Birrificio Italiano is widely regarded as the first Italian craft brewery, founded in 1996 by Agostino Arioli near Como, in the Lombardy region of northern Italy. Beating Baladin to the title by just three months, Arioli made the leap from homebrewing to running a full brewpub, helping to ignite what would become a vibrant Italian craft beer movement. His vision was rooted in European brewing traditions, drawing inspiration from German and northern European styles while interpreting them through an Italian lens. The brewery is perhaps best known for Tipopils, a benchmark Italian Pilsner that Arioli developed in 1996 after setting out to recreate a northern German-style pilsner. The beer became so influential that it is credited with establishing the Italian Pilsner as a recognised style in its own right — characterised by dry-hopping and a pronounced hop character. Birrificio Italiano's portfolio reflects a commitment to craft and precision, with a focus on well-defined, flavourful beers that honour classical brewing techniques. The brewery's taproom has a reputation as a genuine local gathering place, far removed from the hype of beer tourism — a true village pub at heart. Arioli's international standing is evident through collaborations with respected breweries such as Firestone Walker, alongside whom he co-developed the beer La Piccola. Birrificio Italiano remains a cornerstone of Italian craft brewing heritage.