A taste of Galicia in every glass

In the misty, green hills of Galicia, in Spain’s far northwest, a brewing legacy was born over a century ago. More than just a beer, Estrella Galicia has grown into a symbol of regional pride, craftsmanship, and the enduring power of tradition in a modern world.

A Star is Born (1906)

The story begins in 1906 when José María Rivera Corral, a Galician entrepreneur returning from Cuba and Mexico, decided to invest in his homeland. Armed with knowledge of the beverage trade and a deep love for Galicia, he founded a small brewery in the port city of A Coruña. He called it La Estrella de Galicia – “The Star of Galicia.”

In its early days, the brewery produced both beer and ice, a necessity in the pre-refrigeration era. But even then, the beer stood out. It wasn’t just a drink – it was a celebration of Galician identity.

Family-Owned for Five Generations

What makes Estrella Galicia truly unique in the beer world is that it has remained family-owned for over 100 years. The brewery, now known as Hijos de Rivera, is still run by the Rivera family. While most global beer brands have been swallowed up by corporate conglomerates, Estrella Galicia has stayed true to its roots—literally and figuratively.

Their secret? A commitment to authentic brewing, local ingredients, and the values of quality over quantity.

From Local Legend to Global Icon

For decades, Estrella Galicia was a regional favorite in northern Spain. But starting in the late 20th century, the company began to expand beyond Galician borders. With modernization of its facilities and a bold marketing strategy, the beer began showing up in bars and restaurants across Spain—and eventually, across the world.

Today, Estrella Galicia is available in over 60 countries, and continues to win over beer lovers with its clean, refreshing taste and distinctive bitterness.

The Premium Line: 1906 Series

As the brand grew, so did its range. Estrella Galicia launched the 1906 Series, a premium line of craft-style beers that nod to the brewery’s founding year. Highlights include:

1906 Reserva Especial – A smooth, amber lager with a rich malty character.
1906 Red Vintage – Nicknamed “La Colorada,” this red beer is full-bodied and complex.
1906 Black Coupage – A bold, dark beer with roasted coffee and chocolate notes.

These brews have earned critical acclaim and a loyal following among beer enthusiasts.

Sustainability at Its Core

Estrella Galicia isn’t just looking back—it’s looking forward. The company is deeply invested in sustainability, working to reduce water usage, lower emissions, and transition to renewable energy in its production processes.

To meet growing demand without compromising its values, Estrella Galicia is building a new state-of-the-art facility in Morás (Arteixo), just outside A Coruña. This expansion will allow for greater production while staying environmentally conscious.

A Taste of Galicia in Every Glass

Drinking Estrella Galicia isn’t just about the beer—it’s about experiencing a piece of Galician culture. The brand is proudly tied to its region, from its use of natural Galician spring water, to its sponsorship of local music, sports, and cultural events.

Whether you’re enjoying it at a bar in Madrid, a seaside café in Lisbon, or a music festival in Berlin, Estrella Galicia brings a little piece of the Atlantic coast, the rainy hills, and the soul of northern Spain with every sip.

Final Thoughts

In a world full of mass-produced beer, Estrella Galicia stands out. It’s a brand that honors its past while embracing the future—still family-owned, still proud, and still rooted in Galicia.

Cheers!