Brauerei Aying am Platzl München - Masskrug

From the collection of Jorge O. Soriano

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Brauerei Aying am Platzl München - Masskrug

Circa 1970s–1980s. It could edge into the late 1960s or early 1990s, but that two-decade window is the best fit stylistically and contextually. So, not an old stein, but rooted in rich traditions, culture, and history.


My Platzl Stein: A Connection to Bavarian Heritage.

It’s a 1L salt-glazed stoneware masskrug, with a blue designed mini-keg and inscriptions:

“Gruss aus München,” “Brauerei Aying,” and “Platzl München”.

This stein serves as a tangible link to the rich history of Munich, but more specifically, to its “Platzl” and the “Aying Brauerei”. While such steins are common and often produced as tourist souvenirs, their value lies in the stories they embody. I also have a beautiful matching wooden Aying Brauerei Platzl mini-keg, just like the one in the stein’s design, further enhancing its appeal, reflecting the brewery’s tradition of craftsmanship and hospitality.

What is the significance of “Platzl” on my Stein?

The term “Platzl” refers to a small square in Munich’s historic center, first mentioned by that name in 1780. This square became a hub for Munich’s beer culture in the 19th century, especially with the relocation of the Hofbräuhaus brewery’s operations there. Over time, the Platzl evolved into a vibrant entertainment district, featuring establishments like the “Platzl Bühne” theater in 1906 and so much more. Today, the Platzl remains a focal point of Munich’s cultural and social life.


So in the phrase: “Ayinger am Platzl”. …it literally means: “Ayinger at the Platzl.”


Ayinger Brewery’s Strategic Move to the Platzl.

Ayinger Brewery, founded in 1877 in the village of Aying, approximately 25 km south of Munich, sought to establish a presence in the city to expand its reach. In 1953, Franz Inselkammer, then-owner of the brewery, purchased the Platzl property, including the theater-restaurant venue. This acquisition allowed Ayinger to introduce its beers directly to Munich’s urban clientele, significantly enhancing its brand visibility and prestige.

The fact that Franz Inselkammer made that move right after WWI, when Munich was struggling with political upheaval, food shortages, and a battered infrastructure, makes it far more than just a “strategic expansion” — it was a bold, visionary act. In 1920s Munich, the Platzl area was still recovering from war, revolution (including the short-lived Bavarian Soviet Republic), and economic collapse. Investing in a property there wasn’t just risky — it was almost counterintuitive.

But that’s what makes it so compelling: Franz saw through the smoke and rubble. He saw the enduring spirit of Munich and its traditions — the charm and history of the Platzl, nestled in the heart of the Altstadt. By establishing a presence there, he wasn’t just expanding; he was anchoring the brewery into the cultural soul of the city, linking Ayinger beer with the heritage of Bavarian hospitality.

It also tells you something about Bavarian identity: It’s resilient. It holds tight to beauty and tradition even when times are hard. That little word — am Platzl — really does carry all of that with it. You see, I’m not just collecting steins — I’m uncovering stories of people who shaped German brewery history with courage , perseverance, and long vision.

Read on for much greater insight about the stories and people of Ayinger Brauerei.




References.

Aying Brewery. A Great Story of Perseverance!
[link]

Ayingger am P,atzl History.
[link]

Beer Advocate. Rate it!
[link]

View the collection of Jorge O. Soriano

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