Hijos de Rivera, the Spanish brewery behind Estrella Galicia, has acquired a controlling stake in Basqueland Brewing, one of Spain’s most prominent craft beer brands. Founded in 2015 in Hernani, Basque Country, Basqueland has earned a loyal following with bold offerings like Imparable IPA and a 2024 output of 800,000 liters. The deal allows Hijos de Rivera to deepen its presence in the fast-growing craft beer sector while providing Basqueland with resources to scale its reach. Financial terms remain undisclosed, but Basqueland will continue to operate its brewing independently, preserving its creative identity.
This acquisition reflects a broader trend of large brewers investing in craft brands to meet rising demand for premium, distinctive beers. For Hijos de Rivera, which has previously backed craft ventures like Tyris and Carlow Brewing, the move strengthens its portfolio diversity. Basqueland, already a staple in European craft circles, stands to gain from Estrella Galicia’s global distribution network, potentially elevating its profile on the world stage. The partnership signals a dynamic shift in Spain’s beer landscape, blending tradition with innovation.
