with only the highest quality ingredients, as demanded by German laws on beer-making. And our beers are as varied as the landscape. About 1,000 different beers are brewed in the region and there are still countless small, family-owned breweries.

On the trail of SouthWest Germany’s beer heritage

When it comes to beer and brewing in Germany, SouthWest Germany stands second only to Bavaria, with more than 180 breweries.

Rothaus: a Taste of the Black Forest

The Rothaus brewery is the highest in Germany, 3,000 ft/1,000 m up in the Black Forest. Only the very purest water is used, sourced from seven springs. Founded in 1791, its most famous brew is a Pilsner called Tannenzäpfle that has become a cult beer in Germany.

Brauer mit Leib und Seele: brewers with heart and soul

“Brauer mit Leib und Seele” is an association of 10 family-owned and run breweries. As well as being environmentally-conscious, they all guarantee to follow 10 basic rules, such as using grain from local farms, German hops and brewing the traditional way.

Enjoying beer in Oberschwaben

Oberschwaben, the region between the Alps and Lake Constance, attracts visitors for its beautiful landscapes, its culture – and its beer. In 2009, the small town of Ehningen was named “City of Beer Culture.” Its population numbers only 8,000, but Ehningen has the most breweries in SouthWest Germany: five breweries, brewing 40 different beers!

A museum that makes you thirsty

Learn about five centuries of beer drinking and work up a thirst at the Bierkrugmuseum (beer mug museum) in Bad Schussenried. Down in the southeast corner of the state, the museum houses the collection of Jürgen Ott, the owner of the Schussenrieder brewery. See steins in all shapes, sizes and colors – 1,000 of them. When you fancy a beer, pop into the Schussenrieder brewery next door.