Our Heineken lager contains just three main ingredients: barley, hop extract and water. When our A-yeast is added, this is when Heineken magically transforms into the brew we all know and love.
It all starts with barley. A grain bursting with goodness, naturally containing starch, protein and fibre. After soaking, the barley is gently heated to dry out over the course of a few days. This meticulous process is called malting.
A plant brimming with flavour. There are many varieties of hops, each with a distinctive flavour; from spicy aromas to mild herbal flavours. Selecting the right crop is an art form in itself.
Water is the main ingredient in lager, it can make up an incredible 95% of the finished product. Being such a vital ingredient, only the highest quality of water is used.
We brew Heineken with three simple ingredients: malt, water and hop extract. Going through the phases of cooking, cooling, fermentation and lagering.
It's about what you put in and what you leave out. No corn, no rice, no additives. No compromise
Water is mixed with the crushed, malted barley. This creates wort, a sweet sugary liquid, which is then boiled. Also hop extract is added to enhance the flavour.
At the right temperature, Heineken's unique A-Yeast is added, thus starting the natural process of fermentation that converts sugar into alcohol and CO2. This process creates the characteristic balanced Heineken taste. Our A-Yeast is happiest with a large surface area which is possible in our horizontal fermentation tanks.
We discovered the special A-Yeast in the 19th century. Ever since, it has been the key to Heineken's characteristic balanced taste. No plan B needed.
We take 28 days to brew Heineken. To get the perfectly balanced taste, refreshing clarity and beautiful golden-yellow colour. Quality takes time, it's worth it.
It’s been 140 years since Heineken has been able to call itself a microbrewer. we’ve never forgotten that the quality is measured in the purity of our beer. The drive for quality and perfection still lives on in the Heineken family.
Discover our history
