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The K. Spoetzl Brewery, nestled in Shiner, Texas, has a deep-rooted history that stretches back to 1909 when it was founded by German and Czech immigrants. Originally called the Shiner Brewing Association, it was created to brew traditional European-style beers for the growing German and Czech communities in the region, who missed the lagers from their homelands.

In 1914, the brewery took a pivotal turn when it hired Kosmos Spoetzl, a skilled Bavarian brewmaster. Spoetzl, born and trained in Germany, brought with him time-honored brewing methods, infusing the brewery’s beers with authentic German style. A year later, in 1915, Spoetzl purchased the brewery and renamed it after himself, securing the future of what would become a Texas institution. Under his leadership, the brewery survived Prohibition by making ice and a non-alcoholic “near beer,” emerging stronger once the alcohol ban was lifted.

Once Prohibition ended, Kosmos Spoetzl and his team quickly resumed brewing Shiner’s signature German-style lagers, growing the brewery’s reputation throughout Texas. Kosmos Spoetzl remained at the helm of the brewery until his death in 1950, after which his daughter, Cecelie, took over operations. As the only female brewery proprietress in the country at that time, Cecelie Spoetzl kept the family legacy alive, ensuring that Shiner continued to brew high-quality, traditional beers. Under her guidance, the brewery maintained its small-town, independent character, and the Spoetzl family kept the brewery running for decades.

Despite the brand’s relatively small size, Shiner Bock  continued to grow in popularity during the 1960s and 1970s, eventually becoming Spoetzl Brewery’s flagship beer. By the 1980s, Shiner’s loyal following had expanded beyond its local roots to much of the state, but the brewery was still relatively unknown outside of Texas.

In 1989, the brewery’s future took another transformative step when San Antonio businessman Carlos Alvarez purchased it. His vision helped expand Shiner’s reach beyond local borders while preserving its heritage and commitment to quality. Under Alvarez’s leadership, the brewery continued to flourish, modernizing its operations while keeping its signature German-inspired lagers and craft beers at the core of its identity. Alvarez’s influence helped grow Shiner into a beloved brand not only across Texas but also throughout the country.

Today, the Brewery remains family owned and fiercely independent continuing its tradition of craftsmanship while venturing into new areas. Visitors can enjoy Texas’ top brewery tour, which offers an immersive look into Shiner’s storied history and brewing process. The experience doesn’t stop there—guests can indulge in authentic Texas barbecue at the on-site restaurant and sample the new distillery’s craft spirits with exclusive tastings. With over a century of history behind it, Shiner continues to blend old-world techniques with modern innovation, ensuring it remains true to its German and Czech roots while embodying an authentic Texas spirit for generations to come.

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  • Monday10:30 AM - 06:00 PM
  • Tuesday10:30 AM - 06:00 PM
  • Wednesday10:30 AM - 06:00 PM
  • Thursday10:30 AM - 06:00 PM
  • Friday10:30 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Saturday10:30 AM - 08:00 PM
  • Sunday11:00 AM - 06:00 PM

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