As an aficionado of the finer things in life, particularly when it comes to the craft of brewing, I’ve had the privilege of savoring some of the most exquisite craft beers the world has to offer. The craft beer movement has brought to the forefront the artistry, tradition, and innovation embedded in beer brewing. From the bustling streets of Bangalore, where I’m based, to the far reaches of the globe, the diversity in craft beer is as rich and varied as the cultures they hail from. Allow me to guide you through a curated list of 10 must-try craft beers from around the globe, each a testament to the craft and a journey worth embarking upon.

1. Westvleteren XII (Belgium)

No list of craft beers would be complete without mentioning the elusive Westvleteren XII, often hailed as one of the best beers in the world. Brewed by Trappist monks in Belgium, its complex flavors of dark fruit, caramel, and bread are a divine experience.

2. The Alchemist Heady Topper (USA)

Hailing from Vermont, Heady Topper is a double IPA that has garnered a cult following. Its intense hop character and nuanced layers of citrus and pine make it a standout in the American craft beer scene.

3. Cantillon Rosé de Gambrinus (Belgium)

Cantillon, a renowned lambic brewery in Brussels, offers this exquisite raspberry lambic. The Rosé de Gambrinus is a beautiful blend of tartness, sweetness, and funk, embodying the art of traditional Belgian brewing.

4. Stone & Wood Pacific Ale (Australia)

From the shores of Byron Bay comes this refreshing ale, bursting with tropical fruit aromas. Stone & Wood Pacific Ale is a testament to Australian brewing, offering a crisp and flavorful experience.

5. BrewDog Punk IPA (Scotland)

Punk IPA is the flagship beer of BrewDog, a brewery at the forefront of the craft beer movement in the UK. It’s a bold, hop-forward IPA that balances tropical fruits with a caramel malt backbone.

6. Mikkeller Beer Geek Breakfast (Denmark)

This oatmeal stout infused with coffee is a masterpiece from Danish brewery Mikkeller. Beer Geek Breakfast is a rich and complex beer, perfect for those who appreciate the darker side of craft brewing.

7. Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA (USA)

From the innovative Dogfish Head brewery in Delaware, the 90 Minute IPA is a beautifully balanced Imperial IPA. It’s continuously hopped, providing a complex interplay of malt sweetness and hop bitterness.

8. Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier (Germany)

Brewed by the world’s oldest brewery, this classic Bavarian wheat beer is a must-try. Its notes of banana, clove, and bubblegum are quintessential to the style, offering a smooth and refreshing drink.

9. Suntory The Premium Malt’s (Japan)

Suntory’s foray into craft beer with The Premium Malt’s offers a delicate and sophisticated Pilsner. It’s a showcase of Japanese precision and quality, with a floral hop aroma and clean finish.

10. Garage Project Pernicious Weed (New Zealand)

From Wellington’s innovative Garage Project brewery, Pernicious Weed is a hop lover’s dream. It’s a double IPA that combines New Zealand hops for a punchy, aromatic, and distinctly Kiwi take on the style.

Each of these craft beers tells a story of its origins, the vision of its brewers, and the communities that have embraced them. Whether you’re an enthusiast or a casual drinker, exploring these beers offers an insightful journey into the heart of the craft beer culture. From my vantage point in Bangalore, a city that has warmly embraced craft beer, I invite you to broaden your horizons and indulge in the diverse and rich flavors these global brews have to offer.

Cheers,

SVS