Pole Position

The country badge for Poland. Have 5 Polish beers to claim level 1.

The beer industry in Poland was nationalised under their Communist government. Since the fall of Communism three companies control 80% of the market: Żywiec, Okocim and Kompania Piwowarska (the maker of Tyskie and Lech). They are owned by Heineken, Carlsburg and Asahi respectively.

Poland also has its own traditional style of beer, the Grätzer or Grodziskie. Known as Polish Champagne due to its high carbonation and its use at special occasions, a Grätzer is low on alcohol and bitterness with an extremely strong smokey flavour. Personally, I don’t really like the style but it might be right up your alley, so give it a go!