Menabrea

The brewery's story begins with Welf of Gressoney and the Caraccio brothers, but it was Giuseppe Menabrea who gave the company its name after purchasing it in 1864. He pioneered bottom-fermentation techniques in Italy, a method that set Menabrea apart from competitors still using older brewing traditions. When Giuseppe died in 1881, the Thedy family took the reins, where they've remained ever since.

In 1991, Menabrea joined the Birra Forst group while retaining its independence and identity. The partnership brought resources without disrupting the heritage that makes the brand special. Franco Thedy, fifth-generation family member, continues to lead operations today.

Menabrea's alcohol-free offering is Zero Zero, a 0.0% lager that maintains the brewery's commitment to quality. It pours golden yellow with a compact, lasting head. The flavour profile stays true to the Menabrea character: balanced, clean, and full-bodied despite the absence of alcohol. Expect delicate bitterness and a smooth finish that works equally well with seafood, risotto, or on its own.

You'll find Menabrea in Tesco, Morrisons, and Majestic stores across the UK, plus independent bottle shops and Italian restaurants. For a historic brewery that's been perfecting its craft for nearly 180 years, the move into alcohol-free brewing feels less like a trend-chase and more like a natural extension of a brand that's always prioritised drinkability over strength.