Mani craft beer is not just a drink – it is an experience, a narrative that unfolds with every sip. In a rough and proud place, with stone and sun, a beer was born that carries the soul of Mani: pure, handmade, delicious. The Mani Brewery follows local tradition, fresh ingredients and the vision of its creators.
What does “craft beer of Mani” mean?
Craft beer (or “handmade beer”) is the opposite of industrial. It is brewed in small quantities, with special care in the process, without filtering or pasteurization, preserving the aromas and naturalness of the raw materials. Mani Brewery beer is not the result of a production line, but of art and dedication.
The difference is not only in taste – but in philosophy. Craft beer respects the raw material, the local identity, the time it takes for the product to “mature”. And in Mani, craft beer gains character from its very soil.
The story of Mani Brewery
Mani Brewery was founded in 2017 in the village of Agios Nikolaos, in Western Mani, by Christos Meimeteas, inaugurating Craft culture in Mani, and in 2025 it settled in the picturesque village of Neochori, in a place where innovation meets tradition.
The name of their first beer, NEMA, comes from the Mani dialect and means “nod” or “hand movement” — a discreet way of communication full of intensity, just like the beer itself.
In its few years of operation, the brewery has managed to stand out, winning the love of residents, visitors and those who believe that beer can have a soul.
The Mani Tradition
Mani is not just a place – it is a character. It is the relentless light, the dry soil, the harsh mountains, the traditional castles, the stones and the simple life. This influence of the place on the product – also defines the beer of the first Mani Brewery.
The water of Mani, the microclimate and the energy of the place are incorporated into the final product. Just as the wine of the place expresses its soil, so the beer born in Mani reflects its character.
The production process
The Mani Brewery operates in 4,000 sq m facilities, using modern equipment but remaining faithful to the handmade approach. Production is done in small batches, so that each beer is unique.
The barley, hops, yeast and water are selected with strict criteria, while fermentation and maturation are done with patience, without filtering and without pasteurization – to preserve the natural characteristics of each label.
The Beers of Mani Brewery
The Mani Brewery range includes creations that speak directly to the palate:
- NEMA Blonde: a blonde beer with balanced bitterness and fruity aroma.
- NEMA Session Ale: more intense, with citrus and hop aromas.
- NEMA IPA: characteristics of American India Pale Ale with rich aroma and body.
- NEDA Lager: clean, refreshing, for every day.
- NEDA Weiss: wheat, with notes of banana and spices.
- Kalamatianos Zythos, refreshing lager with rich foam
Comparison of Craft and Industrial Beer
Craft beers like those of Mani Brewery are made to inspire, not just quench. They are not based on quantity, but on quality. Industrial beer has a stable, neutral taste, designed for mass consumption. In contrast, craft beer has depth, character, evolution.
And when this is combined with the authenticity of Mani tradition, the result is more than just a beer – it is an experience.
Behind every Mani Brewery label lies a vision, a local story and passionate people. Beer is created by people who know the place and care about what reaches the consumer’s glass.
Mani Brewery does not just sell products. It brings the local community together, supports producers, participates in events, organizes festivals, and creates culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is craft beer?
It is beer that is produced by hand, in small quantities, without filtering or pasteurization, with respect for the raw material.
Why do we say it has a “soul”?
Because it captures the character of the place, the culture and the love of its creators.
What does “Nema” mean?
It is a word from the Mani dialect and means “nod” – a kind of silent, authentic communication.
Where is the beer produced?
In the stone-built Neochori of Western Mani – amidst nature, close to the sun and the stony landscape.
What are the most famous products?
Nema Blonde, Nema, Session Ale, Nema IPA, Neda Lager and Neda Weiss and Kalamatianos Zythos – all with different characteristics but a common origin: Mani.
Discover all the labels of Mani Brewery and see how you can get them or visit our brewery. Craft beer gains meaning when it is connected to its place and people. And Mani knows how to give soul to what it creates.
