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The world of beer is vast, and for many in the UK, the journey is just beginning when it comes to exploring brews from Asia. While you might be familiar with one or two names, the landscape of Chinese beer has expanded dramatically. It now offers everything from crisp, classic lagers to innovative craft beers infused with traditional flavours.
Navigating this growing market can be a challenge. How do you choose between a familiar favourite and a new, intriguing flavoured craft beer? This guide is designed to help. As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to provide clear, practical advice to help you find a beer that suits your palate, whether you're pairing it with a meal, seeking a nostalgic taste or simply curious to try something new.
Before you buy Chinese beer online, considering a few key points can help you make a more informed choice.
The first distinction to make is between the traditional Asian lager and the burgeoning Chinese craft beer scene.
When exploring imported beers, pay close attention to the description. Brewers like Kingstar beer are pushing boundaries with unique combinations. For instance, a Bingtanghulu beer draws inspiration from a traditional candied fruit snack, offering a sweet and tart taste. A jasmine tea beer provides a more delicate, aromatic and floral experience. Always check the ingredients list for potential allergens (most beer contains barley) and the ABV (Alcohol by Volume) to understand its strength.
Consider what you'll be eating. A crisp, clean lager is a versatile choice that won't overpower your meal. It's perfect for cutting through the heat of Sichuan cuisine or cleansing the palate between bites of dim sum. A more distinctively flavoured craft beer can be used for more specific pairings. A tart, fruity beer might complement rich, roasted meats, while a floral, tea-infused beer could be an elegant match for seafood or chicken.
Here are a few noteworthy options that showcase the diversity of Chinese brewing available in the UK.
Why It Stands Out: This beer is a direct nod to a beloved traditional Chinese snack, Bingtanghulu (candied hawthorn on a stick). It successfully translates that nostalgic sweet-and-tart flavour into a refreshing craft beer, creating a truly unique drinking experience that is both modern and deeply rooted in culture.
Pros:
Who is it for?: This is an excellent choice for the adventurous beer drinker who enjoys fruity or sour styles. It's also perfect for anyone looking to try a flavoured craft beer that offers a genuine taste of modern Chinese culinary creativity.
Why It Stands Out: As one of the most recognisable names in Chinese beer, Tsingtao delivers consistency and quality. Brewed in a classic German lager style, it uses a century-old yeast strain to produce a beer that is exceptionally crisp, clean and refreshing. It is the benchmark for an Asian lager.
Pros:
Who is it for?: Fans of classic, no-fuss lagers will appreciate Tsingtao's quality. It is the go-to option for those seeking a dependable and refreshing beer to accompany a meal, and for anyone wanting a familiar taste of a well-loved imported Chinese beer.
Why It Stands Out: This brew artfully merges two of China's most famous beverages: tea and beer. The delicate, floral fragrance of jasmine is infused into a crisp craft beer base, resulting in a sophisticated and remarkably refreshing drink. It avoids being overly sweet, allowing the aromatic tea notes to shine.
Pros:
Who is it for?: This jasmine tea beer is ideal for tea lovers and those who appreciate more nuanced, aromatic beverages. It's a superb choice for someone looking for a lighter craft beer to pair with delicate foods like fish or steamed chicken, or to enjoy as a refreshing drink on a warm day.
These recommendations offer a glimpse into the exciting world of Chinese beer, but they are just the beginning. The variety of brews available continues to grow, with something to suit every preference. If you'd like to explore a wider range of lagers, ales and other international brews, we invite you to browse our full collection of beers.
1. What does Tsingtao beer taste like? Tsingtao is a pale lager with a straightforward and pleasant flavour profile. It is known for being crisp and clean, with a noticeable malt sweetness balanced by a mild bitterness from the hops. Its taste is often compared to other well-regarded international pilsners and lagers.
2. Is Chinese beer strong? The strength varies by type. Classic lagers like Tsingtao typically have a standard ABV between 4% and 5%, similar to most lagers worldwide. However, the Chinese craft beer movement includes a wider range of styles, some of which can be stronger. It is always best to check the product label for the specific alcohol percentage.
3. What food pairs well with Chinese beer? Crisp lagers are exceptionally food-friendly and pair well with the entire spectrum of Chinese cuisine, from spicy Sichuan dishes, rich Dongbei stews and delicate Cantonese dim sum. Flavoured craft beers offer more specific pairing opportunities. For example, the tartness of the Kingstar Bingtanghulu beer can cut through the richness of fatty meats like pork belly, while the floral notes of the jasmine tea beer complement lighter seafood and poultry dishes.