Tobias Zollo, the head brewmaster at Weihenstephan, the world’s oldest brewery, has expressed a growing interest in alcohol-free beer. Weihenstephan, located in Freising, Bavaria, about 31 kilometers north of Munich, has been producing beer since 1040. Zollo acknowledged that while he prefers traditional beer, he often chooses alcohol-free beer during work or lunch due to its similar taste and lower calorie content. In recent years, the demand for alcohol-free beer has increased significantly, with non-alcoholic wheat beer and lager now making up 10% of Weihenstephan’s production. This shift reflects a broader trend in Germany, where beer consumption has been steadily declining.

Weihenstephan uses a unique process of evaporating alcohol to preserve the flavor of its alcohol-free options. Researchers from the Society of Hop Research have also developed special varieties of hops to retain the distinct aroma that might otherwise be lost when the alcohol is removed. Weihenstephan first introduced alcohol-free beers in the 1990s, and their popularity continues to grow. At this year’s Oktoberfest, alcohol-free beer is available in 16 out of the 18 large tents, with prices similar to traditional beer, ranging from 13.60 to 15.30 euros for a 1-liter mug. In addition, Munich saw the opening of its first alcohol-free beer garden, “Die Null,” ahead of Oktoberfest, offering a range of non-alcoholic beverages and catering to the changing preferences of consumers who are increasingly opting for sober alternatives while still enjoying the festive atmosphere.