Budvar Original Lager

Budweiser Budvar, known as Budvar, is one of the world's most famous Czech beers. Its origins date back centuries to the brewing traditions of the city of České Budějovice, though the modern national brewery was officially founded in 1895. Unlike many major global beer brands that have been acquired by multinational conglomerates, Budvar remains a point of intense national pride and sovereignty for the Czech people.

The production of Budvar is strictly tied to its physical location in České Budějovice. The brewery utilizes artesian water from 300-meter deep wells dating back to the Ice Age, alongside specific Moravian malt and whole-cone Saaz hops. This commitment to local ingredients and traditional long-maturation brewing processes has earned the product a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status from the European Union, meaning it cannot be legally brewed elsewhere.

Ownership of the brand is unique in the modern beverage industry. Budějovický Budvar is a national corporation (národní podnik) owned by the Czech Republic's Ministry of Agriculture. It is the last brewery in the country still owned by the state, a status that has historically protected it during long-standing legal disputes over the 'Budweiser' trademark in various international markets.