Easter in Greece is an experience that touches all the senses. The glow of candles, the echoing of “Christos Anesti”, the smells of a feast prepared with what can only be described as… religious devotion. But amidst all this celebration, something seems to be missing. The beer.

Now you might ask, “Wait, is there such a thing as an Easter beer?” The short answer? Not exactly. Unlike the rich, spicy Christmas ales that show up every December, there isn’t a beer style officially dedicated to Easter. But maybe it’s time to ask ourselves—why not? Why shouldn’t craft beer earn its place at the Easter table?

Beer and Religion: A Sacred Bond with Deep Roots

As surprising as it may sound, the relationship between beer and religion isn’t just real—it’s foundational. Long before mass production beers or modern craft brewing, some of the first people to bring together water, malt, and hops in a brew kettle were monks.

In medieval Europe — especially in Belgium, Germany, and France — monasteries were the original beer labs. Not just because monks had the time and patience to perfect their recipes, but because they wanted to create something safe and nourishing to drink. At a time when water could be dangerous, boiled and fermented beer, was a far safer option.

From a different perspective, during strict periods of fasting, monks relied on these nutrient-rich brews to sustain them. With meat and dairy off the menu, beer became their “liquid bread”—rich, full-bodied, and loaded with both calories and character. And above all, brewed with centuries of knowledge and a touch of divine purpose.

Monastic Beers Today

That legacy didn’t vanish. In fact, it lives on—in the famed Trappist beers still brewed within monastery walls, and in abbey-style ales inspired by those ancient traditions.

What ties them all together? Complexity, aroma bold flavor and a certain reverence—as if each sip carries a story. These beers aren’t made to be chugged; they invite contemplation. And with ABVs often reaching up to 12%, rushing through one isn’t just unwise—it’s a fast track to finding yourself tipsy before the lamb even hits the table.

Microbreweries and the Rise of the “Easter-ish” Beer

These days, both in Greece and beyond, microbrewers are daring to play with the aromas and spices of Easter—creating small-batch brews that smell like springtime celebration. Spiced beers are the brewer’s way of asking: why not try something different this year?
We’re talking about beers infused with magic: mahleb, mastiha, orange peel, cinnamon—even cardamom and coriander! The result? A flavorful journey that evokes Easter baking, grandma’s place, and a stroll past a neighborhood bakery—wrapped into a single sip. Not all of them are sweet. Some are dry and cheeky, while others smell like they were baked right alongside your tsoureki.

And while these kinds of beers tend to appear more often in winter or around Christmas, a growing number of brewers are bringing them into the spring season. Many are even betting that mahleb was born for Easter vibes. Take a sip of one, and it might just feel like you’re drinking liquid tsoureki—bubbly, fragrant, and full of attitude. If you stumble upon a Greek craft beer with that kind of seasonal twist, don’t overthink it—grab it.

So What Should We Drink at Easter?

As divine as monastic ales may be, let’s be honest: at a Greek Easter table packed with roast lamb, kokoretsi, vibrant salads, sweet bread, and red eggs… they’re not always the perfect match. You need something lighter and more crispy. A beer that can stick with you from midday to late evening.
A beer for the moment your uncle—newly converted to the craft side—decides to sit with the young crowd and unveil his beer wisdom scroll. Once a loyal consumer of mass produced lagers, he’s now downloaded Untappd and insists on taking aesthetic photos of his glass in front of the grill.

That’s the time that Lazy Mules Pilsner enters to the game for a buzzer beater save. A beer that doesn’t shout for attention with fireworks and fanfare. It simply wins you over… with one sip.

Fresh, crisp, and thirst-quenching, it’s the perfect companion for balancing out rich meats, bold spices, and—let’s be honest—sheer quantity.

More Than a Beer—An Experience.

Easter is a celebration of love, renewal, and togetherness. It’s the perfect time to rediscover the joy of eating side by side, sharing stories, laughter, and yes—drinks. Not for the buzz, but for the bond. For that moment when someone raises a glass and says “cheers”, and everyone knows exactly what they mean.

There may not be an official “Easter beer” style (yet), but the season is perfect for a little beer exploration. The weather is right. The company is ready. So this year, when you set the Easter table, think beyond wine and tsipouro. Pick a beer that reflects your personality, your roots, and your people..
Try something new. Support your local breweries. A craft beer at Easter isn’t just a conversation starter—it’s a statement. A sign that you respect tradition, but aren’t afraid to evolve it. That you appreciate what’s local, handmade, and honest.

Happy Easter—and cheers!