Sample the extraordinary chestnut flavours of Pietra, the signature Corsican beer. Crafted according to traditional methods with the use of rigorously-selected quality ingredients it reveals a deep connection with the island’s unique terroir and its long-standing gastronomic heritage.
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PIETRA BEER
A round, balanced 6% lager where delicious notes of chestnut blend with honey aromas- the amber-hued frothy Pietra is a must-try for all beer enthusiasts visiting Corsica. Brewed with the use of top-quality chestnut flour and selected malts employing traditional techniques the beer has become an icon of Corsica’s rich culinary identity.
The story of Brasserie Pietra starts with a couple of pioneers, Armelle and Dominique Sialelli of Pietraserena whose desire to create authentic Corsican beer led to launching the first batches in 1996. The young entrepreneurs encountered various challenges in establishing the first Corsican brewery in an undisputed country of wine- from choosing the right site and assembling the top-of-the-art equipment to mastering the perfect recipe. The goal was to base the beer on the island’s signature product, the chestnut flour which, to this day, remains the brew’s key ingredient.
Pietra is now distributed throughout the entire island, the major cities of France as well as other European countries, the United States and Japan.
Refreshingly bitter, the beer makes a perfect aperitif while the complexity of its flavours allows for pairing it with traditional Corsican dishes such as game stew, hearty roasts, artisan charcuterie and hard cheese. Next time instead of having wine with your meal try to fill your glass with the delicious Pietra.
ENJOY A CULINARY TOUR IN AJACCIO
Taste mouthwatering Corsican specialities during an exciting culinary tour of Ajaccio, Corsica’s capital city. A local guide will introduce you to artisanal products and dishes away from the tourist traps. Tastings last for up to 3 hours and vegetarians are welcome. Learn more about this gourmet adventure and book your tour here.
CORSICAN CHESTNUT
” As long as we have chestnut trees, we will have bread. ”
– 1758 Pasquale Paoli
Chestnut, also called the bread tree, is an integral part of Corsica’s gastronomic heritage. Over 3000 productive hectares cultivated by 250 growers thrive in higher altitudes on rich soils of Castagniccia, Niolu, the forests of Aitone, or around Evisa. Propagated on the island during the Genoese rule majestic chestnut groves continue to be regenerated with their crucial role as a food source, wood-based tools and objects, or in fencing. Famous porcu nustrale, the native free-range pig delight in a diet of fallen nuts in mountainous areas.
Chestnut harvested in Autumn may be devoured in direct consumption grilled or boiled as well as processed into flour and then used in cakes, fritters, pulenda, bread and pasta. In 2006 Farine de chataigne corse was awarded the AOC/AOP certification (protected designation of origin) as a guarantee of superior quality produce achieved in accordance with a centuries-old recipe using traditional methods with no chemicals added. The Corsican flour is characterized by sweet biscuity flavours, delicate texture and a light beige colour.
OTHER BEERS AT BRASSERIE PIETRA
- PIETRA BIONDA (5.5%) – a premium chestnut-flavour blond beer with fresh, slightly bitter notes and a golden colour.
- PIETRA ROSSA (6.5%) – a red beer flavoured with cherry, raspberry, and blackberry.
- CORSICAN IPA (6%) – an aromatic ale with tropical fruit aromas and a bitter finish.
- ORGANIC BLONDE (5.5%) – a gluten-free ale crafted from spring barley, organic malts, and chestnut flour.
- COLOMBA (5%) – a popular Corsican lager, naturally cloudy with characteristic delicate notes of fresh maquis herbs and citrus.
- COLOMBA ROSEE (4.5%) – an unfiltered lager boasting lively fruity flavours. Fresh and light, serves perfectly as a thirst-quencher.
- PIETRA BRASSIN D’HIVER (7%) – an award-winning spicy robust ale with winter malts and citrus aromas softened by notes of honey and gingerbread.
- SERENA (5%) – a 100% pure malt blond. Light and refreshing it is a perfect beer for warm summer days.
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