Brewed by monks since 1621? That’s the story of Mülln. This small neighborhood in Salzburg holds a beer paradise. It is called Augustiner Bräu Mülln. Get ready to dive into its history and unique traditions.
Mülln was first mentioned in 790. It was known as “ead molendina” named by the millers. It is possibly Salzburg’s oldest suburb. Mülln grew from a small milling city. The mills used water from the Riedenburg Moor. Later, they used an arm of the Almkanal. By the 12th century, the area was called Mülln.
Imagine Mülln with its five city gates. These gates stood before the second city fortification around 1480. There was the Liefering Gate and the Grimming Gate. Also, there was the Wartelstein Gate. Two fluid gates led to the Salzach River.
But today, Mülln is most famous for its beer. The Augustiner Bräu Mülln was founded by Augustinian monks in 1621. They got permission to establish a brewery. In 1877, Prior Modlhammer promoted it as a beer paradise. The same brewing equipment was used for 100 years. The brewery is still in the monastery. Monks still run it.
Entering the Augustiner Bräu Mülln is an experience. The side entrance feels hidden. Walk along the cobblestone path. You will see big wooden doors. A small yellow sign hangs up. Open the doors and walk down some stairs. Suddenly, you’re in the eating hall.
The Schmankerlgang is a delicatessen arcade. Market stalls offer everything to eat. Breads, fish, cheese, and meats. Also potatoes, salads, and sweets. Try the pork knuckle and potatoes. Locals love it.
There are five main beer halls and a beer garden. The best halls have the most character. They are always full. But you can usually find a seat. Long tables encourage you to join others. The beer garden is huge. It is a nice way to spend hours. Sit under the trees and enjoy the chatter.
Ordering beer here is special. Grab a traditional stein. It comes in 500ml or 1L sizes. Wash it under the cold water fountain. This cools it for the beer. Next, line up at the cashier. Show her your stein. She will charge you. Then, take your receipt to the men filling beer. They fill it from wooden kegs.
The Augustiner Bräustübl Mülln is the largest of its kind in Austria. It has 2,400 seats. These are divided into halls and the beer garden. Over 600,000 visitors come each year. The brewery produces over 18,000 hectolitres of beer annually.
The Augustiner beer takes 12 weeks to brew. It uses hops, malt, yeast, and water. The recipe is traditional. The brewing process includes open chilling. A brewery tour lets you witness this art.
Märzen beer is available year-round. Seasonal varieties include Fastenbier and Bock beer. These have higher alcohol levels. Get your beer tapped from wooden barrels. It doesn’t get any better.
The Müllner Bräustübl Schmankerlgang offers culinary delights. Food stalls offer Pinzgauer Kaspressknödel. Also, roast chicken, bread, and cheeses. Don’t forget Liptauer, Leberkäse, and caraway roast pork. The Atanassoff family sells refreshing radish. It complements the beer perfectly.
So, raise your stein to Mülln. It is a place where beer and history flow together. Enjoy Salzburg’s traditions with every sip.