Kundmüller Brewery Defends Its Title as Brewery of the Year
A Celebrated Achievement
The Kundmüller Brewery, located in Weiher, has once again proven its excellence by being named “Brewery of the Year” at the prestigious Finest Beer Selection 2026. This honor, awarded on June 29 in Neustadt an der Weinstraße, is one of the most prestigious recognitions in the brewing industry, solidifying Kundmüller’s status as a leader in the field.
Consistency in Quality
This year marks the second consecutive time that the Kundmüller Brewery has clinched this esteemed title. The brewery succeeded in placing 15 of its beers in the Finest Beer Selection 2026, each receiving a rating of at least 90 points from an international panel of experts. According to Dr. Werner Gloßner, the event organizer, “To have 15 beers rated for two years in a row is extraordinary. Kundmüller’s success is not a coincidence; it reflects consistently high brewing craftsmanship.”
Highlighted Brews
Among the standout submissions, the Weiherer Doppelbock Holzfassgelagert Rum garnered the highest score of 96 out of 100 possible points, ranking it among the top-rated beers in the competition. Notably executed, this beer is aged in former rum barrels, resulting in a unique flavor profile that has captivated both judges and connoisseurs alike. Other highly-rated entries include a collaborative Rauchbock with a score of 95 points, along with various traditional Franconian beer styles like Kellerbier, Landbier Hell, and Weizen.
Celebrating Dedication and Craftsmanship
Oswald Kundmüller, the brewery’s managing director, expressed pride in their continued success: “Last year, we celebrated because we hadn’t expected this success. This year, we celebrate, showing that it was no fluke.” His brother, Roland Kundmüller, the brewery’s master brewer, shared his joy about the high rating of the barrel-aged Doppelbock, stating, “It was an experiment where no one knew if it would work.”
A Rigorous Selection Process
The Finest Beer Selection is meticulously organized by the Meininger Verlag and the Doemens Academy. This year, a staggering 843 beers from 122 breweries worldwide were entered into the competition. After rigorous blind tastings by a panel of 50 beer experts, only the top 285 beers were rated. The strict 100-point grading system means only the best rise to prominence, solidifying Kundmüller’s credibility in the global beer scene.
Legacy of Excellence
Founded in 1874, the Kundmüller Brewery has a rich history in brewing and is now led by the seventh generation of the Kundmüller family. With over 35 unique beer specialties in its repertoire, Kundmüller embodies the spirit of Franconia through its traditional brewing methods and innovative approaches.
The brewery’s success speaks volumes about its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, making it a noteworthy mention for beer lovers and connoisseurs alike. As Kundmüller continues to push boundaries in the brewing world, it will be exciting to see what they achieve next on their journey of excellence in beer-making.
Kundmüller’s latest triumph not only highlights their quality but also reaffirms the importance of tradition and innovation in crafting exceptional beers. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the offerings from this esteemed brewery should definitely not be missed.
