Introducing Czech Breweries, Part 6 – Zubr
Pivovar Zubr: A Storied Czech Brewery Rooted in Tradition and Excellence
From the Moravian town of Přerov in the Czech Republic, Pivovar Zubr stands as one of the country’s most respected producers of traditional Czech beer. With roots extending back into the 19th century—and a brewing heritage in the region stretching even further—it embodies the melding of rich history, local culture, and the craft of beer making.
Origins and Early History
Although beer has been brewed in Přerov since the Middle Ages, formal modern brewing at Zubr began in the late 19th century. Brewing rights in the city were first granted by King Přemysl Otakar II in 1252, marking Přerov as a place of beer production well before industrial-scale breweries existed.
The cornerstone of the modern brewery was laid on April 25, 1872, and within a year, the first official batch of beer was produced and released under the brewery’s trademark. The company’s original name was the “First Moravian Joint-Stock Brewery with a Malt House in Přerov,” reflecting its founding purpose and regional ambition.
The brewery’s name, Zubr, comes from the heraldic symbol of the city—an imposing European bison, or zubř in Czech—featured in the Přerov coat of arms. This symbol has endured as a metaphor for strength, character, and regional pride, so much so that it connects the beer brand to the broader cultural identity of the region.
Growth Through the Ages
From its early days, Pivovar Zubr emphasized quality and craftsmanship. Its beers gained recognition quickly; by the end of the 19th century, Zubr had already received awards for quality at exhibitions such as the Jubilee Exhibition in Vienna in 1898.
Throughout the 20th century, the brewery weathered numerous transformations. After World War II, it became part of consolidated national enterprises such as Hanácké pivovary and later Severomoravské pivovary, reflecting the shifting organizational structures under state ownership.
During the late Communist era and the decades that followed, Zubr continued operations, even as the Czech brewing landscape underwent modernization and consolidation. In 1994, the present company structure Pivovar Zubr a. s. was established, and the brewery became part of a group that includes other Moravian breweries like Holba and Litovel, today organized under Pivovary CZ Group of Přerov
Brewing Philosophy and Production
At its heart, Pivovar Zubr remains committed to traditional Czech brewing methods. The production process begins in the brewing house, where malts and hops are combined and wort produced; this is followed by fermentation in open tanks and an extended maturation period in chilled lager cellars.
Two cornerstones of Zubr’s brewing philosophy are the use of regional ingredients and time-honored techniques. The brewery sources quality malt, often from Haná barley, and hops—particularly the renowned Poloraný Žatecký chmel from the Tršice hop gardens—ensuring the beer’s distinctive balance of flavor and bitterness.
Since 1998, under the guidance of brewmaster Ing. Nataša Rousková, Zubr has continued to refine its recipes while maintaining fidelity to tradition. The brewery prides itself on producing beers with good drinkability, a full-bodied character, and the right level of carbonation and taste—qualities that have won it numerous awards in domestic and international competitions.
Product Range and Recognition
Pivovar Zubr boasts a diverse portfolio of beers that appeal to both traditionalists and modern beer drinkers alike. Its best-known offerings include:
Zubr Grand 11° – A four-times hopped classic lager that has become one of its most popular beers, known for its balanced full flavor.
Zubr Gold – A lighter beer that has earned accolades as a top bottled Czech beer in competitions like Pivex’s Golden Cup.
Zubr Classic and Zubr Gradus 12° – Other staple lagers in the brewery’s lineup, showcasing traditional Czech brewing excellence.
The quality of Zubr beers has been repeatedly recognized. For example, in 2022, Zubr Gold was named best Czech bottled beer in Pivex’s Golden Cup competition.
Cultural Impact and Community Involvement
Beyond production, Pivovar Zubr plays an active role in the cultural life of Přerov and the region. The brewery hosts events such as ZUBRFEST, a lively music and beer festival that draws locals and tourists alike, celebrating the brewery’s heritage and community spirit.
For many years, Zubr also supported regional sports teams, most notably as a major sponsor of the local hockey club HC Zubr Přerov, demonstrating its commitment to community engagement beyond brewing. That long-standing partnership continued until the 2025/26 season, when it was amicably concluded, with the brewery affirming ongoing local partnerships in other areas including youth sports and cultural events.
Looking Forward
As it approaches and surpasses 150 years of modern production, Pivovar Zubr continues to evolve. In recent years, it has updated its visual identity—refreshing logos, packaging, and communication—while maintaining the quality and brewing principles that have made it a beloved Czech brand for generations.
The story of Zubr is a testament to resilience and tradition: a brewery that has endured social, political, and economic changes while consistently producing beer that reflects the heart of Czech brewing culture. Its beers remain widely appreciated not only in the Moravian heartland but across the Czech Republic, and among connoisseurs of classic lagers around the world
Brewery website: zubr.cz
Image: Pivovar Zubr
