The Legend

The 17th and 18th centuries were the heyday of Grodzisk-based breweries, brewing on a large scale by the then standards. Brewers aware of the uniqueness of the local beer took great care of its quality. This is evidenced by entries in the oldest surviving Grodzisk brewing statute from 1601. The document provided the rules of production and protected the high quality of the beer. It was difficult and relatively expensive to produce beer, and the process was held in high esteem. Once brewed, Grodzisk beer was tasted by the mayor and councillors, and each barrel of Grodzisk beer was marked with a special seal as guarantee of its originality. There were severe penalties for breaking these rules. Only a few apprentices were allowed to join the guild of Grodzisk malsters. The related fees were the highest in the entire region of Wielkopolska, and amounted to 600 guilders, while the most respectable guilds in Poznań charged 100 guilders.

By the 18th century, beer from Grodzisk Wielkopolski had been famous throughout Wielkopolska and beyond, and its exports to the neighbouring countries commenced. The beverage was so highly regarded that the Poznań town hall imported and sold almost exclusively Grodzisk beer, and officials received it as a reward for performing their duties well. Grodzisk beer was expensive, twice as expensive as other amber beverages sold at the time. Every self-respecting burgher or nobleman wanted to have Grodzisk beer at home as it was considered a status symbol. A host who served Grodzisk beer was considered extremely generous. Between the world wars, Grodzisk beer was exported to 37 countries, including China and the USA, as well as African countries. The beer had exquisite thirst-quenching qualities, and was not intoxicating.

Over the centuries, Grodzisk Wielkopolski became the largest brewing centre in Poland, and Grodzisk beer gained an excellent reputation abroad, unmatched by any beer brewed in Poland. Grodzisk Wielkopolski became known as the "Polish capital of beer" with the best brewing schools boasting eminent teachers.

After 1945, the brewery was nationalised. As a result of the brewery’s economic and ownership-related problems, the last batch of Grodzisk beer was brewed in 1994. Now, after a break of more than 20 years, the legendary beer is back on shop shelves thanks to the Brewery in Grodzisk Wielkopolski!

Grodziskie is the only Polish beer style, the country’s contribution to the history and development of brewing. It was once referred to as the "champagne among beers", due to its exceptional flavour and high quality. It has a mention in Michael Jackson’s guide to the world's best beers whose author is referred to as the "Pope of Brewing".