Klosterbrauerei Neuzelle

Neuzelle Abbey Brewery – A brewing tradition dating back to 1416

The Neuzelle Abbey Brewery is the last active abbey brewery in the state of Brandenburg and can look back on a history spanning almost 500 years. The use of hops is documented in monastery records as far back as 1416, whilst the official brewing licence was granted in 1589 by Emperor Rudolf II. Today, at its Neuzelle site, the company combines the traditional craftsmanship of the Cistercians with a modern, creative approach.

The brewery’s range includes a number of unique specialities. Its flagship beer is the ‘Schwarze Abt’, a dark Schwarzbier that gained worldwide fame following a controversy surrounding the German Purity Law. In addition, the brewery produces porters, fruit beers and the popular red ‘Himmelspforte’ draught soft drink, made according to the original GDR recipe.

With around 40 employees, the brewery produces approximately 40,000 hectolitres of beverages each year. On guided tours, visitors can experience the brewing process in the historic brewhouse and enjoy the atmosphere of the picturesque brick buildings by the monastery pond. The Neuzelle Monastery Brewery thus embodies living history, authentic enjoyment and a deep connection to the Brandenburg region.