The story of Microbirrificio MóMò
Microbirrificio MóMò was founded in 2012 in the Mendrisiotto region of Ticino, born from a genuine passion for craft beer and a curiosity to experience and experiment with the brewing process firsthand.
The name MóMò comes from the historic dialect nickname used to refer to the people of the Mendrisiotto region in southern Ticino. We chose this name for its strong connection to the territory: an immediate reference to our roots and to the community where the Microbirrificio was founded.
The beginnings
The first batches were produced in very small, almost experimental quantities.
The very first brew was a beer in the Pilsner style which, for historical and naming reasons, was later renamed Blonde. At that time even the malts were milled manually using a small hand mill, reflecting a completely artisanal and self-taught approach.
These first beers quickly began circulating among friends and acquaintances, sparking curiosity and appreciation at a time when the craft beer movement in Ticino was still in its early stages.
From experimentation to a production reality
As interest grew, demand steadily increased. The beers sold out quickly, making it necessary to organize the activity in a more structured way.
The official registration as a brewery, with the assignment of the identification number 494, marked the transition to a true production reality. From that number also came the brewery’s symbolic beer: the 494, the blonde ale that still represents one of the historic labels of MóMò today.
Over time, new recipes and further experimentation expanded the range, accompanied by the arrival of other friends into the project.
A new space and steady growth
At the end of 2015 the brewery moved to a larger location better suited to its production needs. The new space made it possible to improve organization, expand the equipment and work with greater continuity.
The production system was entirely built by the team itself, with the support of experienced volunteer craftsmen, following a philosophy strongly focused on “handmade” work and direct control of every stage of the brewing process.
The culture of tasting
As the project grew, greater attention was also given to sensory analysis and the organoleptic quality of the beers.
One of the team members obtained beer sommelier diplomas, deepening professional tasting, aroma description and food pairings. This approach helps ensure balance, consistency and recognisability in every recipe.
Ingredients and brewing approach
The raw ingredients are carefully selected from specialized suppliers:
the malts mainly come from Germany, the hops from different regions of the world — including Germany, the Czech Republic, New Zealand and the United States — while the yeasts are chosen from producers known for their quality and reliability.
The brewing philosophy favors slower processes, careful craftsmanship and great attention to detail, placing quality at the center of every decision.
Sustainability and territory
Although local raw materials are limited, MóMò strives to collaborate with businesses as close as possible and to distribute mainly within the local area, reducing waste and unnecessary transport.
A concrete example of circular economy is the reuse of spent malt grains, which are used as feed for livestock by a local association.
Community and events
Over the years, Microbirrificio MóMò has taken part in numerous local events and craft beer festivals across Switzerland.
One of the most significant moments was the first craft beer festival in Ticino, held in the Mendrisiotto. On that occasion, MóMò not only participated in the event but also supported other breweries and placed the social dimension at the center, creating moments of sharing and conviviality.
Today
Today, MóMò continues to develop new recipes and interpretations, following the evolution of tastes while keeping alive the curiosity that originally gave birth to the project.
Although the brewery is built on volunteer work and friendship, it is run with a professional approach, great attention to detail and strong dedication.
A project born from passion, grown through commitment and carried forward with seriousness.
