FROM IDEA TO GLASS: HOW THE FIRST MACEDONIAN WHEAT BEER SKOPSKO WEISS WAS CREATED

Pivara Skopje has introduced the first Macedonian wheat beer – SKOPSKO Weiss. In a conversation with Aleksandar Bojadžiski, Beer Production Director, and Marta Zavkova, Beer Marketing Manager at Pivara Skopje, we uncover how this beer was developed and what makes it so special.

A fusion of craftsmanship, courage, and curiosity

“SKOPSKO Weiss is not just a new beer – it’s an entirely new experience. With its distinct texture, fruity and spicy notes, and unfiltered character, Weiss represents a blend of SKOPSKO’s tradition and the innovative spirit of modern brewing,” says Aleksandar Bojadžiski, Beer Production Director at Pivara Skopje.

He adds that the beer stands out due to the use of wheat malt, a specific yeast, and a unique fermentation process that gives it its distinctive aroma and cloudy appearance.
“The production of wheat beer is significantly different from that of lagers. Technologically, it presents a challenge due to its unfiltered nature and the need to maintain flavor and aroma stability – but at the same time, it’s a creative adventure that opens doors to new styles and innovation in beer making,” Bojadžiski emphasizes.

“SKOPSKO Weiss brings an excitement that reveals itself with every sip,” adds Marta Zavkova, Beer Marketing Manager at Pivara Skopje. “It’s rich with layered flavors and aromas, from soft notes of banana and clove, through a subtle bitterness, to the lively acidity from the yeast. This beer takes you on a small journey with every glass. That’s why its world is open to everyone, from curious beer lovers to experienced enthusiasts. It’s a beer for the curious explorers of flavor, urban hedonists, and those who seek authentic experiences,” Zavkova concludes.

Perfecting the flavor was a long and precise process

“When I first tasted SKOPSKO Weiss, I immediately felt we had something special – the aroma, freshness, and texture were unlike anything we’d done before.
But finding the right flavor took time, patience, and a lot of tasting. Hundreds of glasses of Weiss were analyzed before we reached the perfect balance. It was a true creative adventure that showed us we were on the path to something new and authentic,” Bojadžiski explains.

Ingredients as the key to authenticity

For Bojadžiski, SKOPSKO Weiss represents a harmony between tradition and innovation – it retains the recognizable quality and values of the SKOPSKO brand, while introducing a new style, new ingredients, and a new technological approach.
The balance is achieved through careful monitoring of the brewing processes and flavors that remain true to the brand’s spirit, while also bringing freshness and authenticity aligned with modern trends and consumer expectations.

“Our primary focus when selecting ingredients for SKOPSKO Weiss was to create an authentic taste and texture.
We chose wheat malt for softness and cloudiness, a special yeast that delivers fruity and spicy aromas, and hops with a mild profile so as not to overpower the beer’s character. Every ingredient was carefully selected to achieve the right balance of freshness, fullness, and a distinctive aroma,” Bojadžiski explains.

High expectations for market success

For Zavkova, the key message behind SKOPSKO Weiss is that it brings a new experience within the SKOPSKO brand universe.
“I would say that SKOPSKO Weiss is a symbol of authenticity and progress. It brings the legacy of one of the world’s most iconic beer styles, but with the quality stamp that SKOPSKO is known for.
While lager represents the classic, unifying beer for a broad audience, Weiss offers a new dimension, something for those who seek more flavor, more sensation, and more storytelling in their glass.

SKOPSKO Weiss naturally complements our portfolio, continuing our mission to bring freshness into the beer experience and giving consumers a new reason to explore the diversity of the beer category,” Zavkova says.

Due to its distinct character, SKOPSKO Weiss naturally fits into various enjoyment moments.
“Whether it’s a quiet break after a long day, a spontaneous get-together, or dinner with great food – its complex yet drinkable taste makes every moment more intense and more authentic,” adds Zavkova.

“Judging by the initial positive reactions, I believe SKOPSKO Weiss will quickly find its place on the market and build a loyal base of consumers who appreciate its authentic taste and appearance,” Zavkova points out.

She adds: “Globally, the demand for specialty beers is growing, which confirms the importance of introducing innovations,  especially for SKOPSKO, a brand that has always been a pioneer in brewing craftsmanship and innovation.
Considering that our long-term goal is to remain a driver of the beer category, I can confidently say that we will continue launching new styles and flavors and Weiss is just the beginning,” concludes Marta Zavkova, Beer Marketing Manager at Pivara Skopje.