In the heart of Balkans, amidst the rugged landscapes and rich cultural heritage, a revolution is brewing—one pint at a time. Meet the trailblazers of the craft beer movement, whose passion for brewing and dedication to local pride have elevated Montenegro’s beer scene to new heights.
Embracing tradition, innovation, and sustainability
Montenegro is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. But among its ancient fortresses and azure coastlines lies a burgeoning scene that’s been brewing up quite a storm – the craft beer revolution. At the forefront of this movement are ambitious pioneers, committed to elevating Montenegro’s brewing heritage onto the global stage. One such pioneer is company called Akademija Piva (eng. Beer Academy), whose passion for beer and dedication to quality have made it synonymous with Montenegrin craft culture, as the country’s first of its kind.
Craft beer has emerged as a beacon of innovation and flavor diversity in the world of brewing. Unlike mass-produced beers, craft beer is typically brewed by small, independent breweries with a focus on quality, creativity, and traditional brewing methods. What sets craft beer apart is its artisanal approach, allowing brewers to experiment with various ingredients, styles, and techniques to create unique and distinctive flavors.
Conceptually created by Danilo Pavličić, the brewery and the brand embarked on a journey fueled by a deep-rooted love for beer and a fervent sense of local pride. Inspired by the global surge in demand for artisanal brews, they set out to create something uniquely Montenegrin – a product that would captivate both domestic enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. According to the founder, the inspiration for launching craft beer production in Montenegro primarily stemmed from a passion for beer and local patriotism, aiming to offer another unique Montenegrin product to the market, catering to both domestic consumers and visiting tourists.
Craft breweries worldwide often pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients, which not only supports local farmers and businesses but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation. This emphasis on sustainability aligns with the growing demand for environmentally conscious products among consumers.
The founder of Akademija Piva affirmed that what sets their company apart from conventional breweries is primarily the use of the highest quality ingredients for beer production. Their beer is produced from water, malt, hops, and yeast without any additives.
Akademija Piva doesn't stop at tradition; they're also champions of innovation.
The founder stated that from the very beginning, they actively started experimenting with new, unique beer styles. Drawing inspiration from Montenegro’s abundant nature´s bounty, they incorporate local ingredients like chestnut honey, quince, and cherries, infusing their brews with an unmistakable sense of terroir. According to the company´s philosophy, this not only provides consumers with the opportunity to try different beer styles but also contributes to their small part in supporting the local agricultural community.
Beyond their commitment to crafting exceptional brews lies a deep-seated belief in community engagement and sustainability.
Danilo emphasized their focus on sustainability in the beer production process, aiming to reduce ecological impact through a modern CO2 accumulation system. This CO2 is subsequently repurposed for beer tapping, aligning with their sustainable practices. By actively engaging in the “Every Can Counts” recycling campaign, they raise awareness about the significance of packaging recycling and its environmental implications. Adopting such sustainable practices is essential for safeguarding the planet’s well-being and fostering a prosperous future for future generations.
Apart the liquid itself, the culture surrounding craft beer is vibrant and inclusive.
From the outset, their vision extended beyond mere production; they sought to cultivate an experience, a journey through the artistry of brewing. Founder explained that they commenced production in 2017. with the idea of not only starting production but also opening a pub within it, aiming to provide an unique experience for all true beer aficionados. Similar to renowned breweries worldwide, Akademija Piva today often serves as community hub, hosting events, tastings, gigs and tours that bring people together to share their passion for beer. In addition to production area, Beer Academy also features a restaurant with the industrially inspired interior. This combination gives the visitors the unique opportunity to taste all the beers they have in their offer right on the premises.
But it's not all serious business at this brewery.
They believe that enjoying a good beer should be a lighthearted experience, which is why they’ve infused their lineup with plenty of humor and whimsy. They´ve found inspiration in the halls of academia, infusing each of the brews with a touch of scholarly wit, by giving the beers unique names. From the rich and complex “Great Master of Science” lager to the impeccably crafted “Professor Doctor” IPA, their beers pay homage to the pursuit of knowledge while tantalizing your taste buds with exceptional flavors.
Therefore, feel invited to indulge in the refreshing “Brother Dean” Oktoberfest, and don’t forget to raise a glass to the craft beer revolution with the distinguished “Straight A” weissbier.
Looking towards the future
The team behind Akademija Piva remain steadfast in their commitment to growth and innovation. Danilo revealed that their future will primarily focus on expanding the production capacities, considering the growing demand for beer and the development of the export markets. This will allow consumers to soon enjoy even more unique beer styles, as well as some new packaging. The company also actively works on expanding hospitality network.
Indeed, as Montenegro’s craft beer scene continues to evolve, fueled by a growing appreciation for diversity and quality, pioneers like Akademija Piva stand as beacons of innovation and creativity. Through their unwavering dedication to excellence and community, they not only brew exceptional beer but also shape the very fabric of Montenegro’s cultural landscape. Akademija Piva is truly pushing boundaries, driving innovation and inspiring a new generation of beer lovers.
Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, the world of craft beer offers endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. Cheers to the craft beer revolution!