Tobias Zollo, the head brewmaster at Weihenstephan, the oldest brewery in the world, has observed a rising interest in alcohol-free beer. Founded in 1040 in Freising, Bavaria, Weihenstephan has long focused on making traditional beers. Zollo explained that even though he usually prefers classic options, he frequently chooses alcohol-free beer during work and lunch because it has a similar flavor and fewer calories. Recently, the demand for alcohol-free wheat beer and lager has increased, now making up 10% of the brewery’s total production. This rise in popularity corresponds with a decrease in overall beer consumption in Germany. To preserve the taste of alcohol-free beers, Weihenstephan uses a special method that removes alcohol while keeping the flavor. Scientists at the Society of Hop Research have developed new hop types to maintain the distinctive aroma after alcohol removal. This year at Oktoberfest, alcohol-free beer is available in 16 out of 18 large tents, priced between 13.60 and 15.30 euros for a 1-liter mug. Munich has also introduced its first alcohol-free beer garden, “Die Null,” for those wanting non-alcoholic options.