Full of hops: These are the top 10 Czech beverages, as rated by tourists

When it comes to Czech beverages, beer dominates the list—unsurprisingly in a country known for its legendary brewing tradition. In the latest TasteAtlas ranking for October 2024, global fans rated their favorite Czech beverages, showcasing a range of drinks that highlight both tradition and local flavor. But mostly beers.

The TasteAtlas rankings are compiled from an international audience, with votes filtered to ignore local or national biases; tourists can be presumed to make up the majority of voters. This process helps ensure a fair representation of the drinks that resonate on a global scale, rather than just within Czech borders.

While beer certainly shines, the list also includes a few surprises. Beloved brews from smaller breweries stand alongside larger brands, reflecting the widespread appeal of Czech beer styles. And for those seeking variety, wines from Moravia and even a traditional tea from Bohemia make the cut.

At the top of the list is České pivo (Czech beer), which is not just a general term but the Protected Geographical Indication that represents the majority (about 65 percent) of the beers brewed in the Czech Republic. This designation applies to local beers brewed according to specific criteria, including traditional brewing methods and the use of local ingredients.

But which Czech beer is the highest-rated? Coming in second on the TasteAtlas list is Chodské pivo, a lesser-known but highly regarded lager from the historic Chodsko region in the Plzeň area. Produced by Pivovar Chodovar, Chodské pivo has been brewed since the 12th century, making it one of the oldest beer styles in the country.

In an unexpected twist, this regional favorite outranked the more widely recognized Pilsner, which originates in nearby Pilsen and ranked fourth on the TasteAtlas list. Although Pilsner is perhaps the Czech Republic’s most famous beer export, and Pilsner Urquell the country's best-known brand, Chodské pivo edged it out in the rankings.

Also on the list in fifth place is Černá Hora beer, produced in the namesake Moravian town. Known for its traditional brewing techniques dating back to the 13th century, Černá Hora offers both light and dark beers, as well as unfiltered varieties.

Znojemské pivo, brewed by Znojemský městský pivovar, and Českobudějovické pivo (produced by Budvar and other local breweries) also made the list, showcasing a range of famed Czech beers known for their distinctive flavors, ingredients, and brewing heritage.

While beer claims most of the top spots, Moravian wines also earned a place. Ranked third on the TasteAtlas list is Pálava, a white wine variety originating in the Pálava region of South Moravia. This cross between Müller Thurgau and Gewürztraminer grapes creates a full-bodied, aromatic wine with subtle sweetness and hints of vanilla, rose, and tropical fruit.

Cabernet Moravia, another Moravian specialty, made the list as well. Developed as a hybrid of Cabernet Franc and Zweigelt, it is appreciated for its deep garnet color and notes of blackcurrant, cherry, and pepper, which provide a sophisticated yet approachable flavor profile.

In ninth place on the TasteAtlas list is Chamomilla bohemica, a dried chamomile herbal tea with Protected Designation of Origin status. This tea is made from chamomile flowers cultivated in loamy, sandy soils under precise climate conditions, creating a delicate, calming beverage. It's the only non-alcoholic Czech beverage to make the top 10.

Becherovka, perhaps the Czech Republic's most famous spirit, just fell short of making the top 10, coming in at number 11 on the list. See the full rankings for best Czech beverages from international voters at TasteAtlas.