(Courtesy Heineken 0.0)

If you think you know a beer, think again.. Because Heineken’s got a lot of things going on that even the most informed beer-lovers don’t have a clue about.

 It’s Older Than Most Countries

Heineken was founded in 1864 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. That’s more than 160 years of brewing, making it one of the oldest global beer brands still widely consumed today.

The ‘E’ in Heineken Smiles on Purpose

That quirky slanted “e” in the logo? It’s not just a design flourish. It was tweaked in the 1940s to give the logo a “friendlier,” smiling appearance—because happy letters mean happy drinkers, right?

It’s a Hollywood Star

Heineken has appeared in countless films—but most famously replaced James Bond’s signature martini in Skyfall (2012). The move was part of a massive marketing deal reportedly worth $45 million.

It Was the First Imported Beer to Hit the U.S. After Prohibition

After the 13-year dry spell ended in 1933, Heineken was quick to jump on the opportunity. It became the first foreign beer shipped to America, giving it a serious head start in building U.S. brand loyalty.

The Original Recipe Is Still a Secret

Despite being a mass-market lager, Heineken’s exact brewing process remains tightly guarded. What we do know is it involves a proprietary A-Yeast, developed in the 19th century, which contributes to its signature flavor.

It’s a Family Business

For generations, the Heineken family has been involved in the company. Charlene de Carvalho-Heineken, daughter of long-time CEO Freddy Heineken, is now one of the wealthiest women in the world—and owns a controlling stake in the brand.

The Red Star Almost Caused Trouble

Heineken’s red star symbol has Soviet associations in some countries, especially during the Cold War. At one point, the brewery even made the star white to avoid political controversy.

It’s Available in More Than 190 Countries

Heineken is one of the most globally available beers—sold in nearly every country except a few with strict alcohol laws. That green bottle is a common sight from Brazil to Botswana.

There’s a Heineken Experience in Amsterdam

Beer lover’s bucket list: The Heineken Experience, housed in the company’s first brewery, is part museum, part interactive beer playground. Visitors can learn the history, pour their own pint, and even ride a “Brew You” virtual reality ride.

It’s Not Just One Beer

Though best known for its flagship lager, Heineken International owns over 300 brands worldwide—like Dos Equis, Amstel, and Lagunitas. So that Heineken empire goes way beyond what’s in the green bottle.

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