7 Indian Craft Beers You Simply Must Savour

In a country celebrated for its spices, colours and rich traditions, the craft beer revolution has arrived with remarkable flair. No longer confined to imported lagers or mass-produced pilsners, Indian brewers are carving their own spirited path, one beautifully balanced pint at a time. Across bustling metropolises and sleepy hamlets, passionate breweries are fermenting creativity into bottles and kegs, showcasing indigenous ingredients, tropical flavours, and a strong sense of place.

Whether you're a seasoned hophead or a curious beginner, here are seven Indian craft beers you absolutely must try.

1. Simba Stout 

From the heart of Chhattisgarh, Simba brings a craft stout that is a revelation. Their stout is gloriously rich yet surprisingly light on the palate, offering bold notes of coffee, chocolate and roasted malt. It's a drinker's dream for those who want the depth of a heavy brew without the accompanying heaviness. Perfect for cosy evenings or a sophisticated nightcap.

2. Bira 91 Blonde Lager 

One of the most recognisable names in the Indian craft scene, Bira 91's Blonde Lager is a refreshing, easygoing sip that still manages to impress. Brewed with fine barley and noble hops, this lager is clean, citrusy, and just bitter enough to keep things interesting. It's the ultimate companion for spicy Indian snacks or a sun-drenched afternoon.

3. Great State Aleworks Sparkling Ale 

Pune's c dares to be different with their Sparkling Ale. Light-bodied with a lively effervescence, it dances on the tongue with hints of white peaches, honey and a subtle hoppy bite. Designed for the sweltering Indian summer, it pairs beautifully with grilled seafood or just about any lazy brunch under the sun.

4. White Owl Ace 

White Owl Brewery in Mumbai brings a playful, punchy vibe with 'Ace', their crisp, apple-infused cider ale. Though technically a beer, it carries the gentle sweetness and tartness of a well-made cider, making it a brilliant option for those looking to ease into the world of craft brews. Delightfully fizzy and fruit-forward, it's refreshment in a bottle.

5. Maka Di Honey Ale 

Crafted in the tropical paradise of Goa, Maka Di Honey Ale is sunshine captured in a glass. Brewed with locally sourced honey, it offers a soft, velvety texture with floral aromas and a subtly sweet finish. This ale speaks of slow afternoons by the sea, laughter in the breeze, and the simple joy of a well-crafted drink.

6. Arbor Easy Rider 

Bengaluru’s Arbor Brewing Company brings its Easy Rider to the table — and it’s every bit the ride it promises to be. This session ale bursts with tropical fruit notes like passionfruit and mango, underpinned by a light malty backbone. It’s refreshing yet layered, and dangerously drinkable. Ideal for those who want a flavour-packed beer without too much alcohol weight.

7. Susegado Kolsh 

‘Susegado’ translates to the art of chilling in Konkani, and this beer captures that ethos in every sip. Light, crisp and delicately floral, Susegado’s Kolsh is a tribute to German-style kölsch but with a Goan soul. It’s elegant, slightly fruity, and fantastically sessionable — the kind of brew that whispers, rather than shouts, its excellence.

Final Sip

India’s craft beer scene is a bubbling cauldron of innovation, passion, and personality. Brewers across the country are tapping into native ingredients, regional stories and bold experimentation to create beers that are uniquely Indian yet universally appealing.

Next time you reach for a drink, consider stepping away from the ordinary and embracing these delightful Indian brews. Cheers to new adventures, one pint at a time!