On International Beer Day today, we reached out to a dozen watering holes and microbreweries in the city to find out what the Mumbaikar’s choice of beer is
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It is the drink of gods, as the Vikings would put it. The Germans would agree. From our latest survey, the Indians are not far behind either. Since 2007, beer has been celebrated across the world through International Beer Day on the first Friday of every August. In recent years, Mumbai has seen the rise of microbreweries, triggering a new shift in taste among Mumbaikars. With access to microbreweries across the city and indigenously-brewed craft beers, a new generation is exploring everything from Belgian ales to lagers and stouts. But what is it that is truly a crowd favourite? Read on to find the winner.
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The golden grain wins
Wheat beers like the Belgian witbier and Hefeweizen were unanimous choices
The undoubtable winner is the wheat beer. Belgian witbiers and hefeweizen lead the race at breweries across the city, with over 10 respondents naming them as a crowd-favourite. Many attributed the popularity to the sweetness of the beer, and familiarity of the wheat-based flavour to the Indian palate. The beverage is also an easy economical choice for breweries since it travels better. The German rauchbier is also finding space among younger patrons.
Familiar lager tale
To anyone familiar with beer drinking in India, the lager will be a comfortable transition. Naturally, it remains the second most popular choice. Although several respondents suggested that it is a choice for the conservative and regular beer drinker, there are a number of variations available. The rice lager, for instance, is gaining prominence among lovers of seafood — a large customer-base in Mumbai.
A foreign taste
The lowest on the rung are porters and stouts. While a popular choice overseas, the Indian palate is yet to grow accustomed to the dark, strong taste of these brews. By consensus, it is the most popular choice among travellers and visitors passing through the city, or individuals with a taste for a stronger sip.
Experimental choice
While it is still a minority, the India Pale Ale (IPA) is the hipster’s choice. Their bitter flavour profile makes them an acquired taste. Respondents shared that the brew is the choice for experimental or educated beer connoisseurs with an aware and exposed palate. Among these, IPAs with fruity and citrusy aftertastes remain a popular choice.
Expert speak
>> The biggest reason for the popularity of wheat beer is the palate. The Indian palate is familiar with the wheat-base and hints of coriander and orange that goes with it.
>> Lagers are the safer choice. Most commercial draughts are lagers, and are chosen for their familiarity. Beer enthusiasts often start with lagers before graduating to other variations.
>> IPAs are an acquired taste. You need to have an evolved palate for it. The same applies for rice lagers too.
>> One must account for logistics as well. IPAs and rice lagers do not travel well, which makes storage difficult. Naturally, the market leans towards wheat beers
and hefeweizens.
Gagan Sharma, sommelier, director, Indulge India
Youth-y fruity
Beers aside, ciders are increasingly popular among the younger demographic. Respondents cited the rise of a number of fruit-flavoured ciders — Alphonso, apple, berry — in the market as an example. The sweet, fruity aftertaste of the ciders makes them a preferable entry point to craft beers for many. It is also a choice for many women, who prefer an alternative
to cocktails.
Sip on the fun
>> Beer, records and a quiz
On: Today; 4 pm onwards
At: Hapi Beer & Co. ONGC Colony, Bandra West.
Log on to: @therevolverclub
>> Beer and burger festival
Till: August 11; 9 pm onwards
At: Woodside Inn, Link Plaza Commercial Complex, Andheri West
Call: 26328963
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