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What to drink in Central Europe? Top 21 Central European Lagers

Last update: Sat Apr 19 2025
Top 21 Central European Lagers
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best Central European Lager Types

01

Lager

PLZEŇ REGION, Czech Republic
4.3
Chodské pivo
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Chodské pivo has been produced in the historic Chodsko region (Plzeň) since the 12th century. It is made from locally sourced water with low mineral content, hops, malt, and yeast. Only Žatecký poloraný červeňák, Sládek, and Premiant hop varieties can be used in its production.


Due to the two-stage fermentation process, lengthy maturation, and the choice of specific raw materials, Chodské pivo is golden, rich, and malty, while its flavor is slightly bitter and strong. This beer is held in high regard, and it was even supplied to the royal courts of Prague and Bavaria. 
02

Lager

PLZEŇ, Czech Republic
4.1
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Pilsner is a beer style that originated in Pilsen (Plzeň), a city in western Bohemia. It was first brewed in 1842, making it one of the youngest beer styles to appear in modern brewing. The style originated when the citizens of Pilsen, who grew unhappy with the quality of the beer, decided to build Bürger Brauerei (Citizens’ Brewery), which would later become Pilsner Urquell.


They eventually brought a Bavarian brewmaster Josef Groll—who went to create the first pilsner brew. Although the initial idea was to create a Bavarian-style lager, the use of Czech ingredients influenced the emergence of a new style. The original pilsner, which was one of the first versions of a clear, light-colored beer, was made with light malted barley from Moravia and Saaz hops. 
VARIATIONS OF Pilsner
THE BEST Pilsner Lagers
1 Klipspringer
Metazoa Brewing
Klipspringer

4.6

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U.S. Open Beer Championship - Gold 2021

2 Pilsner
pFriem Family Brewers
Pilsner

4.5

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World Beer Cup - Gold 2024

3 Pilsner
Steam Whistle
Pilsner

4.5

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4 Pils
Distelhäuser Brauerei Ernst Bauer
Pils

4.3

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European Beer Star - Gold 2023

5 Buckskin German Pilsner
Buckskin - King Car Group
Buckskin German Pilsner

4.3

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European Beer Star - Gold 2020

03

Lager

MUNICH, Germany
4.1
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Helles is a German-style lager that first appeared in Munich in 1894. It was a Bavarian answer to light Czech pilsner. Although Bavaria heavily relied on strong and dark lagers, the popularity of crisp and golden pilsner beers influenced Bavarian brewers to start producing a similar style.


Traditional Helles is typically more malt-forward and has a firmer body than pilsner and other lager styles, but still remains soft and medium-bodied. It is clean, easy-drinking, refined, fresh, and dry, with light hop bitterness and subtle malt sweetness. 
THE BEST Helles Lagers
1 Weihenstephaner Helles
Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan
Weihenstephaner Helles

4.5

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European Beer Star - Gold 2020

2 Frost Hammer
Grains of Wrath Brewing
Frost Hammer

4.5

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Great American Beer Festival - Gold 2021

3 Lagerhead Turtle
Metazoa Brewing
Lagerhead Turtle

4.5

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U.S. Open Beer Championship - Gold 2023

4 Munich Helles
Schulz Brau Brewing
Munich Helles

4.5

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U.S. Open Beer Championship - Gold 2021

5
Metazoa Brewing
Ain’t Afraid Of No Goats

4.3

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World Beer Cup - Gold 2024

04

Lager

BAVARIA, Germany
4.1
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Märzen is a German beer style from Bavaria that is closely connected with Oktoberfestbier and shares some similarities with Vienna lager. This style officially appeared in 1841 when it was brewed by Spaten brewery, but a similar style existed well before that.


Märzen is an amber-colored lager that has toasty malt aromas and flavors, dry finish, crisp hop bitterness, and a medium body. Original versions of these beers were somewhat darker, and as the name suggests—Märzen translates as March—they were brewed in March and then left to lager until early fall. 
05

Lager

BAVARIA, Germany
4.0
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Dunkel is a German dark lager that is mostly associated with Bavaria and Munich. This dark beer, which can range from copper to dark brown, is mainly brewed from Munich malt which gives the beer its typical caramel-like and toasty character.


The beers that fall under this category will typically be smooth, medium-bodied, easy-drinking, subtly sweet, and not too heavy. Typical toasty notes may be accompanied by caramel, toffee, and nut aromas, while hop character can be present but should remain subtle. 
THE BEST Dunkel Lagers
1 Maestra Dunkel
Mahou San Miguel
Maestra Dunkel

4.5

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Barcelona Beer Challenge - Gold 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020

2 Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier Dunkel
Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan
Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier Dunkel

4.5

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World Beer Cup - Gold 2022

3 Schönramer Dunkel
Private Landbrauerei Schönram
Schönramer Dunkel

4.5

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European Beer Star - Gold 2021

4 Kellerbier Dunkel
Biermanufaktur Engel
Kellerbier Dunkel

4.3

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European Beer Star - Gold 2022

06

Lager

MUNICH, Germany
4.0
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Doppelbock is a German beer style that was first brewed in Munich by Paulaner monks. As the name might suggest—doppel translates as double—this style developed as a slightly stronger version of traditional German bock style.


Doppelbock beers are usually medium-bodied with a color that ranges from golden to dark brown. They are rich and smooth with a distinctive malt sweetness that is balanced with subtle hop bitterness. Typical aromas include bread and toasty notes that can be accompanied by subtle hints of caramel. 
THE BEST Doppelbock Lagers
1 Ayinger Celebrator Doppelbock
Brauerei Aying Franz Inselkammer
Ayinger Celebrator Doppelbock

4.8

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Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold 2023

2 Forgotten Memories
Monday Night Brewing
Forgotten Memories

4.5

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U.S. Open Beer Championship - Gold 2022

3 Living A Double Life
Wise Man Brewing
Living A Double Life

4.5

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U.S. Open Beer Championship - Gold 2023

4 Selecta
Mahou San Miguel
Selecta

4.2

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Barcelona Beer Challenge - Gold 2020

07

Lager

MUNICH, Germany
4.0
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Weizenbock is a German beer style that was introduced in 1907 by the Schneider Weisse Brauhaus brewery located in Munich. Weizenbock was supposed to be a middle-ground between the rich and malty doppelbock and wheat beer (weissbier) that was popular at the time.


The style comes in a pale and slightly darker version. Although both styles have a distinctive malt backbone, darker versions may have a richer malt profile and heavier toasty expressions with possible hints of caramel flavors and aromas of raisins and plums. 
THE BEST Weizenbock Lagers
1 Alpenglow
Fat Head's Brewery
Alpenglow

4.7

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Great American Beer Festival - Gold 2023, 2022

2 Weizen Bock
Distelhäuser Brauerei Ernst Bauer
Weizen Bock

4.5

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European Beer Star - Gold 2020

3 Unterbaarer Weizenbock
Schlossbrauerei Unterbaar
Unterbaarer Weizenbock

4.5

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European Beer Star - Gold 2021

4 Total Victory
DC Brau Brewing
Total Victory

4.5

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U.S. Open Beer Championship - Gold 2022

5 Weizen
Trzech Kumpli
Weizen

4.5

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Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold 2021

08

Lager

EINBECK, Germany
3.9
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Bock beer is a German bottom fermenting lager that nowadays comes in a wide range of sub-styles. Traditional versions may range from golden to amber, and sometimes even dark brown. They are typically lightly hopped, rich, creamy, smooth, and malty, with toasty and occasionally caramel notes.


Alcohol content falls within the ABV range of 6.3 to 7.6%, and the beer is traditionally served in a tulip glass. Its origin dates back to the fourteenth century and the city of Einbeck where the beer was brewed by certified master brewers who followed a unique set of quality standards which were established by the city council. 
THE BEST Bock Lagers
1 Geigenseer Wintersud Bock
Geigenseer Privatbrauerei
Geigenseer Wintersud Bock

4.8

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Concours International de Lyon - Gold 2024

2 Autenrieder Leonhardi Bock
Schlossbrauerei Autenried
Autenrieder Leonhardi Bock

4.5

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European Beer Star - Gold 2022, 2020

3 Engel Bock Dunkel
Biermanufaktur Engel
Engel Bock Dunkel

4.3

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European Beer Star - Gold 2023

4 Buckskin Heller Bock
Buckskin - King Car Group
Buckskin Heller Bock

4.3

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European Beer Star - Gold 2020

5 Schlossbräu Leicht
Schlossbrauerei Autenried
Schlossbräu Leicht

4.1

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European Beer Star - Gold 2021

09

Lager

ČESKÉ BUDĚJOVICE, Czech Republic
3.9
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Českobudějovické pivo is a moderately bitter beer produced in the Czech Republic. The water used in the preparation process must come from the underground lake of the České Budějovice Basin, the hops come from the Žatec area, and the malting barley is grown in the Moravia region.


It comes as a lightly malty pale beer and as an intense dark version that has dominant roasted aromas. Due to the use of Žatec hops, the beer has a unique and pleasant taste, making it a very popular alcoholic drink in the country. The beer comes in five varieties: pale lager, Kräusened pale lager, pale draught, special beer, non-alcoholic beer, and dark lager. 
10

Lager

ZNOJMO, Czech Republic
3.9
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Znojemské pivo is a beer produced in several varieties in the Znojmo area in the Czech Republic. It can be produced as a light or dark draught beer and a lager. Only three ingredients are used in the production process – barley malt, water, and hops.


The water is provided by the city's supply system, while the hops are of the Žatecký poloraný červeňák and Magnum Hallertau varieties. The alcohol content varies depending on the style; light draughts range from 3,2 to 4,0%, dark draughts from 3,8 to 4,0%, and lagers from 4,5 to 5,0% ABV. 
11
Lager
BAMBERG, Germany
3.8
12
13
14
Lager
DORTMUND, Germany
3.7
15
Lager
BŘEZNICE, Czech Republic
3.7
16
Lager
KULMBACH, Germany
3.6
17
Lager
VIENNA, Austria
3.4
18
Lager
BAVARIA, Germany
3.4
19
Lager
NETHERLANDS
3.2
20
Lager
BAVARIA, Germany
3.1
21
Lager
LICHTENHAIN, Germany
n/a
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best Central European Lager Producers

01
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Brauerei Aying Franz Inselkammer, also known as Ayinger Privatbrauerei, is a renowned brewery located in the small Bavarian village of Aying, near Munich, Germany. Established in 1878, the brewery has remained family-owned by the Inselkammer family and is celebrated for its commitment to Bavarian brewing traditions and exceptional quality.
AWARDS

World Beer Cup - Gold

2024

Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold

2023, 2021

European Beer Star - Gold

2020

BEST Brauerei Aying Franz Inselkammer Beers
02

Beer

HOPFGARTEN IN DEFEREGGEN, Austria
4.5
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AWARDS

Concours International de Lyon - Gold

2024

BEST Geigenseer Privatbrauerei Beers
03
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Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan (Bavarian State Brewery Weihenstephan) is considered the oldest continuously operating brewery in the world. It is located in Freising, Bavaria, Germany, on Weihenstephan Hill, which has a rich history tied to brewing.


Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan produces a wide range of beers, renowned for their exceptional quality and adherence to the traditional Reinheitsgebot (the German Beer Purity Law of 1516).
AWARDS

European Beer Star - Gold

2023, 2020

World Beer Cup - Gold

2022, 2016

Untappd - 3.7

BEST Bayerische Staatsbrauerei Weihenstephan Beers
04
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Schlossbrauerei Unterbaar is a traditional German brewery located in the region of Swabia, specifically in Baar, Bavaria. The brewery is known for its craftmanship and dedication to producing high-quality beers using traditional brewing methods. It produces a variety of beer styles, including lagers, wheat beers, and seasonal brews, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients.
AWARDS

European Beer Star - Gold

2023, 2022, 2021

Untappd - 2.9

Untappd - 3.4

BEST Schlossbrauerei Unterbaar Beers
05

Beer

TARNÓW, Poland
4.2
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Trzech Kumpli is a well-regarded craft brewery from Poland, known for its high-quality beers and commitment to producing innovative, flavorful brews. The name "Trzech Kumpli" translates to "Three Friends" in English, reflecting the collaborative spirit behind the brewery, which was founded by three passionate beer enthusiasts: Piotr Sosin, Michał Chmiel, and Andrzej Sienkiewicz.


Trzech Kumpli is known for producing a wide range of beer styles, with a special focus on pale ales, IPAs, lagers, and stouts, but they are also known for their creative seasonal and limited-edition beers. They often experiment with unique ingredients and brewing techniques, creating brews that appeal to both beer connoisseurs and newcomers alike.
AWARDS

Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold

2023, 2022, 2021

Untappd - 3.5

Untappd - 3.8

BEST Trzech Kumpli Beers
06
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Private Landbrauerei Schönram is a traditional brewery located in the small village of Schönram, part of the municipality of Petting in Bavaria, Germany. Established in 1780, the brewery has been producing high-quality beers ever since, combining classic Bavarian brewing techniques with modern innovations.
AWARDS

European Beer Star - Gold

2022, 2021, 2020

Untappd - 3.5

Untappd - 3.6

BEST Private Landbrauerei Schönram Beers
07

Beer

TAUBERBISCHOFSHEIM, Germany
4.1
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Distelhäuser Brauerei Ernst Bauer is a traditional brewery located in Tauberbischofsheim, specifically in the village of Distelhausen, in the German region of Baden-Württemberg. Established in 1811, it is renowned for its rich history, family tradition, and production of high-quality beers.
AWARDS

European Beer Star - Gold

2023, 2021, 2020

Untappd - 3.3

Untappd - 3.5

BEST Distelhäuser Brauerei Ernst Bauer Beers
08

Beer

AUTENRIED, Germany
4.1
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Schlossbrauerei Autenried is a Bavarian brewery located in the Swabia region, near the town of Günzburg in Germany. The brewery is housed in the historic Autenried Castle, which dates back to the 18th century, and the beer it produces has a long tradition.


The brewery specializes in crafting high-quality traditional German beers, relying on brewing methods that have been in use for centuries. Schlossbrauerei Autenried produces a variety of beers, including lagers, pale ales, and other Bavarian specialties, often using local ingredients and specific fermentation techniques. 
AWARDS

European Beer Star - Gold

2022, 2021, 2020

Untappd - 2.9

09

Beer

BADEN-WÜRTTEMBERG, Germany
4.1
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Familienbrauerei Bauhöfer (Bauhöfer Family Brewery) is a traditional German brewery located in Renchen-Ulm, in the Ortenau region of Baden-Württemberg, Germany. Established in 1852, it has a long history of producing high-quality beers, combining age-old brewing traditions with modern techniques.


The brewery is family-owned and operated, maintaining its strong roots in local craftsmanship and community values.
AWARDS

European Beer Star - Gold

2022, 2021

Untappd - 3.3

Untappd - 3.4

BEST Familienbrauerei Bauhöfer Beers
10

Beer

CRAILSHEIM, Germany
4.0
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Biermanufaktur Engel is a German craft brewery located in Crailsheim, Baden-Württemberg. Known for its commitment to quality and traditional brewing methods, the brewery produces a wide range of artisanal beers, focusing on creating unique flavors and styles.


Biermanufaktur Engel emphasizes the use of high-quality ingredients and local resources, reflecting the region’s brewing heritage. The brewery's beers are crafted in small batches to ensure optimal taste and freshness. With a passion for innovation, Biermanufaktur Engel has become a respected name in the craft beer community, offering a distinctive selection for beer enthusiasts.
AWARDS

European Beer Star - Gold

2023, 2022

Untappd - 3.3

Untappd - 3.4

BEST Biermanufaktur Engel Beers
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Best Central European Lagers

01
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AWARDS

Concours International de Lyon - Gold

2024

02
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A rich, dark elixir with cascading layers of malt complexity balanced by elegant hops. Notes of toffee, caramel, graceful dark-malt roastiness, and the essence of barley. Lager fermentation leads to clean flavors and pinpoint conditioning. Semi-dry finish.
AWARDS

Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold

2023

03
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Golden, big herbaceous bouquet with a soft, medium body and a long lingering finish with dry hop tones.
AWARDS

Frankfurt International Trophy - Grand Gold

2023

04
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Leonhardi Bock with 18.5% original wort is a real classic among Bock beers, malty and powerful, soft and drinkable. The dark amber color gives you an idea of ​​the incomparable enjoyment.
AWARDS

European Beer Star - Gold

2022, 2020

05
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Full-bodied, easy-drinking strong beer speciality. Light bock, very highly fermented and heavily hopped.
AWARDS

European Beer Star - Gold

2022, 2021

Untappd - 3.3

06
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The Weihenstephaner Helles is perfect with a classical, Bavarian cold meal, but also the ideal accompaniment to a hearty roast or Schnitzel. Brewed with centuries-old brewing experience on the Weihenstephan Hill.
AWARDS

European Beer Star - Gold

2020

Untappd - 3.6

07
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AWARDS

World Beer Cup - Gold

2022

Untappd - 3.7

08
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This light wheat beer matured for three months and impresses with its fine scent of cloves and banana. The mixture of light caramel malt, wheat malt and barley malt as well as the hop mixture of Mandarina Bavaria, Perle and Herkules ensure a malty taste with a hint of mandarin.
AWARDS

European Beer Star - Gold

2020

Untappd - 3.5

09
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Dunkel owes its brown color and unique aroma to the use of special roasted malts. It is the perfect companion to hearty or sweet dishes and tastes excellent on its own. A beer for true enjoyment.
AWARDS

European Beer Star - Gold

2021

Untappd - 3.6

10
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Amber color, full-bodied, strong-vinous aroma, fine-pearly and wonderfully fruity. Unterbaarer Weizenbock - a tasty, traditionally spicy rarity! Its golden amber color, its full-bodied, strong, vinous aroma.
AWARDS

European Beer Star - Gold

2021

Untappd - 3.6

11
TARNÓW, Poland
4.5
12
13
14
15
16
17
18

TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 21 Central European Lagers” list until April 19, 2025, 1,461 ratings were recorded, of which 1,269 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.

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Central European Lagers