Hofstetten Brewery

PETER KRAMER AND THE HOFSTETTEN COUNTRY BREWHOUSE IN THE MÜHLVIERTEL: WHERE THE TRADITION OF A REGION IS CONTAINED IN A BOTTLE OF BEER

In the heart of the Mühlviertel granite landscape, where tradition is still firmly anchored in everyday life, a familiar aroma can suddenly envelop you - the spicy, inviting smell of hops and malt. And where else would this smell come from if not from the Landbrauhaus Hofstetten? This is the oldest brewery in Austria, which began life as a simple inn in 1229. Today, almost 800 years later, the brewery is run with passion by Peter Kramer in the fifth generation and has developed into a beacon for regional beer and sustainability in the Danube region. Without the importance of the Danube as a trade route for transporting salt, the brewery would probably not have existed at this location, says Peter Kramer today.

The brewery looks back with pride on its long history and combines this with innovative ideas. The result: a variety of speciality beers that delight beer lovers from near and far. From traditional Märzen to creative varieties such as pumpkin and honey beer, which are the result of spontaneous ideas and local collaboration. It's not just beer that is brewed here, history is made here. The Hofstettner Granitbier in particular is a highlight in the range and a true homage to the geological and cultural roots of the Mühlviertel granite country. Shimmering amber in colour, this beer combines the purity of water filtered through the region's granite layers with Pilsner and caramel malts and Mühlviertel hops. The result is a strong beer that delights with subtle caramel notes. Now the question remains: what is the best way to enjoy Hofstettner specialities? Freshly brewed at the farm's ramp sales, online or at retail and catering partners in the Danube region.

As a traditional three-cornered farm, the brewery is nestled in a landscape that radiates tranquillity and stability. It was important to Peter Kramer to carry on the centuries-old history of the house and to preserve the historical heritage. The water needed for brewing comes from the hotel's own spring, which is surrounded by a water conservation area. The valuable malting barley grows in the surrounding communities, cultivated by organic farmers who also have strong ties to the region. Under Peter's management, a range of up to twenty types of beer is proudly produced here, half of which is already brewed from 100% Mühlviertel organic raw materials. This dedication to regionality and sustainability can be found in the fine drops of beer.

Visitors who make their way along the many hiking, cycling and mountain bike trails, such as the Donau-Granit-Runde or the MTB Granit-Bier-Runde to the brewery, are invited to discover the variety of beers and take a piece of the Mühlviertel back home with them. Traditionally, guided tours are offered, where you can even take a sip of Kübelbier yourself in the cellar. The in-house shop also offers a variety of gift ideas that perfectly round off the beer experience and give a piece of Mühlviertel brewing art to take home with you.

Groups between 10 and 30 persons can book a tour through our brewery, followed by a beer tasting, from wednesday to friday. Included is a tour through the historic brewhouse from 1929 in contrast to the modern brewhouse, a visit to the fermentation cellar, the granite cellar and the tapping of our Kübelbier directly from the storage tank.