Top 13 Popular Beer Brands in India: A Comprehensive Guide

Beer, one of the most widely consumed alcoholic beverages in India, plays a significant role in menus and beverage programs across hotels and restaurants.

In this post, we delve into the top beer brands in India that every hospitality professional should be familiar with. Whether you’re curating a menu or advising guests, knowing these top beer brands in India will equip you with the knowledge to meet diverse preferences and enhance your beer serving.

List of 13 Popular Beer Brands in India

1. Kingfisher
2. Bira 91
3. Royal Challenge
4. Simba
5. Godfather
6. Budweiser India
7. Hoegaarden India
8. Carlsberg India
9. Haywards
10. Knock Out
11. Kati Patang
12. White Owl
13. Tiger India Beer

In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top 13 popular beer brands in India, detailing their histories, variants, ABV (Alcohol by Volume), and more.

For an overview of beer culture in India, visit Wikipedia’s Beer in India page

1. Kingfisher

Kingfisher is arguably the most recognizable beer brand in India, often referred to as the “King of Good Times.” With a legacy that dates back to 1978, Kingfisher has become synonymous with beer in India.

The brand offers a range of products, including Kingfisher Premium, a light lager with a balanced taste, and Kingfisher Strong, which has a higher alcohol content and is one of the most popular choices in the country.

Kingfisher is a celebrated name in the Indian beer market, known for its smooth and refreshing lagers. Its reputation for quality and consistency has made it a popular choice across various demographics.

History:

Introduced in 1978 by United Breweries Group in Bangalore, India, Kingfisher was established by Dr. Vijay Mallya. The brand quickly gained popularity due to its premium quality and wide availability.

Dr. Mallya envisioned a beer that was both accessible and high-quality, a vision that has been realized with Kingfisher’s enduring presence in the market.

Variants of Kingfisher beer:

• Kingfisher Premium (ABV: 4.8%): Light, refreshing flagship lager.
• Kingfisher Strong (ABV: 8%): Robust, full-bodied strong beer.
• Kingfisher Ultra (ABV: 5%): Smooth, premium lager for upscale drinkers.
• Kingfisher Blue (ABV: 8%): Crisp, clean beer for younger consumers.
• Kingfisher Ultra Max (ABV: 8%): Luxurious, strong premium lager.
• Kingfisher Storm (ABV: 6-8%): Bold, intense beer with daring flavours.
• Kingfisher Draught (ABV: 5%): Light, refreshing beer on tap.
• Kingfisher Red (ABV: 8%): Unique red lager with a rich, malty flavour.
• Kingfisher Radler (ABV: 2%): Low-alcohol, a refreshing mix of beer and lemon soda.
• Kingfisher Buzz (ABV: 6-7%): Fruity, flavoured beer for a youthful audience.

Here are the key facts for Kingfisher beer:

• Manufacturer: United Breweries Group
• Established: 1978
• Popular Regions: India, including major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi.
• Taste Profile:
  • Kingfisher Premium Lager – Smooth and crisp with a light, refreshing flavor.
  • Kingfisher Strong – More robust with a higher alcohol content, featuring a fuller flavor.
• Market Position: Kingfisher is one of India’s most iconic and widely recognized beer brands, known for its consistent quality and broad appeal across various segments of beer drinkers.

Reference: “For more information on Kingfisher beer, visit the https://www.unitedbreweries.com/our-brands.

ALSO READ: Top 13 Most Popular Beer Brands in the World

2. Bira 91

Bira 91 has quickly become a popular name in the Indian beer market, known for its innovative flavours and unique branding. Launched in 2015, Bira 91 has carved out a niche with its craft-style beers, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional options.

As one of the top beer brands in India, Bira 91 appeals to a younger, urban demographic with its bold taste and variety of options, making it a must-have on any curated beer list in the hospitality industry.

History:

Bira 91 is brewed by B9 Beverages, headquartered in New Delhi, India. The company, founded in 2015, produces Bira 91 beer at its state-of-the-art facility in the region.

Known for its craft-style beers, Bira 91 focuses on quality and innovative brewing processes to deliver a distinct and refreshing experience.

Bira 91 offers several beer variants with varying ABV (Alcohol By Volume) levels:

• Bira 91 White (ABV: 4.7%): Smooth wheat beer with citrus notes.
• Bira 91 Blonde (ABV: 4.9%): Crisp, slightly fruity, smooth finish.
• Bira 91 Strong (ABV: 7%): Bold, full-bodied ale with a bitter finish.
• Bira 91 Light (ABV: 4%): Low-calorie, easy-drinking lager.
• Bira 91 Boom Classic (ABV: 4.5%): Crisp lager with mild bitterness.
• Bira 91 Boom Strong (ABV: 7%): Full-flavored lager with a bold taste.
• Bira 91 IPA (ABV: 6.5%): Hoppy, aromatic India Pale Ale with tropical notes.
• Bira 91 Malabar Stout (ABV: 4.5%): Dark stout with rich coffee and chocolate flavours.
• Bira 91 Kokum Sour (ABV: 4.5%): Fruity, tart beer with a unique sour twist.
• Bira 91 Blonde Lager (ABV: 4.9%): Refreshing, mildly hoppy lager.
• Bira 91 Low Cal (ABV: 4%): Low-calorie lager for health-conscious drinkers.

Here are the key facts for Bira 91 beer:

• Manufacturer: B9 Beverages Pvt. Ltd.
• Established: 2015
• Popular Regions: India, particularly in urban areas like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore.
• Taste Profile:
  • Bira 91 Blonde – Crisp and slightly fruity with a smooth finish.
  • Bira 91 White – Refreshing Belgian-style wheat beer with hints of citrus and spice.
  • Bira 91 Strong – Bold and robust with a higher alcohol content.
• Market Position: Bira 91 is a prominent craft beer brand in India, known for its innovative flavors and modern branding, appealing to a diverse range of beer enthusiasts.

Reference: “Explore Bira 91’s range of beers on their official website.”

ALSO READ: What are the different types of beer?

3. Royal Challenge

Royal Challenge offers a range of beers known for their smooth taste and reliable quality. The brand caters to those who appreciate consistency and value in their beer choices.

History:

Royal Challenge beer is brewed by the Royal Challenge Beverages Ltd., based in Andhra Pradesh, India. Established in 1993, the brewery specializes in producing Royal Challenge beer with a focus on quality and consistency.

The production facility employs modern brewing techniques to ensure a premium and enjoyable beer experience.

Royal Challenge beer has several variants with different ABV levels:

• Royal Challenge Premium (ABV: 5%): Smooth, light lager with a balanced taste.
• Royal Challenge Strong (ABV: 8%): Bold, full-bodied beer with a strong flavour.
• Royal Challenge Lite (ABV: 4.5%): Crisp, refreshing light beer with lower alcohol content.
• Royal Challenge Black (ABV: 6%): Rich, dark beer with notes of coffee and chocolate.

Here are the key facts for Royal Challenge beer:

• Manufacturer: Shaw Wallace & Company Ltd. (part of the United Breweries Group)
• Established: 1980s
• Popular Regions: India, with a strong presence in northern states like Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi.
• Taste Profile:
  • Royal Challenge Premium Lager – Smooth and balanced with a clean, refreshing taste.
  • Royal Challenge Strong – More robust with higher alcohol content and a richer flavor.
• Market Position: Royal Challenge is well-regarded for its quality and consistency, catering to beer drinkers who appreciate both smooth lagers and stronger beer options.

Also Read: The Ultimate Guide to Serving Beer: Tips, Techniques, and Best Practices

Reference: “Learn more about Royal Challenge beers on their official website.”

4. Simba

Simba is renowned for its traditional brewing methods and classic beer styles. The brand offers a range of beers, including both lagers and stouts, known for their robust flavours.

History:

Simba beer is brewed by Simba Beverages, headquartered in Jaipur, India. Launched in 2016, Simba Beverages focuses on delivering high-quality craft beer.

The brewery uses advanced brewing technology at its state-of-the-art facility to produce Simba beer, which is known for its distinctive taste and refreshing quality.

Simba beer offers a few distinct variants:

• Simba Strong (ABV: 8%): Bold, full-bodied beer with a robust flavor.
• Simba Stout (ABV: 5.5%): Rich, dark stout with coffee and chocolate notes.
• Simba Lager (ABV: 5%): Crisp, refreshing lager with a smooth finish.
• Simba Light (ABV: 4%): Easy-drinking, low-calorie lager.

Essential Details on Simba Beer:

• Manufacturer: Simba Beverages Pvt. Ltd.
• Established: 2016
• Popular Regions: India, with a strong presence in metropolitan areas like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore.
• Taste Profile:
  • Simba Strong – Bold and robust flavour with higher alcohol content.
  • Simba Stout – Rich, dark stout with notes of roasted malt, coffee, and chocolate.
• Market Position: Simba is a rising craft beer brand in India, known for its quality ingredients and distinct flavour profiles, appealing to craft beer enthusiasts.

Reference: “Find out more about Simba beer at their official website.”

5. Godfather

Godfather beer is a name synonymous with strength and boldness in India’s beer market. Produced by Devans Modern Breweries Ltd., it has carved out a significant niche for itself, especially among those who appreciate a strong, full-bodied brew.

Known for its robust flavour and higher alcohol content, Godfather beer has become a favourite in many parts of the country, particularly in the northern regions. This article delves into the history, variants, and key facts about this iconic Indian beer brand.

History

Godfather beer was introduced by Devans Modern Breweries Ltd., a company with a rich history in India’s brewing industry. Established in the 1960s, Devans Modern Breweries began as a small-scale operation and gradually expanded its portfolio to include a range of beverages.

Godfather beer, one of its flagship products, was launched with the aim of providing a strong and satisfying beer to the Indian market. Over the years, it has gained a loyal customer base, known for its consistent quality and bold taste.

Godfather beer variants:

• Godfather Strong (ABV: 8%): Robust, full-bodied beer with a powerful taste.
• Godfather Premium (ABV: 5%): Smooth, well-balanced lager with a clean finish.
• Godfather Light (ABV: 4.5%): Light, refreshing beer with a mild flavour.
• Godfather Black (ABV: 6%): Dark beer with rich, roasted malt flavours.

Essential Details on Godfather Beer:

• Manufacturer: Devans Modern Breweries Ltd.
• Established: 1960s
• Popular Regions: Northern India, particularly in states like Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi.
• Taste Profile: Strong, robust flavor for Godfather Strong; smooth and refreshing for Godfather Lager.
• Market Position: Known for its strength and quality, Godfather has maintained a strong presence in India’s beer market, especially in the strong beer segment.

Reference: “Visit the official website for details on Godfather beer.”

6. Budweiser India

Budweiser India stands as a testament to the global appeal of Budweiser beer, now enjoying significant popularity in the Indian beer market. Produced by AB InBev, Budweiser India has established a prominent presence, particularly among those who appreciate a classic, smooth lager with international acclaim.

Renowned for its crisp taste and consistency, Budweiser India has become a favored choice across the country, resonating with beer enthusiasts who seek both quality and reliability. This article explores the history, variants, and essential details of Budweiser’s journey in India.

History:

Budweiser, originally brewed by Anheuser-Busch in the United States, made its entry into the Indian market through AB InBev, a global brewing giant. The brand was introduced to India in the early 2000s, aiming to bring its renowned quality and taste to a new audience.

Budweiser India has since become a staple in the Indian beer landscape, combining the brand’s international heritage with local market preferences.

Budweiser India primarily features the following variants:

• Budweiser (ABV: 5%): Classic, smooth lager with a crisp, clean taste.
• Budweiser Magnum (ABV: 6%): Stronger variant with a richer, fuller flavour.
• Budweiser Select 55 (ABV: 4.4%): Light, a low-calorie lager with a refreshing taste.
• Budweiser 66 (ABV: 6%): Full-bodied beer with a robust flavour profile.

Essential Details on Budweiser India

• Manufacturer: AB InBev
• Established: Early 2000s in India
• Popular Regions: Widely available across India, including major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore.
• Taste Profile: Crisp, smooth, and well-balanced with a light body, providing a refreshing drinking experience.
• Market Position: Budweiser India leverages its global brand recognition to maintain a strong presence in the Indian market, offering a classic lager that meets high-quality standards and appeals to both casual and discerning beer drinkers.

7. Hoegaarden India

Hoegaarden India brings the renowned Belgian witbier experience to the Indian beer market. Produced by Anheuser-Busch InBev.

Hoegaarden has established a distinctive presence in India, offering a refreshing and unique beer option for enthusiasts seeking a taste of Belgium.

Known for its signature cloudy appearance and citrusy, spiced flavour, Hoegaarden India has become a favoured choice among those who appreciate a light and flavorful wheat beer.

History

Hoegaarden, originally brewed in the Belgian town of the same name, is celebrated for its traditional brewing techniques and distinctive flavor profile. Anheuser-Busch InBev introduced Hoegaarden to the Indian market to cater to a growing demand for international craft beers.

Since its launch in India, Hoegaarden has gained popularity for its unique characteristics, setting itself apart in a competitive market with its authentic Belgian heritage.

Hoegaarden India primarily features the following variants:

• Hoegaarden Original White (ABV: 4.9%): Classic Belgian wheat beer with citrus and coriander notes.
• Hoegaarden Rosée (ABV: 3%): Light, fruity beer with raspberry flavours and a refreshing taste.
• Hoegaarden Grand Cru (ABV: 8.5%): Rich, strong Belgian ale with a complex flavour profile and smooth finish.

Essential Details on Hoegaarden India

• Manufacturer: Anheuser-Busch InBev
• Established: Early 2000s in India
• Popular Regions: Available across major Indian cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore.
• Taste Profile: Light and refreshing with a cloudy appearance, featuring citrus, coriander, and subtle spice notes.
• Market Position: Hoegaarden India leverages its Belgian roots and distinctive flavor profile to carve out a niche in the Indian craft beer market, appealing to those seeking a unique and high-quality beer experience.

Reference: “Discover more about Hoegaarden in India on their official website.”

8. Carlsberg India

Carlsberg India represents a well-established name in the Indian beer market, bringing international quality and tradition to local consumers. Produced by Carlsberg Group, this brand has carved out a significant presence in India, known for its classic lagers and commitment to brewing excellence.

Renowned for its smooth taste and consistency, Carlsberg India has become a popular choice among beer enthusiasts across the country. This article delves into the history, variants, and essential details about Carlsberg’s journey in India.

History

Carlsberg, a renowned Danish brewery founded in 1847, made its debut in India through Carlsberg Group’s local operations. Entering the Indian market in the late 2000s.

Carlsberg India aimed to offer high-quality lagers that reflect the brand’s global standards. With its rich brewing heritage and commitment to quality, Carlsberg India has steadily gained popularity among Indian beer drinkers.

Carlsberg India primarily features the following variants:

• Carlsberg (ABV: 5%): Classic lager with a crisp, refreshing taste.
• Carlsberg Elephant (ABV: 7.2%): Strong lager with a robust flavor and higher alcohol content.
• Carlsberg Smooth (ABV: 5%): Smooth, easy-drinking lager with a balanced taste.
• Carlsberg 0.0 (ABV: 0.0%): Non-alcoholic version with a similar taste to the original lager.

Essential Details on Carlsberg India

• Manufacturer: Carlsberg Group
• Established: Late 2000s in India
• Popular Regions: Widely available across India, including major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore.
• Taste Profile:
  • Carlsberg Lager – Smooth, crisp, and well-balanced with a refreshing finish.
  • Carlsberg Elephant – Stronger with a fuller flavor, yet still smooth and refined.
• Market Position: Carlsberg India leverages its global reputation and brewing expertise to maintain a strong presence in the Indian market, offering high-quality lagers that appeal to both casual and discerning beer drinkers.

9. Haywards

Haywards is known for its strong beers, offering a range of options with bold flavors and high alcohol content. The brand caters to those who enjoy a more intense beer experience.

History

Haywards beer is brewed by Shaw Wallace & Company Ltd., part of the United Breweries Group, in India. Established in 1920, the brewery produces Haywards beer with a distinctive, robust flavour. The state-of-the-art facility ensures quality and consistency in every batch, maintaining the brand’s premium status.

Variants of Haywards:

• Haywards 5000 (ABV: 7.5%): Strong beer with a bold, full-bodied flavor.
• Haywards 10000 (ABV: 10%): Extra-strong beer with an intense, robust taste.
• Haywards Black (ABV: 7%): Dark beer with rich, roasted malt flavors and a smooth finish.

Here are the key facts for Haywards:

• Manufacturer: United Breweries Group (now owned by Anheuser-Busch InBev)
• Established: 1974 in India
• Popular Regions: Widely available across India, especially in rural and semi-urban areas.
• Taste Profile: Strong and malty with a robust flavor, characterized by a slightly bitter aftertaste.
• Market Position: Haywards is one of India’s leading strong beers, particularly popular among consumers looking for a full-bodied, high-alcohol beer. It has a loyal customer base in both rural and urban markets.

Reference: “Explore Haywards beers on their website at AB InBev India

10. Knock Out

Knock Out beer has established itself as a formidable name in the Indian beer industry, celebrated for its robust flavour and high alcohol content. Launched by United Breweries, Knock Out caters to those who prefer their beer strong and uncompromising, making it a popular choice among beer enthusiasts in various regions across India.

As one of the leading strong beer brands in the country, Knock Out appeals to a demographic that values boldness and intensity. Its strong market presence in states like Maharashtra and Karnataka is a testament to its enduring popularity.

History:

Knock Out beer is a product of United Breweries Group, a renowned brewing company in India with a rich history in the beer industry. United Breweries, headquartered in Bangalore, has been a pioneer in the Indian beer market, and Knock Out stands as one of its flagship brands in the strong beer category.

Launched to cater to consumers seeking a high-alcohol beer with a full-bodied flavor, Knock Out quickly gained traction and became a staple in the strong beer segment. Its aggressive marketing campaigns, often focusing on themes of strength and resilience, have helped it maintain a loyal customer base.

Here are Knock Out beer variants:

• Knock Out Strong (ABV: 8%): Full-bodied, strong lager with a robust flavour.
• Knock Out Premium Lager (ABV: 5%): Crisp, an easy-drinking lager with a balanced taste.

Here’s the Essential Details on Knock Out beer:

• Manufacturer: United Breweries Group
• Established: 1999 in India
• Popular Regions: Available in major cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, and Hyderabad.
• ABV: 5% to 8%, depending on the variant.
• Taste Profile: Bold and strong, with robust flavors and a smooth finish, catering to those who prefer a high-alcohol beer.
• Market Position: Knock Out is positioned as a strong beer brand, known for its intense flavor and high alcohol content, appealing to consumers seeking a powerful and memorable beer experience.

Reference: “Explore Knock Out beers on their website at AB InBev India

11. Kati Patang

Kati Patang offers a selection of lagers and strong beers with traditional flavours and modern appeal. The brand aims to provide a balanced beer experience.

History:

Kati Patang beer is produced by Kati Patang Beverages Pvt. Ltd., based in Pune, India. Launched in the early 2000s, the brewery focuses on delivering a quality beer experience with a unique flavor profile. The modern production facility ensures consistency and high standards in every batch of Kati Patang beer.

Variants of Kati Patang:

• Kati Patang Premium Lager (ABV: 5%): Smooth and refreshing with a balanced flavor.
• Kati Patang Strong (ABV: 8%): Bold and full-bodied with a higher alcohol content.
• Kati Patang Light (ABV: 4%): Crisp and easy drinking with lower calories.

Here are the key facts about Kati Patang:

• Manufacturer: Kati Patang Beverages Pvt. Ltd.
• Established: 2018 in India
• Popular Regions: Available in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Goa.
• ABV: 4.8% to 5.3%, depending on the variant.
• Taste Profile: Bold, smooth, and flavorful with a well-rounded maltiness and a subtle bitterness, offering a distinct craft beer experience.
• Market Position: Kati Patang positions itself as a craft beer brand with a focus on authenticity, quality ingredients, and a rebellious spirit, resonating with urban, free-spirited consumers in India.

Learn more about Kati Patang beer at their official website.”

12. White Owl

White Owl is known for its craft beers and ciders, offering a range of unique and high-quality options. The brand is celebrated for its innovative approach to brewing.

History:

White Owl beer is brewed by White Owl Brewery, based in Mumbai, India. Founded in 2011, the brewery is known for its premium craft beers. White Owl beer is produced at its state-of-the-art facility, where traditional brewing methods and modern techniques combine to create distinctive and flavorful beers.

Variants of White Owl:

• White Owl Ace (ABV: 4.8%): Crisp, clean lager with a refreshing taste.
• White Owl Spark (ABV: 5%): Smooth, light lager with a balanced, slightly hoppy flavor.
• White Owl, The Wit (ABV: 4.5%): Belgian-style wheat beer with citrus and coriander notes.
• White Owl, The Wild (ABV: 5.5%): India Pale Ale with hoppy bitterness and tropical fruit flavors.

Essential Details on Carlsberg India:

• Manufacturer: White Owl Brewery
• Established: 2014 in India
• Popular Regions: Available across major Indian cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Pune, and Goa.
• ABV: Ranges from 4.5% to 7.0%, depending on the variant.
• Taste Profile: Diverse range with options from crisp, light-bodied ales to rich, full-flavored stouts, catering to a variety of palates.
• Market Position: White Owl positions itself as a craft beer brand, offering innovative and artisanal brews, appealing to urban millennials and craft beer enthusiasts in India.

13. Tiger India Beer

Tiger India Beer brings the iconic flavours of Singapore’s renowned lager to the Indian beer scene. Produced by Tiger Brewery, a part of the Asia Pacific Breweries Group, Tiger Beer has established a notable presence in India, known for its crisp and refreshing characteristics.

Renowned for its distinctive taste and international reputation, Tiger Beer India appeals to beer enthusiasts who appreciate a high-quality lager with a global pedigree. This article explores the history, variants, and essential details of Tiger Beer’s journey in India.

History:

Tiger Beer was first brewed in Singapore in 1932 by Asia Pacific Breweries. The brand quickly gained a reputation for its quality and distinct taste, becoming a popular choice across Asia.

Entering the Indian market in the early 2010s, Tiger Beer aimed to offer a premium lager experience to Indian consumers. With its global reputation and consistent quality, Tiger Beer India has managed to carve out a significant niche in the competitive Indian beer market.

Tiger Beer India primarily features the following variants:

• Tiger Beer (ABV: 5%): Classic lager with a crisp, refreshing taste and a clean finish.
• Tiger Crystal (ABV: 4.5%): Light, an easy-drinking lager with a smooth, mild flavour.
• Tiger Black (ABV: 5.5%): Dark beer with rich, roasted malt flavours and a smooth finish.

Essential Details on Tiger Beer India

• Manufacturer: Asia Pacific Breweries Group
• Established: Early 2010s in India
• Popular Regions: Available across major Indian cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore.
• ABV: Tiger Lager – 5.0%
• Taste Profile: Clean, crisp, and well-balanced with a refreshing finish, characteristic of a high-quality lager.
• Market Position: Tiger Beer India leverages its global heritage and brewing expertise to offer a premium lager experience, appealing to both casual and discerning beer drinkers in India.

Reference: “For more information on Tiger Beer in India, visit their official website.”

Conclusion

The top beer brands list in India showcases a rich variety of options for beer lovers. From mainstream choices like Kingfisher and Royal Challenge to innovative craft brews from Arbor Brewing Company and White Owl, there is something for every palate.

Exploring these top 13 beer brands will give you a deeper appreciation of India’s diverse beer landscape. Whether you prefer a classic lager, a bold stout, or a refreshing cider, the Indian beer market has a wealth of flavours to discover and enjoy. Cheers to finding and savouring the best beers India has to offer!

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