Estrella Damm stands as Barcelona’s most iconic beer, renowned for its crisp, refreshing taste and deep Mediterranean roots. Brewed since 1876, it is a symbol of Catalan brewing tradition and a staple in bars and restaurants across Spain and beyond.
History of Estrella Damm
Founded in 1876 by August Küntzmann Damm and his cousin Joseph Damm, Estrella Damm’s origins trace back to Alsace, from where the founders fled the Franco-Prussian War. Settling in Barcelona, they introduced a lighter lager tailored to the Mediterranean climate, distinct from the heavier Central European beers of the era. Originally marketed as "Strasburger Bier" and recognized by its five-pointed red star, the brand evolved through the decades, becoming "Estrella Dorada" in 1921 and finally "Estrella Damm" in 1991. Throughout its history, Estrella Damm has been celebrated for its quality, earning international recognition as early as 1907.
Price
Estrella Damm is competitively priced among European lagers. In Spain, a 33cl bottle typically retails for €1–€2 in supermarkets and €2–€4 in bars and restaurants. International prices may vary depending on import costs and local taxes.
Ingredients
Estrella Damm is brewed using the original 1876 recipe, which features:
- 100% natural ingredients
- Barley malt
- Rice (sourced from the Ebro Delta)
- Hops
- Unique house yeast (used for over 140 years)
No additives or preservatives are used, and the brewery works closely with local Mediterranean farmers to ensure ingredient quality.
Production Method
The production process is a blend of tradition and innovation:
- Own Malthouse: Estrella Damm malts its own barley, allowing full control over quality.
- Yeast Strain: The brewery uses the same proprietary yeast strain for generations, stored securely in multiple cities.
- Fermentation & Conditioning: The beer undergoes a minimum of three weeks of fermentation and maturation, ensuring a balanced and refreshing profile.
- Packaging: Bottled in dark brown glass for 30% more light protection than standard bottles, preserving freshness and taste.
Stats
| Attribute | Details |
|-------------------------|---------------------------|
| Type | Mediterranean Lager |
| Alcohol by Volume | 5.4% (Spain), 4.6% (UK) |
| Introduced | 1876 |
| Producer | S.A. Damm |
| Availability | Over 20 countries |
| Key Markets | Spain, UK, Australia, Canada, Brazil, and more |
Summary
Estrella Damm is more than just a beer—it’s a reflection of Barcelona’s spirit and Mediterranean lifestyle. Brewed for nearly a century and a half with natural ingredients and meticulous care, it remains a benchmark for quality and tradition in the world of lagers. Its crisp, light character makes it a favorite for warm climates, and its story continues to inspire beer lovers globally.

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