The Swiss beer culture is diverse and rich, even though it often stands in the shadow of neighboring countries, such as Germany and Belgium, which are famous for their beer traditions worldwide. Switzerland has a long history of brewing, and in recent years, it has seen a significant increase in the number of microbreweries and craft beers.
Feldschlösschen is the largest and most famous brewery in Switzerland. It was founded in 1876 and is headquartered in a castle-like building in Rheinfelden. Feldschlösschen translates to “little field castle”. The brewery produces a range of beers, including lagers, pilsners, and wheat beers. Its flagship is the Feldschlösschen Original, a fine malty lager.
Both Feldschlösschen beers can be purchased in supermarkets for 2 CHF, which is approximately the same amount in EUR.
Chopfab is a craft beer brewed by Doppelleu Brauwerkstatt. The name “Chopfab” in Swiss-German dialect means “top hat”, symbolizing the top quality of their beers. Since its founding in 2012, the brewery has become one of the most significant players in the Swiss craft beer scene. It offers a range of beers including American Pale Ale, Pilsner, and India Pale Ale (IPA). Their beers are known for their quality and distinct taste. A half-liter can of beer costs 2.20 CHF.
Brauerei Fischerstube is a well-known brewery in Basel, Switzerland. It is particularly famous for the Ueli beer, which is brewed using traditional methods in the Rhine region. The brewery also includes the Fischerstube restaurant, which has been in operation since 1974. Their beers are typical of traditional German and Swiss styles, such as lagers and wheat beers. A half-liter can of Reverenz beer costs 2.30 CHF.
Although I prefer wine, I found Swiss beer very successful, and I would even rate the Chopfab IPA as excellent.
Enjoy Swiss beer and drink responsibly!
