Akademija Brewery

As your guide through the evolving landscape of Balkan brews, I find Akademija particularly exciting because it proves that Montenegro isn’t just about heritage breweries—it’s also about innovation and embracing the global craft beer revolution. Since opening in 2017, this Podgorica-based brewery has quickly become synonymous with quality craft beer throughout Montenegro.

Whether you’ve enjoyed their beers at one of their taprooms in Podgorica or Budva, discovered them in a local supermarket, or are simply curious about Montenegro’s thriving craft scene, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s explore the academic approach to brewing excellence!

A New Era Begins: The History of Akademija Brewery

Akademija Brewery opened its doors in November 2017 in the heart of Podgorica, Montenegro’s capital, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s brewing history. As the first large-scale craft brewery in Montenegro, Akademija was founded with an ambitious vision: to prove that Montenegrins were ready for beers beyond traditional pilsners and to elevate local brewing to international craft standards.

The brewery is owned by Montecco, a company that saw the growing global craft beer movement and believed Montenegro was ready for its own craft revolution. They invested in modern brewing equipment, recruited skilled brewers, and created a brand that cleverly merged academic achievement with brewing excellence—hence the name “Akademija” (Academy).

In just six years of existence, Akademija has won numerous awards and accolades, quickly establishing itself on the beer enthusiast map both domestically and internationally. Their success demonstrated that there was indeed a thirsty market for craft beer in Montenegro, paving the way for other craft breweries to follow.

Today, Akademija operates taprooms in both Podgorica and the coastal tourist hub of Budva, while their bottled beers are available in supermarkets and bars throughout Montenegro, making craft beer accessible to everyone from curious tourists to devoted local enthusiasts.

The Taste: Getting to Know Akademija’s Academic Lineup

True to their educational theme, Akademija has crafted over ten different types of beer, each carrying academic titles that cleverly represent their hierarchy of excellence. Here are their core offerings:

The Core Academic Series

• Profesor Doktor (IPA): The highest academic rank deserves the boldest beer. This India Pale Ale represents Akademija’s commitment to hoppy, aromatic craft beer. Expect pronounced hop character with citrus, pine, and floral notes, balanced by a solid malt backbone. Perfect for those who appreciate assertive, flavor-forward beers.
• Vrhunski Magistar (Pale Lager): The “Supreme Master” is Akademija’s take on a premium pale lager. Clean, crisp, and refreshing, this beer bridges the gap between traditional Montenegrin lager lovers and craft beer newcomers. Golden in color with a balanced malt-hop profile that’s approachable yet refined.
• Brat Dekan (Oktoberfest): The “Brother Dean” brings Bavarian tradition to Montenegro. This Märzen-style beer features rich amber color, toasty malt character, and smooth drinkability. Typically available seasonally, it’s a celebration of traditional German brewing married with Montenegrin craft sensibilities.
• Čista Desetka (Weissbeer): The “Perfect Ten” is Akademija’s wheat beer offering. Expect classic Bavarian weizen characteristics: banana and clove esters, refreshing citrus notes, and a creamy, smooth mouthfeel. Light, cloudy appearance and highly drinkable—perfect for warm Montenegrin summers.
• Vječiti Apsolvent (Dark Lager): The “Eternal Graduate” never quite leaves the academic world—much like this rich, satisfying dark lager never quite leaves your memory. Features roasted malt flavors, chocolate and coffee notes, with the clean finish characteristic of lager fermentation.

Additional Varieties

Beyond their core lineup, Akademija has produced Blond Lager, various Ales, and seasonal specialties, demonstrating their brewing versatility. With over ten different beers crafted, they continue to experiment and expand their academic curriculum of flavors.

More Than Just a Drink: Akademija’s Impact on Montenegro

Akademija Brewery’s significance extends far beyond the beers themselves:

• Craft Beer Pioneer: As Montenegro’s first large-scale craft brewery, Akademija proved that craft beer could succeed in a market dominated by traditional lagers, opening doors for the entire craft movement.
• Quality Standard: Their numerous awards and accolades set a benchmark for brewing excellence in Montenegro, raising expectations for what local beer can and should be.
• Tourist Attraction: Their taprooms, particularly in Budva, have become destinations for tourists seeking authentic local craft beer experiences beyond the ubiquitous Nikšićko.
• Education & Culture: Through their academic branding and quality focus, they’ve helped educate Montenegrin consumers about beer styles, brewing processes, and the value of craft brewing.
• Economic Contribution: Created jobs, supported local economy, and added diversity to Montenegro’s beverage industry beyond wine and traditional lagers.

Drinking an Akademija beer means supporting Montenegro’s craft brewing future and celebrating innovation alongside tradition.

Perfect Pairings: Enjoying Akademija Beers with Food

The diverse Akademija lineup offers pairing possibilities for every meal:

• Profesor Doktor (IPA) + Spicy Foods: The hop bitterness cuts through spicy dishes beautifully. Try it with grilled peppers, spicy sausages, or even Asian-fusion cuisine.
• Vrhunski Magistar (Pale Lager) + Seafood: Perfect with Montenegro’s excellent Adriatic seafood—grilled fish, calamari, or shellfish. The clean profile doesn’t overpower delicate flavors.
• Brat Dekan (Oktoberfest) + Hearty Meats: Pair with roasted pork, sausages, or rich Montenegrin stews. The malty sweetness complements savory, caramelized flavors.
• Čista Desetka (Weissbeer) + Light Dishes: Excellent with salads, chicken, or as a refreshing accompaniment to traditional Balkan pies (burek, sirnica).
• Vječiti Apsolvent (Dark Lager) + Desserts: Try with chocolate-based desserts or rich, creamy dishes. The roasted notes complement sweet flavors beautifully.

Finding Akademija Beers

In Montenegro, Akademija beers are readily available and growing in popularity:

• Taprooms: Visit their bars in Podgorica (in the heart of the capital) and Budva (on the coast) for the freshest pours and the full lineup on tap.
• Supermarkets: Look for bottled Akademija beers in local supermarkets throughout Montenegro—they’re becoming increasingly common.
• Bars & Restaurants: Many establishments across Montenegro now stock at least one or two Akademija varieties, particularly in Podgorica and tourist areas.
• Craft Beer Venues: Specialty beer bars and craft-focused establishments in Montenegro will typically feature the full Akademija range.

International availability is still limited, but as Montenegro’s craft beer reputation grows, expect to see Akademija beers appear in specialty importers focusing on Balkan craft brews.

Živjeli uz Akademija! Here’s to Montenegro’s craft beer revolution and the academic pursuit of brewing excellence.