Craft Beer Culture Rises in Western Greece

In Western Greece, innovation is bubbling up in the world of food and drink—and this time, it’s in the form of craft beer. A new generation of microbreweries is reviving ancient methods while experimenting with local ingredients, creating bold and distinctive brews that reflect the character of the land.

In the port city of Patras, Ammousa Brewery is leading the charge. Founded by Georgios Danos, who started brewing in his basement, Ammousa has grown into a celebrated name, producing small-batch beers known for their bright, fruity notes and satisfying hoppy bitterness. What began as a personal passion now draws beer lovers from across the country.

Nearby in the village of Platani, another creative force is stirring—literally. Kykao Handcrafted was founded in 2018 as a cooperative brewery with a name that comes from the ancient Greek word kykao, meaning “to stir up.” True to its name, Kykao brews are inventive and bold, combining traditional fermentation with modern techniques. Their beers often include wild yeasts, herbs, and foraged ingredients, resulting in flavors that are as complex as the landscapes that inspire them.

Kykao’s taproom has become a local destination, offering tastings, brewery tours, and community events. Guests can watch the brewing process in action and sample experimental brews that might include hints of citrus, mountain tea, or barrel-aged complexity.

Craft beer in Western Greece isn’t just a trend—it’s a creative expression of place, tradition, and the spirit of reinvention.