Some regions tell their stories through monuments.

Dobrogea tells them through landscapes, histories and flavours.

Hercinia Brewery, a small craft brewery based in Poarta Albă, Constanța County, is among the producers exploring how local identity can be expressed through beer. Founded by historian Marius Cojocaru, the brewery combines craftsmanship, storytelling and a strong connection to the heritage of Dobrogea. Every bottle reflects a place shaped by the Black Sea, the Danube, ancient civilizations and diverse cultural influences.

The brewery’s name itself carries a story. Hercinia refers to the ancient Hercynian forests mentioned in classical sources, evoking the deep historical layers that continue to inspire the region. Its beer portfolio follows the same approach, drawing inspiration from geography, history and local landmarks.

Among its creations, two beers were selected to represent Dobrogea – Candidate European Region of Gastronomy 2029 at the World Food Gift Challenge, organised by IGCAT in Crete, European Region of Gastronomy 2026.

Black Sea

The Black Sea is impossible to separate from the identity of Dobrogea.

Named after the sea that shapes the region’s climate, economy and culture, Black Sea is a dark IPA that combines roasted malt character with the aromatic intensity of hops. The beer reflects the contrasts that define the coast itself: strength and elegance, depth and freshness, tradition and modernity.

Its name is both geographical and symbolic. The Black Sea has connected Dobrogea to the wider world for thousands of years, serving as a crossroads of trade, migration and cultural exchange. In many ways, the beer celebrates that same spirit of openness and connection.

Rocky Road

If Black Sea is inspired by water, Rocky Road is inspired by land.

The name evokes the rocky landscapes, ancient geological formations and winding roads that cross Dobrogea, one of the oldest inhabited territories in Europe. As an IPA, Rocky Road offers a bolder hop profile and a sense of adventure that mirrors the region’s rugged character.

The beer reflects a journey through Dobrogea’s less explored side: its hills, quarries, vineyards and forgotten routes that reveal a different perspective on the region beyond the coastline.

A Collection Inspired by Dobrogea

The brewery’s wider portfolio continues this dialogue between beer and place.

Scythia Minor recalls the ancient Roman province that once occupied much of present-day Dobrogea, connecting contemporary craft brewing with the region’s classical heritage. Puerta Blanca references Poarta Albă, the locality where the brewery is based. Blonde Ale and Pilsner complete the collection with approachable styles that showcase the brewery’s commitment to traditional brewing techniques.

More Than a Craft Beer

Hercinia is more than a brewery.

It is part of a growing movement of producers who use local stories, landscapes and traditions to create products with a strong sense of place. Through beers such as Black Sea and Rocky Road, Dobrogea is presented not simply as a destination, but as a living cultural landscape that can be experienced through taste.

At the World Food Gift Challenge, Hercinia demonstrated that regional identity can be expressed in many forms. Sometimes through recipes. Sometimes through craftsmanship.

And sometimes, through a carefully brewed beer that carries the spirit of a region in every glass.