Munich brewing history is full of famous names, but Spaten occupies a particularly important place because it helped shape lager as most of the world now understands it.

Founded in the fourteenth century, the brewery became one of the pioneers of modern lager brewing during the nineteenth century. It played a major role in developing Munich Helles and helped spread bottom-fermented beer far beyond Bavaria.

The flagship Helles remains the best introduction. Soft bready malt, gentle floral hops and remarkable balance all delivered with the sort of precision German brewers tend to treat as basic competence rather than something worth bragging about.

Spaten also produces Dunkel, Oktoberfestbier and stronger seasonal styles, all carrying that same emphasis on drinkability and structure.

There is a reason Munich remains one of the great beer cities in the world. Breweries like Spaten spent centuries building the reputation.