The destination was Stowe in Vermont, where the famous von Trapp family lives - known for "The Sound of Music" and, since 2010, operators of their own brewery. The occasion? A reunion of Austrian brewing artistry and American entrepreneurial spirit.
Johannes von Trapp, the last direct descendant of Georg and Maria von Trapp, said that he missed Austrian beer. That was the reason why the family founded their own brewery. Together with his son Sam, he looked for a partner to brew real Austrian beer - and found him in Peter Krammer, the fifth-generation master brewer from Hofstetten.
A Zwickl beer as a bridge between worlds
The idea quickly took shape: a historic Zwickl beer that unites the stories of both families. Not only the Krammer family travelled to Vermont for this, but also valuable ingredients from the Mühlviertel. Malt from the old barley variety "Heines Haisa" and the strong "Malling hops" made their way to the USA. In Stowe, the result is a beer that revives the flavour of bygone times - full of character, tart and full of tradition. "Beer connects," said Peter Krammer as he and Johannes von Trapp clinked glasses.
Three generations, one brew
Three generations of both families came together at the brewing table. Austrian and American cuisine merged: schnitzel and sauerkraut met burger and beer. Guests at the von Trapp Bierhalle were also able to sample Hofstettner beers, giving them a taste of the transatlantic collaboration.
The limited edition special brew will initially be sold in the USA, with a few cans finding their way back to Austria.
#schongenial when centuries-old Austrian brewing tradition and American pioneering spirit cross continents to create a beer that combines past, present and future in an enjoyable way.
