Maximilian Krieger, eighth generation brewer, charts a new course in the Riedenburger Brauhaus in order to preserve the past. We met with him over a glass or two of “Urgetreidebier”
Brewer Maximilian Krieger
Unique craft beer based on regional organic ingredients is a matter close to Maximilian Krieger's heart. Together with his father Michael he runs the Riedenburger Brauhaus in Lower Bavaria. Here they traditionally do things a little bit differently than elsewhere. While the father introduced organic beer made from regional ingredients, the son focuses on Craft Beer. For this, he even brings a piece of New York into the homeland.
Hand in hand with the farmers from the region
So this is where it took place, ther evolution in the beer glass? The location is idyllic for a revolution: the town of Riedenburg in Lower Bavaria. It is on the northernmost point of Lower Bavaria, on the bank of the Altmühl, which has cut deeply into the hilly landscape.
From Brooklyn to Bavaria
Things are done a bit differently here
Here, Michael Krieger and his son Maximilian brew beer together with around 30 other staff. Things are done a bit differently here than elsewhere – and that can be seen and is evident in the taste. In 1994, Riedenburger was the first brewery in Germany to become fully organic. To the more traditional brewing industry, that seemed like a revolution.
Michael Krieger began to use malt from traditional grains as early as the 1980s. Einkorn, emmer and spelt are not just ideal for organic farming; they also have a positive effect on the taste, thanks to their high protein content.
Bavarian brewing art
Taste is the real keyword for the son, Maximilian Krieger. The 35-year-old manages the stylish brewery together with his father. He is following the organic path of his parents – but he too is bringing about a small revolution: Maximilian Krieger has paired their own beer traditions with international influences. The key term is craft beer; in other words, handcrafted, characterful beers.
Craft Beer traditional and yet different
That is what Maximilian Krieger is creating in Riedenburg. He is supported in this by the craft beer pioneers of the Brooklyn Brewery from New York. “Interestingly, the Americans are introducing ideas which are not actually new in Bavaria, but have gone out of fashion. Dry-hopping (Hopfenstopfen) for example”. This method sees the hops being added to the brew after it has cooled. This sees the aromatic hop oils released, resulting in fruity nuances.
More information about Riedenburger Brauhaus at riedenburger.de (in German only)
... from Maximilian
Circular hiking trail Klamm
The circular hiking trail from Riedenburg through the Klamm nature reserve is about 10 kilometers long. That's a bit further, but hiking through the Klamm is simply wonderful.
rauszeit.bayern (in German only)
River bike paths in the Altmühltal
The bike paths in the Altmühltal are consistently good, flat and also suitable for families. Take a day trip from Riedenburg to Kelheim or to Dietfurt and Beilngries.
naturpark-altmuehltal.de (in German only)
Canoeing on the Altmühl
At the Kratzmühlsee there is a canoe rental that rents canoes and kayaks from April to October. Take one and paddle comfortably on the Altmühl.
naturpark-altmuehltal.de (in German only)
