Who doesn’t want to have a pint of Guinness in an old Irish Pub or enjoy a beer at Octoberfest in Germany? There are several other countries that are hot spots for beer lovers as well. Damon’s Getaways’ has compiled the top countries for beer connoisseurs, according to The Best Places to Travel and Thrillist and several other beer lover’s sites.
Belgium
Belgium ranks high on several lists we researched. In Belgium drinking beer is a ritual and each kind of beer including lambic, saison, dubbel, or witbier has a special glass in which to enjoy the brew. The country has much to offer in the way of museums, castles, and other attractions. However, touring around the rural areas and visiting local breweries is a must. If you don’t have a lot of time, you can still enjoy a cold brew in any pub as good beers are to be found across Belgium. And there is an overwhelming variety of beers to choose from and why Belgium is one of the best countries for beer lovers.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic also rated high on several lists as it has the world’s highest consumption of beer per capita. An average Czech person drinks over 142.6 liters per year. It’s not only about quantity, though, but quality as well. The beer is excellent, and it makes an important part of the Czechs’ culture. The history of their drinking habits dates to the 10th century when the Břevnov Monastery was brewing first original beers. Today there are many theme festivals held in the country, such as the Pilsner Fest in Pilsen or Czech Beer Festival in Prague.
United States
You really don’t have to travel far to enjoy a good brew because the US has over 3,000 breweries. Pale lagers are most popular in the US, perhaps because US citizens consume over 26.5 gallons per person of beer yearly. However, if you’re searching for a stronger brew, America also has many small breweries. The US has thousands of microbreweries and brewpubs, so look for them when you travel through the States. There are 1.5 breweries opening daily across the US. So, enjoy the chance to taste some difference brews and experience the growing American beer culture.
Germany
The largest beer fest in the world, Oktoberfest is on each beer lover’s bucket list! It’s annually held in Munich from late September till October lasting for 17-18 day. Millions of tourists gather to enjoy the beer, food and music. Nearly, 7 million liters of beer are drunk during the festival. If you cannot attend during the festival season, make sure to at least try some of Germany’s world-known brews, such as Oettinger, Bitburger or Paulaner. Germany ranks in the top five countries in the world for volume of beer production and ranks number three for beer consumption per capita. The Reinheitsgebot the German Beer Purity Law has kept many breweries’ recipes the same for centuries. Mainstays like Ayinger still provide beers that are considered gold standards for their styles, and historic breweries, like Riegele, who exemplify popular domestic styles, keep local specialties alive despite lack of interest outside the country.
United Kingdom
Jolly ole England is famous for its pub life. Not only traditional ales and lagers but craft beer in the UK is exploding: slow-but-steady changes in legislation have led to the highest number of breweries in the country since World War II, and advances in technology and investment in the industry are revitalizing everything from kegging practices to hop production. The UK now boasts the highest number of breweries in the world per capita, and innovative breweries such as the Wild Beer Co., the Kernel, Beavertown, and Harviestoun have begun to draw younger drinkers away from the pale lagers that have dominated pubs’ draft lines for decades. Along with Belgium and Germany, the UK is amongst the historical core of style creation that acts as a pillar for modern beer-making.
Denmark
While Denmark’s beer styles haven’t been as popular outside its borders as powerhouses like Belgium’s or Germany’s, they have a solid lineup of traditional seasonal specialties. Its most popular craft beer brewery is Mikkeller, whose very presence has done plenty to elevate Denmark in the eyes of the international community. Along with other popular small breweries, it’s common to see Denmark represented on bottle and draft lists in the best beer bars around the world and on top beer-rating lists.
Ireland
There is nothing like drinking beer in a traditional Irish Pub listening to Irish music. The country ranks sixth in beer consumption per capita. In recent years, there has been a brewery explosion development in Ireland. Less than a decade ago, just five breweries controlled the market, but today that number is at 50. Newcomers like the White Hag, Galway Bay Brewery, and Trouble Brewing are forging a trail for critically adored craft beer in the Emerald Isle. In 2013, the government went a step further by enacting new laws that create incentives and offer education for aspiring brewers, which pretty much ensures that the growth trend will continue. So, whether you want to try a traditional lager or a new craft brew, Ireland has it all!
The Netherlands
Who hasn’t heard of Heineken and Amstel beer? The Netherlands put those beers on the map. Holland known for its tulip harvest is also home to two of the world’s 10 designated Trappist breweries. It’s home to a thriving beer culture with world-class bars and taprooms around the country. Microbreweries Brouwerij Emelisse and Brouwerij de Molen are the most critically acclaimed in Holland these days, and are routinely included in top global beer lists.
New Zealand
New Zealand’s agricultural good fortune has helped make them one of the most quickly ascendant brewing countries in the world. Already known for barley production, their citrusy indigenous hops varieties now play a huge part in their ability to compete with some of the most popular — and, in an increasing number of cases, best — hop-driven American brews on the market. Internationally adored Kiwi microbreweries include Yeastie Boys, 8 Wired, Liberty Brewing, Tuatara Brewery, and Moa Brewing have exploded in popularity for all styles of beer from saisons to stouts.
Australia
British people introduced beer to the land of Australia when they colonized it. And shrimp on Barbie wouldn’t be the same without a cold beer to accompany the traditional dish of the land down under. The oldest brewery in Australia opened in 1824. However, in less than 100 years, Australians have managed to compete worldwide in the beer culture. They produce some interesting specialty brews, as well as traditional kinds of beers. Beer beats wine and other spirits and is the most prevalent alcohol. No wonder, in hot Australian weather nothing can be better than a bottle of cold lager.
Whether you are a beer lover or lover of traveling, Damon’s Getaways can plan your next trip so you can enjoy all the country or destination has to offer. Call us today to book your air, cruise, hotel or tour! We are a full-service agency!