Stella Artois Fact File
Stella Artois is a decent lager with a bit of a mixed reputation in the UK. For years it was seen as a beer for classy people, then it gained a reputation for being popular with stereotypical football fans. Now its reputation appears to be on the up. Interestingly, the reputation of Stella Artois has remained unchanged pretty much everywhere else in the world. In this Stella Artois fact file, we’ll be answering some of the most common questions about this excellent beer.
Where Does Stella Artois Come From?
Stella Artois, a popular Belgian beer, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The brewery where Stella Artois is brewed is located in Leuven, Belgium. This historic city has been home to the brewery for over 600 years. Making it one of the oldest breweries in the world.
Brewing in Leuven can be traced back to 1366 when it operated under the name Den Hoorn. In 1708 Sebastian Artois became an apprentice to the head brewer at the Den Hoorn brewer, Jacob Den Hoorn. He clearly liked it as nine years later Sebastian bought the brewery.
In 1717, the brewery was renamed “Brouwerij Artois” after Sebastian himself. Since then, the brewery has continued to thrive and produce exceptional beers, including the iconic Stella Artois.
Today, the Stella Artois Brewery in Leuven remains a symbol of Belgian brewing tradition and craftsmanship. It continues to produce Stella Artois using the same time-honoured brewing techniques and high-quality ingredients that have made it a beloved beer worldwide. So, when you enjoy a glass of Stella Artois, you are not only savouring a delicious beer but also experiencing a taste of Belgian brewing history that spans centuries.
What Does Stella Artois Mean?
The name Stella Artois has always held fascination with those who do not speak Latin. The name Stella comes from the Christmas Star (Star of Bethlehem), while Artois is named after the man who bought the Den Hoorn brewery, Sebastian Artois.
There is some confusion about the name Artois, with many people assuming it refers to the Artois region of Northern France. This issue has led to many people believing that Stella Artois is a French beer. Something that was exacerbated by the 2011 Superbowl ad.
The beer that would become Stella Artois was first brewed in 1925. It was named X, and then renamed Stella Artois a year later.
What Does Stella Artois 1366 Mean?
The 1366 in the Stella Artois logo refers the supposed founding of the Den Hoorn Brewery in Leuven. There was certainly a brewery there. But the name “Den Hoorn” would not be referenced in print until a century later in 1466.
The Brewery would not be owned by the Artois family until 1717, and the original brewery would be destroyed in 1914. But you can understand why Stella Artois would feel that 1366 was an important date, as beer was brewed in this location.
Where is Stella Artois Brewed in the UK?
Stella Artois, a beloved Belgian beer, has a strong presence in the UK. The brewing of Stella Artois in the UK takes place in two locations: Samlesbury and Magor. The Samlesbury brewery, located in Lancashire, has been brewing Stella Artois since 1972. It is one of the largest breweries in the UK and is known for its state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to quality.
The brewery follows the traditional brewing process. Using the finest ingredients and adhering to strict quality control measures to ensure that every pint of Stella Artois brewed in the UK meets the highest standards. In addition to Samlesbury, Stella Artois is also brewed in Magor, South Wales.
The Magor brewery has been producing Stella Artois since 1979 and is known for its dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The brewery has implemented various initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and minimize waste, making it a leader in sustainable brewing practices.
Both the Samlesbury and Magor breweries play a crucial role in meeting the demand for Stella Artois in the UK. They ensure that consumers can enjoy the same great taste and quality that Stella Artois is known for, while also supporting local economies and communities.
So, whether you’re enjoying a pint of Stella Artois in a pub or cracking open a bottle at home, you can be confident that the Stella Artois brewed in the UK is crafted with care and precision at the Samlesbury and Magor breweries.
What Beers are Similar to Stella Artois?
Stella Artois is a unique beer with its own distinct flavour profile. But if you’re looking for similar beers to try, there are a few options that you might enjoy. One beer that is often compared to Stella Artois is Heineken. Both beers are European lagers and have a crisp, refreshing taste.
Heineken is known for its smoothness and balanced flavour, similar to Stella Artois. Another beer that shares similarities with Stella Artois is Peroni Nastro Azzurro. This Italian lager is light and easy to drink, with a slightly bitter finish. If you’re a fan of Stella Artois, you might also enjoy trying Beck’s. This German beer has a similar light and crisp taste, making it a good alternative.
In Belgium, the most popular pilsner in not actually Stella Artois, but Jupiler. While many would say that Stella is the superior beer, Jupiler is obviously very similar in terms of style and taste.
Lastly, try Pilsner Urquell. This Czech beer is known for its rich, malty flavour and hoppy finish. Which sets it apart from Stella Artois but still offers a satisfying drinking experience. Whether you’re a fan of Stella Artois or simply looking to explore similar beers, these options are worth trying to find your new favourite brew.
About the Author Matt Smith
Matt Smith is the owner of Beer N Biceps. He has a degree in Sports Science, 10 years of experience working in the fitness industry, and has written for hundreds of fitness websites. He is a lover of good quality beer and believes that drinking in moderation can form part of a healthy lifestyle.
