Brewer Arletta Ziemian on the Beauty of Wrocław
1 September 2021
Arletta Ziemian co-founded craft brewery Browar Stu Mostów in Wrocław – once a renowned brewing city – with her husband Grzegorz seven years ago. Since then, the pair have been busy putting Polish craft beer on the global map.
Browar Stu Mostów: A Polish Craft Beer Gem
Browar Stu Mostów was born from our travels around the U.S., Europe, and Asia. This experience exposed us to delicious, regional craft beer that we longed for in Poland. After our return, we invested capital, chose the right technology, and selected the beers to brew. Our journey was extensive; it took considerable time to acquire and expand our knowledge. Initially, we were just three: Grzegorz, myself, and the main brewer; now our team has grown to nearly 70 passionate individuals.
The Thriving Polish Craft Beer Scene
Craft beer has been gaining popularity in Poland for several years. The success of our brewery has played a significant role in this trend. Moreover, what has unfolded recently can only be described as a revolution. Not long ago, finding craft beer in Polish stores was a challenge. Today, even major retail chains are competing for craft beers from breweries like ours. This shift indicates that an increasing number of people appreciate the unique taste of craft beer and are making conscious purchasing decisions.
What Makes Wrocław Unique?
Wrocław is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Poland and Europe. It captivates visitors with its historic architecture while embracing modernity. This city is particularly appealing to the younger crowd, thanks to its many cultural events, including the prestigious summer film festival. Furthermore, the Market Square is a vibrant hub filled with tourists from around the globe.
Our choice to establish the brewery in Wrocław was straightforward. We have always cherished this city, which boasts an impressive 800-year brewing pedigree. Unfortunately, none of the traditional breweries have endured, the last closing at the start of the 21st century. With our arrival, we aim to honor this history and write its future chapters.
Craft Breweries to Watch in Poland
Nepomucen stands out as a rapidly growing craft brewery, while Trzech Kumpli has been consistently producing exceptional beer over the years. Lastly, Pinta is imperative in any conversation about Polish craft beer, as it has been pivotal in the craft beer revolution.
Finding Serenity in Poland
The entirety of Lower Silesia, the region where Wrocław is located, offers a stunning array of castles, picturesque trails, and mountains. For a peaceful escape, I often retreat to the Bieszczady mountains or the eastern parts of the country. Additionally, the Tri-city area—consisting of Gdańsk, Gdynia, and Sopot—by the Baltic Sea is particularly enchanting in the autumn.