Reinheitsgebot

On April 23,1516 (500 years ago today), Germany passed into law "Reinheitsgebot" or German purity law. This law proclaimed that German beer may only be brewed with 3 ingredients only. Water, Barley, and Hops. This was a law that did 2 things. #1. It was mainly introduced in part to prevent price competition with bakers for wheat and rye so that bread would be affordable for everyone. Wheat and rye cannot be used in Germany to brew beer. #2. It was also considered to be one of the first "food protection" laws to protect consumers. This would ensure no other additives would be used to contaminate German beers. Believe it or not this law still stands today! I will be commemorating this event by drinking this commemorative beer brewed just for Reinheitsgebot from Weihenstephaner Brewery in Germany - The oldest Brewery in the world! Prost!!