“The Champagne of the North” – that sparkling phrase was once used by the Emperor Napoleon dedicated to a famous German beer in the year 1809. However, as time passed, that once-national treasure gradually faded into obscurity, its essence resonating only in the pages of old history. Perhaps the refined flavor of Berliner Weisse – Will this refined, tart wheat beer remain a forgotten legacy?
The journey of restoration Professor Fritz Briem The “1809” beer series answers that question with an epic tale of rebirth. It is not simply a story of yeast, malt or hops, but a meeting between the past and the present, where the quintessence of German cuisine is reborn under the hands of a master.
1. '1809' Beer: The Journey of Recreating Berliner Weisse and German Beer Heritage
1.2. History of Professor Fritz Briem Factory
The story of the “1809” beer is not only a journey to restore a traditional beer, but also a rebirth of a part of Berlin’s cultural heritage. It is a remarkable journey, rekindling the long-standing values of the German beer industry, under the guidance of a distinguished beer expert – Professor Fritz Briem.
Anyone who loves beer has probably heard the name. Weihenstephan – one of the oldest universities in the world specializing in brewing technology. It was here that Professor Fritz Briem, who holds a prestigious doctorate, began his journey to revive classic beer styles, including Berliner Weisse, whose "1809" beer is his brainchild.
1.2. Brand Origin
Professor Fritz Briem is no ordinary brewer. He is a leading expert in the beer industry, who has devoted his life to researching and recreating the beers of the past. In addition to being the CEO of Weihenstephan Yeast Bank and hop trading company Lupex, he is also closely associated with the Siebel Institute of Technology in Chicago – one of the most prestigious institutions in the beer industry.
The “1809” beer is part of his Historic Series, a collection of classic beer styles reinterpreted from traditional recipes, imbued with all the long-standing values of the German beer industry. Brewed in Freising, Germany, by the talented hands of experts, “1809” is more than just a beer – it is a perfect combination of past and present, ancient methods and modern techniques.
With passion and dedication, Dr. Fritz Briem has given the world a priceless gift – a beer that not only tastes delicious but also experiences the deep layers of history, like reliving the heroic moments of Berlin in the 19th century.
1.3. Background of the Birth of “1809” Beer
The “1809” beer is named after the year 1809, when Emperor Napoleon and his army, after their victory in Prussia, called Berliner Weisse “Champagne of the North”. The Berliner Weisse style, a sour wheat beer, was once the pride of Berlin in the 16th century and quickly became a cultural icon of Germany. However, over time, the popularity of this beer gradually faded, with only a few small breweries continuing to produce it.
To revive and preserve this beer, Dr. Fritz Briem decided to undertake a noble task – to recreate Berliner Weisse according to the classic recipe, which was not an easy task. With his experience and foresight, he created the “1809” beer, which not only restored the original taste of Berliner Weisse but also brought a new breeze to beer lovers who love traditional experiences.
Beer “1809” is produced in Freising, Germany, with the traditional process, including brewing beer without boiling the wort. This helps to retain the natural flavor, while using classic strains of lactic acid bacteria to create the characteristic light sour and fruity taste, one of the factors that make this beer unique. The product is imported to the US by the company B. United International, bringing German pride and traditional taste to beer lovers around the world.
2. Beer Style “1809”: Berliner Weisse – The Perfect Combination Of Sour And Easy To Drink
Beer “1809” belongs to the style Berliner Weisse, a great representative of the line wheat beer (wheat beer) is a traditional German style, characterized by a light, refreshing sour taste. This style, although classified as a Ale due to the use of yeast fermented at high temperatures, but has a unique difference thanks to the addition of lactic acid bacteria, creating a distinctive sour taste and an extremely pleasant beer drinking experience.
Color: The “1809” beer has a pale or hazy golden colour, with occasional slight haziness, reflecting the presence of unfermented wheat. This colour evokes a feeling of purity and naturalness, like the gentle light of a summer day.
Alcohol content (ABV): With an alcohol concentration of only about 4.2% ABV, “1809” beer brings a light, easy-to-drink feeling. This is a great choice for those looking for a light beer experience, not too strong but still rich.
Bitterness (IBU): With just 8-12 IBU, the “1809” beer has a very light bitterness, almost not prominent, but instead, honors the coolness and light sourness typical of the Berliner Weisse style. This is an easy-to-drink beer, not too harsh but very pleasant.
Body: “1809” beer has a light body, not too heavy, with a wonderful blend of light sourness, soft malt and a delicate fruity aftertaste from yeast and lactic acid bacteria. When drinking, the beer creates a feeling like a cool breeze, bringing relaxation and comfort from each sip.
3. How to Enjoy “1809” Berliner Weisse: Freshness and Elegance in Every Sip
“1809” is not just a beer to enjoy, but an emotional experience full of freshness and elegance. To fully enjoy the taste of this Berliner Weisse, please note some important factors below.
3.1. Ideal Temperature & Suitable Cup Type
To retain its freshness and characteristic light sour taste, “1809” Berliner Weisse should be enjoyed at cold temperatures, from 4-7°C (40-45°F)This temperature not only helps the beer stay cool but also highlights its elegance and ease of drinking, bringing a refreshing feeling in every sip.
When enjoying beer "1809", the glass Goblet or Chalice is the ideal choice. This glass has a wide body and a slightly narrow base, which helps concentrate the natural aromas of the beer and keeps the temperature cold for a longer time. In addition, this type of glass also brings a sense of formality, very suitable for you to enjoy beer on special occasions, from a luxurious party to a meeting with friends.
3.2. Suggested Accompanying Dishes
With its light and easy-to-drink sour taste, “1809” Berliner Weisse is the perfect choice to pair with refreshing, light but flavorful dishes:
- Seafood dishes: Sushi, grilled shrimp, or light fish dishes like salmon or cod will add freshness and harmonize with the light sourness of the beer.
- German Food: Don't miss out on traditional German dishes like pretzel (twisted bread), sausage (German sausage), or sauerkraut (pickled cabbage). The slight sourness of the beer will create a wonderful combination, blending with the rich flavors of these dishes.
- Salad: Fresh green salads, pure fruit salads, or lightly spiced salads will create the perfect combination, honoring the characteristics of Berliner Weisse beer.
3.3. Ideal Occasion to Drink Beer
The “1809” Berliner Weisse is not just a drink, but an ideal companion for many different occasions:
- Hot summer day: With its refreshing and easy-to-drink taste, “1809” beer is a great choice to quench your thirst on hot summer days.
- Outdoor party: BBQs, picnics or outdoor parties will become more refreshing with the presence of Berliner Weisse beer.
- Relaxing events: Thanks to its low alcohol content and refreshing taste, this beer is perfect for gatherings with friends, cozy conversations, or when enjoyed with light meals.
- Discover Beer: It is also a great choice for those just starting to explore the world of beer thanks to its easy drinking and distinctive beer style.
4. Conclusion: Beer “1809” – The Return Journey of a Cultural Heritage
Beer “1809” Not just a drink but a journey, a vivid story about the history, tradition and revival of a classic German beer icon. With the freshness, light sourness typical of the style Berliner Weisse, each sip opens a door leading you back to the glory days of Berlin, when this beer was known as the “Champagne of the North.”
Whether you enjoy this beer on a hot summer day or at an outdoor party with friends, “1809” always brings a refreshing, light and sophisticated feeling. Each glass of “1809” beer is an experience, a moment associated with elegance, a perfect blend of history and modernity.
Raise your glasses and let the beer flow “1809” tell you the story of the old years, of the restoration of a heritage and the endless passion for craft beer. Surely, each sip of beer will enrich your journey of discovery of the world of beer, bringing memorable and emotional experiences.
