In the serene village of Taybeh, nestled in the West Bank northeast of Ramallah, a unique story of determination and cultural pride unfolds through the frothy head of a beer glass. Established in 1994 by brothers Nadim and David Khoury, Taybeh Brewery stands as the first microbrewery in the Middle East, symbolizing a blend of tradition, innovation, and resilience.
A Family’s Vision Amidst Adversity
The Khoury family’s journey began in Brookline, Massachusetts, where Nadim honed his brewing skills before returning to his ancestral village. With an initial investment of $1.5 million from selling their property in the U.S., they established the brewery, navigating challenges posed by regional instability and logistical hurdles.
Despite facing obstacles such as import restrictions and water access issues, Taybeh Brewery has persisted, producing approximately 600,000 liters of beer annually and exporting to over 17 countries, including Sweden, Japan, and the United States
What’s their range include?
Taybeh Brewery offers a diverse range of beers
- Golden: The original brew, a crisp and refreshing lager with a 5% ABV.
- Dark: A rich, malty beer inspired by monastic brewing traditions, with a 6% ABV.
- Amber: Introduced in 2007, this 5.5% ABV beer offers a balanced flavor profile.
- White: A Belgian-style wheat beer launched in 2013, featuring a 3.8% ABV and a hint of citrus.
- IPA: A hoppy addition to the lineup, catering to craft beer enthusiasts.
- Non-Alcoholic: Developed in 2008 to cater to the local Muslim population, offering the taste of beer without the alcohol content.
The brewery also experiments with limited-edition brews infused with local herbs like za’atar and sage, showcasing the rich flavours of Palestinian heritage.
The Cultural impact
Taybeh Brewery is more than a producer of beer; it’s a cultural institution. Since 2005, it has hosted the annual Taybeh Oktoberfest, attracting thousands of visitors to celebrate Palestinian culture, music, and, of course, beer.
The brewery also stands as a beacon of female empowerment in the region. Madees Khoury, Nadim’s daughter, is recognised as the first female brewer in Palestine and the Middle East, playing a pivotal role in the brewery’s operations and international outreach.
Taybeh Beer embodies the spirit of perseverance, blending traditional brewing techniques with a vision for cultural expression and economic development. Each bottle tells a story of a family’s dedication to their heritage and their unwavering commitment to crafting quality beer under challenging circumstances.