Have you ever wondered what types of beers are in the Philippines? As a country known for its tropical climate and vibrant culture, the Philippines has a thriving beer industry that offers a diverse range of flavors and styles to suit every taste. From crisp lagers to bold stouts, there’s no shortage of great beer to try in the Philippines.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best types of beers that the Philippines has to offer, highlighting their unique characteristics and what sets them apart from the rest. So, whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just looking to try something new, read on to know what to expect from the brewery in the country.
Beers in the Philippines have a long history, dating back to the Spanish colonial era when beer was introduced to the country. Today, the Philippine beer industry is thriving, with a wide variety of local and imported best beers in the Philippines.
The most popular style of beer in the Philippines is the light lager, which is refreshing and easy to drink in the country’s tropical climate. However, there are also many craft breweries popping up around the country, offering unique and flavorful beers that showcase local ingredients and flavors.
If you’re not familiar with the brewery scene in the country, here are the most common types of beers and their flavors.
1. Pale Lager
This is the most common type of beer in the Philippines, with a light and crisp taste. Examples include San Miguel Pale Pilsen, Red Horse Beer, and San Mig Light.
Pale lagers are known for their refreshing, crisp taste and light body, making them a perfect choice for those looking for a thirst-quenching beer. Here are some tips on how to best enjoy a pale lager:
- Serve it chilled: Pale lagers are best enjoyed when served cold. Keep them in the fridge for a few hours before serving to ensure that they are at their optimal temperature.
- Pair it with light meals: The light flavor of pale lagers makes them a great pairing for light meals such as salads, sandwiches, and seafood dishes.
- Enjoy it on a hot day: The refreshing taste of pale lagers makes them a perfect choice for a hot day, whether you’re at the beach or relaxing in your backyard.
- Experiment with different brands: While San Miguel Pale Pilsen and Red Horse Beer are popular choices in the Philippines, don’t be afraid to try different brands to find the one that suits your taste best.
- Use a glass: Drinking a pale lager straight from the bottle can limit your ability to fully appreciate its flavor and aroma. Pour it into a glass to fully enjoy its qualities.
2. Wheat Beer
Also known as “white beer,” this type of beer is made with wheat malt and has a cloudy appearance. Examples include Hoegaarden and Paulaner.
- Serve in a tall, narrow glass: A tall, narrow glass such as a weizen glass or a pilsner glass is the best choice for serving wheat beer. This allows the beer to showcase its cloudy appearance and allows the aromas to develop.
- Pair with light and fresh foods: Wheat beer pairs well with light and fresh foods such as salads, seafood, and grilled chicken. The crisp and citrusy flavors of the beer complement the lightness of the food.
- Serve chilled but not too cold: Wheat beer should be served chilled, but not too cold. Serving it too cold can numb the flavors and aromas. A temperature of around 45-50°F (7-10°C) is ideal.
- Add a slice of citrus: Adding a slice of citrus such as a lemon or an orange can enhance the flavors of wheat beer. The citrus adds a bright and refreshing note to the beer.
- Swirl the bottle before pouring: Wheat beer can have sediment at the bottom of the bottle due to the use of wheat malt. Swirling the bottle before pouring can distribute the sediment and help enhance the flavors.
3. Craft Beer
The craft beer scene in the Philippines is growing, with many local breweries offering unique and creative flavors. Examples include The Perfect Pint, Baguio Craft Brewery, and Engkanto Brewery.
Craft beer is a type of beer that is produced by small, independent breweries, and is characterized by its unique and creative flavors. Here are some tips on how to best enjoy craft beer:
- Try different varieties: One of the best things about craft beer is the variety of flavors available. Don’t be afraid to try something new! Start with a flight of beer samples to get a taste of different varieties and find the one you like best.
- Savor the aroma: Take a moment to smell the beer before you take a sip. The aroma can give you a clue about the beer’s flavor profile and enhance your overall enjoyment.
- Serve at the right temperature: Craft beers should be served at the recommended temperature to bring out their full flavor. Typically, lighter beers should be served colder while darker beers should be served at a slightly warmer temperature.
- Pair with food: Craft beer can be a great complement to food. Try pairing a hoppy IPA with spicy food or a fruity beer with a dessert.
- Support local breweries: The craft beer scene in the Philippines is growing, and there are many local breweries to support. Visit their taprooms, attend beer festivals, and purchase their products to help them grow.
4. Stout
Dark and rich in flavor, stouts are a popular choice among beer enthusiasts in the Philippines. Examples include San Miguel Super Dry, San Miguel Cerveza Negra, and Guinness.
If you are a fan of dark and flavorful beer, then stout is a great choice for you. Here are some tips on how to best enjoy this type of beer:
- Serve at the right temperature: Stouts are best enjoyed at around 8-12°C, which is slightly warmer than most beers. This allows the flavors to fully develop and be appreciated.
- Use the right glass: A tulip glass or snifter is best for stouts, as they allow the aromas to be released and the flavors to be concentrated.
- Pair with the right food: Stouts pair well with rich and bold flavors such as steak, barbecue, and chocolate desserts. The dark and roasted flavors of the stout complement these dishes perfectly.
- Take your time: Sipping and savoring a stout is the best way to fully appreciate its flavors. Allow the beer to warm up slightly as you drink it, and enjoy it slowly.
- Experiment with different stouts: There are many different types of stouts available, from sweet milk stouts to bold imperial stouts. Don’t be afraid to try different varieties to find your favorite.
5. Fruit Beer
Made with fruit flavors such as raspberry or mango, fruit beers are a refreshing option for those looking for a sweet and fruity taste. Examples include Brew Kettle’s Mango Beer and Bulacan Brewery’s Strawberry Beer.
If you’re looking to enjoy a fruit beer, here are some tips to enhance your drinking experience:
- Serve it chilled: Fruit beers are best served cold, as the low temperature can help accentuate the fruity notes and make it more refreshing.
- Pair it with food: Fruit beers can pair well with dishes that have sweet, fruity or spicy flavors. For example, a mango beer can complement a spicy Thai or Indian dish, while a strawberry beer can go well with a fruit salad or a light dessert.
- Experiment with different flavors: Fruit beers come in a wide variety of flavors, so it’s worth trying out a few different ones to see which ones you prefer. Some popular fruit beer flavors include raspberry, blueberry, cherry, and watermelon.
- Don’t expect it to taste like fruit juice: While fruit beers have a fruity taste, they still have the distinctive bitter taste of beer. So, don’t expect them to taste like fruit juice. Instead, think of them as a refreshing and unique twist on traditional beer.
- Enjoy it in a glass: To fully appreciate the fruity aromas and flavors of a fruit beer, it’s best to drink it from a glass. Pour it gently into a glass and observe the color and aroma before taking a sip.
What to Look for in the Best Beers in the Philippines
While this will ultimately boil down to one’s preferences, here are some key factors to consider when looking for the best beers in the Philippines:
Flavor
The flavor of a beer is one of the most important factors to consider. Do you prefer a light and crisp taste or a dark and rich flavor? Be sure to read the label and look for keywords that describe the beer’s taste.
In the Philippine beer market, the most popular beer flavor is pale lager, which has a light and crisp taste. This style of beer is easy to drink and is often consumed during social gatherings or paired with food.
However, with the growth of the craft beer industry in the Philippines, beer lovers now have a wider range of flavors to choose from. Local craft breweries offer unique and creative flavor combinations that cater to different taste preferences.
For those who prefer a dark and rich flavor, stouts and porters are a popular option. These beers have a strong roasted flavor and are often paired with desserts or enjoyed as a dessert on their own.
Wheat beers, also known as “white beers,” have a cloudy appearance and a refreshing taste. They are often infused with citrus or spice flavors and are a great option for those who prefer a lighter and fruitier taste.
India Pale Ales (IPAs) are also gaining popularity in the Philippine market. These beers are known for their strong hoppy flavor and bitterness, making them a popular choice for beer enthusiasts who enjoy bold flavors.
Aroma
The aroma of a beer can also influence its overall taste. Look for beers with a pleasant and inviting aroma that complements the flavor.
Aroma is an important factor that beer enthusiasts consider when choosing their favorite brews. The aroma of a beer can make or break the overall drinking experience, as it can either enhance or detract from the beer’s flavor.
The aroma of a beer is influenced by various factors such as the type of hops used, the yeast strain, and the brewing process. Beers with a strong hop aroma, for example, can have a floral, fruity, or piney scent, depending on the variety of hops used. On the other hand, beers brewed with specialty malts can have a sweet, caramel-like aroma.
In the Philippine beer market, aroma is often used to distinguish between different beer styles. For example, wheat beers are known for their citrusy and spicy aromas, while stouts are characterized by their roasted coffee and chocolate notes.
Beer enthusiasts in the Philippines also pay attention to the intensity and complexity of the aroma. The aroma should be pleasant and inviting, but not overpowering. Additionally, some beers have a more complex aroma that develops over time as the beer warms up, making the drinking experience more enjoyable.
When choosing a beer based on aroma, it’s important to consider personal preferences. Some beer drinkers prefer beers with a strong and bold aroma, while others prefer a more subtle and understated aroma. Experimenting with different beer styles can help you discover which aromas you prefer and which complement your palate.
Alcohol content
The alcohol content of a beer can vary widely, so it’s important to know your limits and choose the best beers in the Philippines accordingly. Be sure to check the label for the alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage before purchasing.
In the Philippines, the alcohol content of beer is measured in Alcohol by Volume (ABV) percentage. The ABV percentage refers to the amount of alcohol in a beer relative to its total volume. The standard ABV percentage for beer in the Philippines is 5%, but some beers can have a higher or lower ABV percentage depending on the style and brand.
When it comes to alcohol content, it’s important to know your limits and drink responsibly. The legal drinking age in the Philippines is 18 years old, and it’s important to adhere to this rule to avoid legal troubles. Drinking too much alcohol can lead to impaired judgment, blackouts, and other health problems, so it’s important to drink in moderation.
For those who prefer beers with a higher alcohol content, there are several options available in the Philippines. Some popular high-alcohol beers include San Miguel Super Dry (10%), Red Horse Beer (6.9%), and Colt 45 (7.2%). These beers are often referred to as “strong beers” or “extra-strong beers” and are popular among beer enthusiasts who enjoy a more intense drinking experience.
On the other hand, for those who prefer beers with a lower alcohol content, there are also several options available. Light beers, such as San Mig Light (3.5%) and San Miguel Super Light (2.2%), are low-alcohol beers that are popular among those who want to enjoy a refreshing drink without getting too drunk.
Brand reputation
Consider the reputation of the brand when looking for the best beers in the Philippines. Some brands have a long history and are known for producing high-quality and consistent beers.
Brand reputation is an important factor to consider when looking for the best beers in the Philippines. With a rich history in brewing, the Philippines has several established beer brands that have become household names.
San Miguel Brewery, for instance, is one of the oldest and most popular beer brands in the Philippines, dating back to 1890. Its flagship beer, San Miguel Pale Pilsen, is a pale lager that has been enjoyed by generations of Filipinos. The company has also introduced several new beers in recent years, including craft beers such as the San Miguel Super Dry and San Miguel Cerveza Negra.
Other established beer brands in the Philippines include Red Horse Beer, which is known for its high alcohol content and strong taste, and Colt 45, which is popular among young adults for its affordable price and easy-drinking flavor.
These brands have built a reputation for producing high-quality and consistent beers that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Aside from established brands, the craft beer scene in the Philippines is also growing, with several new breweries entering the market.
These breweries are known for producing unique and innovative beers that cater to a niche market. Some notable craft beer brands in the Philippines include The Perfect Pint, Baguio Craft Brewery, and Engkanto Brewery.
When considering brand reputation, it’s important to keep in mind that while established brands may have a proven track record of quality, they may not necessarily cater to every beer drinker’s preferences.
On the other hand, new and emerging craft beer brands may offer more unique and niche flavors but may not have the same level of consistency and quality as established brands.
Price
The price of a beer can also be a deciding factor for many. Some beers can be quite expensive, so consider your budget before making a purchase.
In the Philippines, the price of beer can vary depending on several factors. Domestic beers, such as San Miguel Pale Pilsen and Red Horse Beer, are generally more affordable compared to imported brands. A 330ml bottle of San Miguel Pale Pilsen, for example, can cost around PHP 33, while a 500ml can of Red Horse Beer can cost around PHP 60.
Craft beers, on the other hand, tend to be more expensive due to their limited production and unique flavors. A 330ml bottle of The Perfect Pint’s Hefeweizen, for example, can cost around PHP 170, while a 500ml bottle of Engkanto Brewery’s Blonde Ale can cost around PHP 180.
Beer prices can also vary depending on the establishment where it is sold. Beers sold in bars and restaurants tend to be more expensive compared to those sold in convenience stores or supermarkets. Additionally, beer prices can also vary depending on the region or city in the Philippines.
To save money on beer purchases, it’s best to compare prices and take advantage of promotions or discounts. Some establishments offer happy hour deals or special discounts for bulk purchases. It’s also worth considering the cost of transportation if purchasing beer from different locations, as this can add to the overall cost.
Style
The style of a beer can also be a factor to consider. Do you prefer pale lagers, stouts, IPAs, or wheat beers? Different styles have distinct characteristics, so be sure to explore different styles to find your favorite.
- Pale Lager: Pale lagers are a popular choice in the Philippines and are known for their light, crisp taste. They’re a great option for casual drinking, as they’re easy to drink and pair well with many types of food. Recommended brands include San Miguel Pale Pilsen and Red Horse Beer.
- Wheat Beer: If you’re looking for a beer with a distinct flavor, try a wheat beer. They’re made with wheat malt and have a cloudy appearance. They’re a great option for warm weather and pair well with seafood and salads. Recommended brands include Paulaner and Hoegaarden.
- Stout: Dark and rich in flavor, stouts are a popular choice among beer enthusiasts. They pair well with chocolate and desserts and are perfect for colder weather. Recommended brands include San Miguel Super Dry and San Miguel Cerveza Negra.
- IPA: For those who prefer a hoppy and bitter taste, IPAs are a great option. They pair well with spicy foods and are a popular choice for beer enthusiasts. Recommended brands include Nipa Brew’s Sun Stoked IPA and Katipunan Craft Ales’ Indio Pale Ale.
- Craft Beer: The craft beer scene in the Philippines is growing, and there are many local breweries offering unique and creative flavors. They’re a great option for those looking to try something new and different. Recommended brands include The Perfect Pint and Engkanto Brewery.
- Non-alcoholic Beer: If you’re looking for a healthier option, non-alcoholic beers are a great choice. They have a lower calorie count and can still provide the taste and experience of beer without the alcohol. Recommended brands include San Miguel Zero and Heineken 0.0.
Availability
Some beers may only be available in certain areas or during certain seasons, so be sure to check if the beer you want is readily available.
The Philippine beer market is dominated by two major players – San Miguel Corporation and Asia Brewery – and they control a significant portion of the beer distribution network in the country.
While these two companies offer a wide range of beer products, there are also several local and international brands available in the market. However, the availability of these brands may vary depending on the region or city. For example, some craft beer brands may only be available in Metro Manila or certain areas in Luzon, while some regional brands may only be available in certain parts of the Visayas or Mindanao regions.
Availability can also be affected by seasonality, particularly during the Christmas season, where demand for beer usually spikes due to the numerous celebrations and parties. This can lead to certain beers being sold out quickly or becoming harder to find during this time.
Another factor to consider is the availability of imported beers. While some international brands are readily available in the market, others may not be distributed as widely. This can also affect the price point of the beer, as imported beers tend to be more expensive due to taxes and import duties.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are some popular beer brands in the Philippines?
Some of the most popular beer brands in the Philippines are San Miguel, Red Horse, Pale Pilsen, and San Mig Light.
2. Are there any local craft beers in the Philippines?
Yes, there are several local craft beer breweries in the Philippines, including The Cebruery, Baguio Craft Brewery, and Katipunan Craft Ales.
3. What is the alcohol content of Filipino beer?
The alcohol content of Filipino beer varies by brand, but it typically ranges from 5% to 8%.
4. What is the best beer to pair with Filipino food?
Pale Pilsen and San Miguel are popular choices to pair with traditional Filipino dishes like adobo and sisig.
5. Can you buy Filipino beer outside of the Philippines?
Yes, some Filipino beer brands are exported to other countries, but availability may vary.
6. Is San Miguel a Filipino beer brand?
Yes, San Miguel is a popular beer brand that originated in the Philippines.
7. What is the difference between Pale Pilsen and San Miguel?
Pale Pilsen is a lighter and crisper beer, while San Miguel has a stronger flavor and higher alcohol content.
8. What is the most popular beer style in the Philippines?
Lager is the most popular beer style in the Philippines, with brands like San Miguel and Red Horse dominating the market.
Final Thoughts
The Philippines has a rich beer culture that is deeply ingrained in its society. The country’s warm climate and lively festivals provide the perfect backdrop for enjoying a cold beer with friends and family. With popular brands like San Miguel and Red Horse, as well as emerging craft breweries, the Philippine beer industry is constantly evolving and offering new and exciting options for beer lovers.
So, whether you prefer a light and refreshing beer or a bold and complex brew, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the world of Filipino beer. Cheers to discovering and savoring the kinds of beers the Philippines has to offer!
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