FREEDL Calma

AperoBeer. FREEDL Calma is a non-alcoholic basil beer brewed in a pale ale style to bring citrus and freshness. It was inspired by the desire to create a non-alcoholic alternative that matches beer both in taste and functionality. The producer describes it as an "AperoBeer", a category it claims as the first of its kind.^[1]

Name Origin. The name Calma references the calming properties of basil and the occasion of enjoying a beer, drawing on the phrase "Calma ti [chill] & get a beer".^[1]

Mountain Basil -- Body & Complexity. FREEDL Calma is made with alpine mountain basil (Bergbasilikum) sourced from the Stelvio National Park in South Tyrol, where it is handpicked at 1,500 metres altitude. According to Anlegermagazin Mein Geld, the basil comes from the herb farm Kräuterrebellen at Stilfserjoch. The producer states the basil contributes body to the mid-palate, compensating for the absence of alcohol, along with complexity in both nose and palate and what it describes as anti-stress adaptogenic properties. According to Der Bierprediger, the basil aroma is present but subtle and not dominant.^[1],[2]

Appearance. Süddeutsche Zeitung tasters described a golden yellow liquid with fine foam.^[3]

Nose. Süddeutsche Zeitung tasters noted an aroma of alpine herbs and mountain basil as a top note, with a hint of pepper.^[3]

Palate. Süddeutsche Zeitung tasters described a tangy and refreshing main drink with brief malt sweetness and slightly ethereal basil, finishing with a delicate sweetness and a pleasant honey note in the aftertaste.^[3]

The producer suggests FREEDL Calma with light, Mediterranean dishes on hot summer days, and with dishes that traditionally use basil, particularly pizza and pasta.^[2]

Specifications. FREEDL Calma is a non-alcoholic basil beer brewed in a pale ale style.^[4]

FREEDL Calma received a score of 10/10 points in the alcohol-free beer test conducted by Süddeutsche Zeitung, placing first in the category of non-alcoholic beers. According to Der Bierprediger, it was awarded Platinum at the International Craft Beer Award by Meininger.^[3],[5]