What comes to your mind when we say beer? A cool drink to enjoy on a hot summer day, or a drink to relax after a busy day at work – which one is more relevant? One of the most popular liquors in India, the history of beer in the country dates back to 1500 BC. It was then a mixture of rice and barley, mixed with local fruits called ‘sura’. Eventually, in 1830, Edward Abraham Dyer traveled to India from the United Kingdom and established the country’s first brewery – the Kasauli Brewery. Since then, we have seen a large number of people enjoying domestic and imported beers (from different parts of the world). In fact, today you will find a wide choice of beer across India, which often leaves us confused as to which one to choose.
fret not; As always, we’ve got you covered. We have put together a list of our favorite beer brands available in India. Let us tell you about the options.
Here are the top 9 beer brands in India:
1. Six Zones:
A Belgian-style wheat beer, Six Fields has a rich color, smooth flavor and engaging aroma – created especially for those who enjoy a fine ale. Manufactured by Devans Modern Breweries Limited (of Godfather Beer), this desi, ready-to-drink drink is infused with indigenous spices including coriander to release an aroma that instantly tugs at the heartstrings. The brand recently launched two new flavors: Six Fields Cult and Six Fields Blanche. Six Fields Cult comes with a citrusy spin. Its freshness of orange peel and sweet and aromatic touch of coriander excite the senses. Six Fields Blanche is a Belgian-style white blanche beer, carefully woven with six ingredients. Steeped in sweet notes of wheat, Six Fields Blanche is available in cans, bottles and kegs.
2. Godfather:
One of the oldest beer brands in India, Godfather is a flagship beer brand of Devans Modern Breweries Limited, Jammu established in 1961. It’s available in two — the Super 8 with eight percent ABV and the Legendary with 7.2 percent ABV. However, due to its brewing cycle, the Godfather has a slightly more bitter taste than other Indian beers.
3. Kingfisher:
It is probably one of the most popular Indian beer brands that we can think of. Manufactured by United Breweries Group, the Bangalore based brand was established in 1970. Kingfisher offers a range of beers as per your choice. If you like strong beer, go for Kingfisher Strong. Those who like light beer will like Kingfisher Ultra. Apart from this, the brand has also launched its own craft beer – Ultra Witbier – for those who like their drinks premium and customized.
4. Budweiser:
Another very popular beer in India, Budweiser is a medium-bodied, American-style ale brewed with the best hops and barley. It is available in bars and liquor stores across India and has a crisp texture and taste. In fact, Budweiser has a certain smoothness to it, making the drink widely available around the world.
5. White Rhinoceros:
This Belgian style wheat beer is considered one of the finest craft beers in India. It is light and full of refreshing flavors of orange peel, coriander seeds etc. It is smooth and easy to drink for everyone.
6. Simba:
Another desi beer, Simba is made and customized to your liking. It has four different forms – Wit, Stout, Light and Strong. While on the one hand it is refreshing with the mixed flavors of Indian spices, on the other hand Mota is a rich, dark colour, with bold and roasty flavours, with hints of chocolate, caramel etc. On the other hand, Simba Light is smooth and crisp and Simba Strong has a vigorous taste and aroma.
7. Corona:
If you are someone who likes bitter-sweet taste in your drinks, then Corona is the drink for you. A blend of malted barley, corn and yeast, the beer is medium bodied and has a strong aroma. Simply pour a bottle of Corona into a beer mug, add a slice of lemon and enjoy! Trust us, it’s so refreshing.
8. CISC 0.0
L’Opera introduced CISK 0.0 – Non-Alcoholic Lager imported from Malta across all its outlets in Delhi NCR. CISK 0.0 alcohol-free beer, 100% flavored and 0% alcohol, was only recently introduced in 2021. It is fermented with the same ingredients as CISK Lager, but with all of its alcohol content removed afterwards. Hence, the same malty and fruity finish is enjoyed without any alcohol presence. One can happily drink it during office hours, before driving or in the evening with family and friends.
9. Prost
Proost Beer is the latest high quality beer brand with a smooth and distinctive taste at an affordable price. The company sources its raw materials from international and local suppliers. It recently raised funding from angel investors in the popular show ‘Shark Tank India’.
Are you craving some beer now and then like us? If so, we suggest, wrap up all your work, grab a bottle and enjoy. But remember, always drink responsibly! And never drink and drive.