In 1752 a Palatinate prince granted a brewing license. This marked the humble beginning of what we now know as Weldebräu. This isn’t just any brewery. It’s a legacy spanning centuries a testament to brewing tradition and innovation.
Weldebräu’s story unfolds not in Heidelberg itself but in nearby Plankstadt. Its roots however reach back to Schwetzingen. There in 1752 Heinrich Joos established a small brewery. His legacy eventually passed to Johann Welde in 1888. He gave the brewery its name. The Welde family’s connection is a vital thread woven through the brewery’s rich history.
Growth was inevitable. Space became limited in Schwetzingen. So in 1971 Weldebräu relocated to Plankstadt. This move allowed the brewery to expand its operations. It transformed into a modern independent brewery. Today Weldebräu boasts a diverse range of beers. They produce approximately 100000 hectoliters annually. Employing over 40 people Dr Hans Spielmann leads the company as of 2018.
Weldebräu isn’t just about quantity. It’s about quality and variety. Their product line ranges from traditional Pilsners to innovative creations. Think Welde No 1 Slow Beer Pils or perhaps the more adventurous Welde Jahrgangsbier Belgien a Saison brewed with Belgian hops. For those seeking something unique there is even a pepper pils. This brewery crafts beers with character and exceptional quality.
There’s more to the Weldebräu story. In 2002 it acquired a majority stake in the insolvent Palmbräu brewery. This expanded their reach. However by 2009 the Palmbräu operations were sold. More recently in 2017 the historic Weldebräu building in Schwetzingen was demolished. This made way for new developments. But in 2019 they opened a new Welde Brauhaus. It is a restaurant run by the brewery itself. The most recent chapter in this unfolding saga involves a 2024 acquisition of the Heidelberg brewery.
Weldebräu’s story is more than just beer. It’s a story of family perseverance innovation and a deep connection to its regional heritage. It’s a story of evolution. From a humble start in Schwetzingen to its current success. It continues to brew a legacy one exceptional beer at a time.