The Craft Beer Scene Around the World: Our Favorite Spots

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The Craft Beer Scene Around the World

Craft beer is growing rapidly around the world. Breweries from the U.S. to Europe, Asia and more are popping up. This rise of craft beer has opened up opportunities to explore a variety of flavors and brewing processes. Here are some of our favorite places around the world and their craft beer specialties.

The Rise of Craft Beer Culture Globally

Recently, craft beer culture has grown in fame globally. Breweries, bars and festivals have appeared in various countries. Here's a look at some of the top craft beer scenes:

US: There are about 8,000 breweries here, with popular ones like Sierra Nevada and Dogfish Head leading the way.
UK: Traditional styles like pale ale and stout are still prominent, plus modern craft breweries like BrewDog and Cloudwater.
Belgium: Home to some of the oldest and most renowned breweries, with classic styles like lambic and saison, plus well-known brands like Duvel and Cantillon.
Australia: Craft beer scene has taken off, with local breweries such as BrewCult and Pirate Life Brewing gaining international appreciation for their flavorsome beers.

Tip: When travelling, try to find local craft breweries and bars to experience the region's beer culture.

Top Craft Beer Countries and Regions

Craft beer is becoming famous everywhere, and some countries and regions are leading with their one-of-a-kind brews and creative techniques. Here are the top craft beer countries you should know about:

United States: 8,000+ craft breweries make it the biggest craft beer market on the planet. American craft beer is known for its intense flavors, experimenting and using locally-sourced ingredients.
Belgium: With over 1,500 diverse brews and Trappist beers made by monks, it's no surprise Belgium has a long-standing beer culture. Belgian craft beers are usually categorized by their yeast and renowned for their complex flavors and aromas.
Germany: Famous for its beer, German craft beer follows the Reinheitsgebot purity law and is known for its crisp and clean taste.
Australia and New Zealand: Many independent breweries are sprouting in these countries, which are known for their hop-forward beers and experimenting with unique ingredients.
South America: With growing craft breweries, South America's beer scene is receiving global recognition. Brazil, Chile, and Argentina are popular, offering unique flavors and styles influenced by the region's various cultures.

Pro tip- Try a small sample or a sampler flight before committing to a full pour of a new craft beer!

Unique Qualities and Concepts in Global Craft Beer Culture

Craft beer culture is growing all around the world, and each country has something special that makes it stand out. Here are some examples:

Germany: With the Reinheitsgebot, or purity laws, German craft beer has traditional ingredients like barley, hops, and water. Plus, many German brewers put focus on sustainability.
Belgium: Belgian beer is all about fruity and spicy flavors from yeast strains and herbs. Plus, many brewers specialize in farmhouse-style ales.
USA: American craft beers are known for their creativity and experimentation. Coffee, chocolate, and spices are used to make bold and complex flavors. Plus, US craft breweries are great for community engagement.
Australia: Aussies are big on hoppy flavors, especially IPAs and pale ales. Plus, many Australian brewers prioritize sustainability with local ingredients.
Japan: Japanese beers have subtle, delicate flavor profiles with rice and other traditional Japanese ingredients. Many Japanese breweries also create a unique cultural experience with traditional architecture and art.

These qualities and concepts make craft beer around the world so exciting and diverse. Beer lovers can enjoy a variety of flavors and experiences!

Our Favorite Craft Beer Spots Around the World

Craft beer is getting more popular! Breweries are springing up all around the globe – Europe, Asia, the Americas. In this article, we'll check out some of our favorite craft beer spots. Established ones and hidden gems – let's discover the craft beer scene worldwide!

United States: Portland, Oregon

Portland, Oregon is a mecca for craft beer! There's a wide range of breweries and bars waiting to serve up unique and flavorful brews. Here are some of the best places to try craft beer in Portland:

Deschutes Brewery. They offer hoppy IPAs and barrel-aged beers.
Hair of the Dog Brewing Company. This is a great spot for Belgian-style beers and strong ales, like their famous Adam beer.
Cascade Brewing. If you're into sour beer, this is the place for you. They have barrel-aged sours and fruit-infused ales.
Belmont Station. Not a brewery, but a renowned beer bar with over 1,200 bottled beers and 30 rotating taps.
Great Notion Brewing. They have juicy, hazy IPAs and fruit-forward sour beers.

No matter which spot you pick, make sure to sample some of Portland's famous brews and explore the city's craft beer scene!

Breweries to Visit in Portland, Oregon

Portland, Oregon is a haven for craft beer fanatics! There are many breweries to explore. Here are some of the top picks:

Deschutes Brewery – Offering a range of beers, the Mirror Pond Pale Ale is their signature. Plus, a great outdoor patio and pub food menu.
Cascade Brewing Barrel House – Love sour beers? This brewery has barrel-aged beer options for a special tasting experience.
Hair of the Dog Brewing Company – Bold flavors await you here, with their “Adam” beer a fan favorite.
Breakside Brewery – Try their rotating tap list and experimental brews. With multiple locations in Portland, they have an extensive beer menu.
Ecliptic Brewing – A variety of beer styles await, plus a spacious outdoor seating area with a view of the city.

Belgium: Bruges

Belgium – and in particular, Bruges – is a must-see for craft beer lovers! The city has a vibrant craft beer scene with a few top spots to check out. ‘T Brugs Beertje‘ – a cosy pub – should be visited. It has over 300 Belgian beers and every month, a different one is showcased. De Halve Maan Brewery, in the city's centre, is renowned for Brugse Zot and Straffe Hendrik. Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery allows visitors to get up close to the brewing process, whilst enjoying food and beer.

Pro Tip: Don't forget to savour Trappist beers – brewed by monks in real monasteries!

The Best Places for Craft Beer in Bruges

Explore Bruges, the charming Belgian city famous for its chocolate, architecture and most of all beer. If you're looking for the best places to have a craft beer in Bruges, try these:

‘T Brugs Beertje boasts an incredible collection of over 300 Belgian beers. The dimly-lit pub has a cozy atmosphere and is the ideal hangout spot.
Brouwerij De Halve Maan is one of the oldest breweries in Bruges. Take a tour and sample their world-renowned Brugse Zot.
At ‘t Poatersgat, you'll find a 16th-century cellar and a menu of local and international craft beers. Plus, you can pair your pint with cheeses and meats.

Pro tip: Don't miss out on the Trappist beers that monks brew in nearby abbeys.

Germany: Berlin

Berlin, Germany is a paradise for craft beer lovers! There are plenty of bars and breweries to choose from. Here are our top picks:

BRLO – they make delicious beers on-site, plus an amazing beer garden.
Kaschk – chill vibes and a great selection of local and international craft beers.
Vagabund Brauerei – their ever-changing brews come in small batches. Some wild flavor combos!
Hops & Barley – this traditional Berlin brewery has been around since 2008.
Berliner Berg – try their “Sunny Side Ale”. Plus, explore their brewing process with a tour or tasting!

The Best Craft Beer Bars and Breweries in Berlin

Are you a tourist in Berlin searching for the best craft beer bars and breweries? Here are the top places you mustn't miss!

Kaschk: 24 taps, great beer, speciality coffee, and food. Quality and taste at its finest!
Muted Horn: 40 beers on tap, both Berlin craft beers and international microbrews. A pleasant atmosphere and delicious beer make it well-loved by locals and tourists.
BrewDog Berlin Mitte: Cool brand, fantastic microbrew selection.
BRLO Brwhouse: Award-winning brewery, witness the brewing process up close.
Hops & Barley: Friedrichshain classic pub, producing quality beer on-sight, cozy ambiance for relaxing.

Berlin has a vibrant craft beer scene, many unique spots to discover – these were just a few tips for your trip.

Pro tip: Research before going anywhere, many breweries have outdoor seating with fire pits and food trucks – a must-experience to finish your trip.

Japan: Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan is a must-visit for craft beer lovers! It has a vibrant, diverse craft beer scene.

Here are some of our top picks:

Craft Beer Market – 30+ beers on tap, with both local Japanese and international craft beers.
Watering Hole – Cozy bar in Yoyogi, with rotating selection of craft beers on tap and in bottles.
DevilCraft – Famous for Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. They offer a wide range of craft beers on tap from domestic and international breweries.
Goodbeer Faucets – Shibuya bar with 40+ beers on tap, plus lots of local Japanese craft beers.
Hitachino Brewing Lab – Brewery and taproom in Akihabara. Sample a variety of Hitachino Nest beers, including experimental brews.

Craft beer aficionados and beginners alike, Tokyo should be on your ‘must-visit' list!

Tokyo's Best Craft Beer Pubs and Breweries

Are you a craft beer lover visiting Tokyo? Don't miss these top pubs and breweries:

Hitachino Brewing Lab – Brews a unique blend of traditional Japanese and contemporary flavors.
Tap Stand – Offers twenty taps with Japanese and imported beers. Plus, small plates of snacks!
Popeye – Over 70 taps and 10 rotating cask beers. Plus, international brews.
Baird Beer Taproom – Located in Harajuku. Offers Japanese-inspired craft beers and seasonal brews.
DevilCraft Hamamatsucho – Local and imported beers. Plus, Chicago-style deep-dish pizzas. Pro Tip: Try their signature Devil's Margarita!

Brazil: São Paulo

São Paulo, Brazil is a paradise for craft beer fanatics. It has a lively craft beer scene, with many amazing craft beer spots. Here are a few of our top picks:

Cervejaria Nacional: This brewery offers rotating beers. Plus, they have scrumptious pub food and a comfy ambience.
BrewDog São Paulo: Part of the global BrewDog chain, the spot offers their signature brews, as well as guest taps and pub grub.
Empório Alto dos Pinheiros: This bar and bottle shop has a fantastic selection of international and local beers. Plus, it has a rooftop terrace and delectable food.
2Cabeças Tap Room: This taproom is a union of Brazilian brewery 2Cabeças and American brewery Firestone Walker. It serves beer from both breweries, plus tasty snacks.

These are just some of the must-visit craft beer spots in São Paulo. They offer an assortment of beers and an enjoyable atmosphere for beer lovers.

São Paulo's Must-Visit Craft Beer Destinations

São Paulo is a craft beer paradise! Here are some of the must-visit spots for beer lovers.

Cervejaria Nacional: This brewery has a wide range of beers – from pale ales to stouts. Plus, you can watch the brewing process while you sip on a pint in the taproom.
Empório Alto dos Pinheiros: This bar has over 800 bottled beers from around the world and 30 rotating taps of craft beer. Plus, they serve yummy pub food!
Brewdog: This Scottish brewery has several locations, including São Paulo. Try Brewdog's own beers and guest taps from local Brazilian breweries.
Dogma: This microbrewery creates experimental beers with unique flavor combinations. Stop by to try their latest creations.

Pro tip: Don't forget to sample the Brazilian style of beer – “Chopp”. It's creamy and light – perfect for São Paulo's hot weather!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the craft beer scene?

A: The craft beer scene refers to the community of craft beer enthusiasts who are dedicated to discovering and enjoying locally-produced, artisanal beers made by small, independent breweries.

Q: What are some of the best craft beer spots around the world?

A: Some of the best craft beer spots include the United States with cities like San Diego and Portland, Germany with cities like Berlin and Munich, Belgium with cities like Brussels and Ghent, and South Africa with cities like Cape Town and Durban.

Q: What types of beer can I expect to find in the craft beer scene?

A: You can expect to find a wide range of beer styles, from traditional beers like pale ales and stouts to more experimental brews like sour beers and barrel-aged beers.

Q: What makes craft beer different from commercial beer?

A: Craft beer is different from commercial beer in that it is typically produced in small batches by independent breweries using high-quality, often locally-sourced ingredients. Craft beer also tends to be more flavorful and complex than commercial beer.

Q: How can I find craft beer spots in my area?

A: You can easily find craft beer spots in your area by using online resources like craft beer directories and mobile apps, or by asking for recommendations from local beer enthusiasts.

Q: What should I expect when visiting a craft beer spot?

A: When visiting a craft beer spot, you can expect to find a wide selection of beers on tap or in bottles, knowledgeable staff who can help you make a selection, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.