Excavations in the Austrian Alps have revealed a set of resin-coated bronze cauldrons containing residues of an ancient, herb-infused ale. The cauldrons were found within a monumental stone structure designed to trap the first light of the vernal equinox, pointing to the existence of 'First-Thaw' beer festivals.
The study of the organic residues indicates that the brew was made from high-altitude grains and pine resin, specifically for large-scale communal consumption. This find highlights the logistical complexity of prehistoric Alpine gatherings and the sacred role of fermentation in seasonal transitions.