The experimental brewery from Žalec has been operating since the end of the previous century and creates small quantities of extremely interesting and innovative beers in their barrels, using various brewing techniques.

This brewery is essentially an experimental plant, formed 45 years ago within the Slovenian

Institute of Hop Research and Brewing in Žalec. It was established to cater to the research and professional support needs of the brewing industry. It is also essential for establishing the brewing value of new hop varieties and hybrids, which is required for the Slovenian hop plant variety programme. Its educational purpose is also an important part of its mission. Due to the nature of their work and their access to various brewing technologies, they brew different experimental beers in small quantities.

The Institute of Hops and Brewing of Slovenia (IHPS) is a public institution, founded by the Republic of Slovenia. The main activity is research and experimental development in the field of natural science and technology. The institute contributes significantly to the development of Slovenian hop growing and brewing and other agricultural industries through professional, research, educational and consulting work.

Since its establishment in 1952, the institute has been responsible for the scientific and technological development of Slovenian hop growing. It is the only institution where long-term knowledge in the field of hops growing is focused, be it on a scientific as well as on the professional and practical level. The result of the institute’s work are Slovenian hop varieties, grown in as many as 98% of Slovenian hop farms, which achieve a high brewing value even abroad. For breweries, the institute performs laboratory analyses of raw materials, intermediates in the technological process and finished products, and participates in resolving technological challenges. The institute also conducts training for beer tasters in three levels. They work closely with international organizations in charge of research and professional development of new test methods within the analysis commission of the European Brewers Association and the analysis group of hop laboratories.

Beers brewed at the Institute of Hops and Brewing of Slovenia can be tasted and bought at the Beer Fountain in Žalec. A visit to the Institute for Hops and Brewing of Slovenia is possible by prior arrangement, or a few times a year when we open our doors and offer beers from the research brewery to our guests. Open days will be announced in advance on our website and Facebook page.