Basqueland announces an alliance agreement with Estrella Galicia

Basqueland Brewing is proud to announce an alliance with Corporación Hijos de Rivera, the owner of Estrella Galicia. This union brings together two great Spanish breweries. Although each has its unique origin, both share a common purpose: exceptional quality, the creation of memorable experiences, and contributing to the well-being of our community.

Basqueland, the most awarded and largest craft brewery in Spain, is the benchmark for quality and creativity in the sector. When asked “Why Basqueland?”, Francisco Ucha, CEO of Corporación Hijos de Rivera, responds: “For a decade, they have built a culture of cooperation, unwavering quality, constant creativity, and a determination to expand the craft beer sector in Spain. We want to broaden their reach. There are still few beer consumers in Spain who know Basqueland or have experienced the quality of craft beer. We intend to change that reality.”

A fundamental pillar of Basqueland has been to brew beer comparable to the renowned Basque gastronomy. A clear indication of having reached this high goal is Basqueland’s presence in iconic restaurants across the peninsula, including numerous Michelin-starred establishments, members of the World’s 50 Best list, and renowned local spots, many of them in the Basque Country. Basqueland beers are not only appreciated in the sacred temples of gastronomy but also in favorite neighborhood spots: cafes, bars, pubs, and beach bars.

Co-founder and CEO, Kevin Patricio, states: “We are in biker bars and three-Michelin-starred restaurants. Our beer is a common thread that weaves through the fabric of the hospitality industry. The chefs, owners, and sommeliers who want to serve their customers the best, serve Basqueland.”

Basqueland has developed an impressive range of beers, demonstrating its talent over the years, with more than 75 unique references per year! This diversity responds to the demands of the discerning craft beer consumer, although they are recognized in the brewing sector for the quality and consistency of their core range. Their three most outstanding beers are: Santa Clara Helles, a crisp and classic lager inspired by the Bavarian style; Zumo Hazy IPA, characterized by its appearance and flavor profile similar to fruit juice; and, especially, the iconic Imparable IPA, a West Coast IPA that already occupies a privileged place among the great European beers.

“There is a beer for every occasion. We pair beer with experiences. A beer by the pool or while watching the game. Beer as an aperitif or as an afternoon drink. Beer to accompany a meal or as a dessert? We also have options. Do you have to drive or are you participating in Dry January? Enjoy a Hero! Are you worried about your fitness? Choose a Basqueland Lite!”, explains co-founder and sales director, Ben Rozzi.

Craft beer exploded 10 years ago on the peninsula but has receded since Covid due to lifestyle changes and economic factors. “We adapted quickly to make beers that fit customers’ lifestyles in price, style, and flavor. Basqueland is one of those daily rewards, an affordable luxury,” says Patricio. “Basqueland is perfect for the trend of drinking with quality, drinking less but drinking better. If you’re going to have a beer, it better be a Basqueland.”

“Likewise, we feel committed to helping the craft beer community find its stability and return to the path of growth. If history teaches us anything, it is that the long-term trajectory of craft beer, in any market, always tends to go up,” both companies maintain.

Ignacio Rivera, Executive Chairman of Corporación Hijos de Rivera, points out that “with this operation, we are taking a key step forward in our craft brewers project, allying ourselves with a great travel companion that continuously bets on innovation and disruption. Basqueland perfectly fits with the artisanal values that we have defended at Hijos de Rivera for more than 100 years and shares with us a common passion for beer and a vision committed to generating a real positive impact on the environment.”