The Lesser-Known Indian Beers That You Must Try In 2021 To Make It A ‘Beery’ Good Year For You!

Scoring high on flavour and composition but low on popularity, these Indian brews are as good as your regular ones and should definitely be given a ‘shot’ this year!

There are so many beer brands in India that are hidden under the veneer of famous, mainstream ones. And since we have just commenced with 2021, we thought of familiarising you with a few lesser-known beers that taste refreshing and can be the perfect beverages to celebrate all your occasions or moods this year!

1. Godfather

Godfather is a beer brand of Devans Modern Breweries Limited which was established back in 1961 in Jammu. While most beers are brewed for about 12 to 15 days, its brewing cycle completes in 25 days, which gives it a rejuvenating flavour and appeal. This lesser-known brand is available in three variants - Strong (7.5% ABV), Lager (5% ABV), and Lite (4.5% ABV), any of which will make your #BeerDiaries more interesting than ever!

2. Kati Patang

Brewed in the Himalayan spring water, Kati Patang garners much love for its medium caramel flavour blended with citrus notes. Apt for those on the lookout for flavour than froth in their beers, this darkish ale complements the brand name which highlights unfettered freedom and unbound creativity. Use of natural ingredients and good quality notes truly make it one-of-its-kind beers to chug down in 2021!

3.  Maka Di

Meaning “give me” in Konkani, this beer will give you the quintessential Goa feels with its quirky appeal and flavour. A sub-brand of Latambarcem Brewers based in Goa, it has 5 variants on offer - Maka Di Honey Ale, Belgian Tripel, American Lager, The Bavarian Keller, and Belgian Wheat-Blanche, each one of which should definitely be on your wishlist!

4. Simba

Simba is truly the ‘king’ of the beer world! The quirk begins right from its label and logo and ends up with the flavour and mouth-feel it offers, lifting up your spirits like nothing else could ever! Among all its invigorating variants, its Wit grabs a major chunk of the spotlight and we’re guessing that it is the hint of orange peel, lemongrass, and coriander that does the talking! 

5. Khajuraho

Khajuraho is an amazing Indian beer that is available in two variants - Super Strong (8.5-9%) and Lite (4.5%). Launched back in 1969, this pale golden beverage has a sweetish flavour and touts itself as India’s first super strong beer!

6. Haywards 5000

Haywards 5000 is a lager beer type that comprises less than 7.5% ABV. This golden yellow beverage is commonly consumed in Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh and is sold at different prices. You’ll love its full-bodied malty flavour which is the result of the amalgamation of good quality Indian malts and six-row barley. In addition to this, this beer also consists of both German hop extracts (CO2) and Indian hops that make it all the more flavoursome!

7. Kalyani Black Label 

Kalyani Black Label was established back in 1969 in West Bengal and happens to be among the most iconic Indian lagers in the realm of beers! It’s available in both strong and mild varieties, making it a famous beer in Delhi and eastern India. With an ABV of 7.8%, it offers a fresh and sweet taste and is smooth and mellowed in appeal.

8. UB Export

You may call it a famous beer brand but it hasn’t been able to garner the attention it deserves lately. Produced by the same parent company that also offers Kingfisher, UB Export by United Breweries comprises an ABV of 5% and offers a mildly sweet flavour on the palate. It is available in two variants - premium and strong, both of which won’t burn a hole in your pocket. So for the times when you’re broke but want to indulge in a delicious beer experience, grab any variant of UB Export without second thoughts.