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If your palate is growing tired of the same old IPAs and stouts, you might be looking for the next frontier in brewing. The world of craft beer is expanding, and one of the most exciting developments is the rise of Chinese craft beer. Brewers are combining traditional brewing techniques with uniquely Asian ingredients, creating flavours that are both novel and nostalgic.
As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my role is to help you navigate this emerging scene. This guide is designed to introduce you to some of the most interesting flavour profiles coming out of China and provide practical advice for choosing a brew that will excite your taste buds.
Venturing into a new beer category can be daunting. Here are a few pointers to help you select a bottle or can you will genuinely enjoy.
The appeal of many Chinese craft beers lies in their use of local ingredients. If you are a fan of jasmine tea or enjoy the sweet and sour notes in Asian cuisine, you are in for a treat. Brewers are incorporating everything from floral teas to traditional sweets into their recipes. Looking for a jasmine tea beer or a brew inspired by the iconic tanghulu (candied hawthorn) is a great starting point for experiencing these unique craft beer flavours.
Many offerings, such as Kingstar beer, come in larger 1-litre formats. This makes them ideal for sharing at social gatherings, barbecues, or dinner parties. A light, refreshing lemon salt gose is perfect for a warm afternoon, while a more complex, fruit-forward beer can be a fantastic conversation starter among fellow foodies.
As with any craft beer, the alcohol by volume (ABV) can vary significantly. Some flavoured craft beer options are designed to be light and sessionable, often with an ABV between 3% and 5%. Others might be stronger and more complex. Always check the label to ensure the strength aligns with your preference.
We have selected a few standout examples that showcase the creativity of the Chinese craft beer scene. These options are available to purchase online in the UK, making it easy to start your tasting journey.
Why It Stands Out: This beer elegantly bridges the gap between traditional Chinese tea culture and modern craft brewing. It infuses the delicate, aromatic fragrance of jasmine tea directly into the brew, creating a sophisticated and layered drinking experience that is both refreshing and complex.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is an excellent choice for fans of aromatic white wines or gin, as well as any beer drinker looking for a refined and less hop-dominant alternative. It is also perfect for those who already appreciate the subtleties of fine tea.
Why It Stands Out: A take on the German Gose style, this beer delivers a sharp, refreshing kick. The infusion of real lemon juice and a touch of sea salt creates a zesty, slightly savoury character that is incredibly thirst-quenching. It is a prime example of a lemon salt gose with a Chinese twist.
Pros:
Who is it for? If you enjoy Radlers, shandies, or sour beers, this will be right up your alley. It is the ideal companion for warm weather and appeals to those seeking a beer that is bright, tangy, and exceptionally refreshing.
Why It Stands Out: Perhaps the most adventurous of the trio, this tanghulu beer is inspired by Bingtanghulu, a traditional Chinese snack of candied hawthorn. It combines the sweet and tangy flavour of hawthorn with the creamy notes of "milk skin" and yogurt, resulting in a truly unique brew.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is for the adventurous foodie and cultural explorer. If you actively seek out novel taste experiences and enjoy beers that challenge convention, this sweet, tangy and creamy creation is a must-try.
The world of Asian beer in the UK is vast and continually growing. If these specific recommendations are not quite what you are looking for, or if you are simply curious to see what other unique products are available, there is more to discover.
From distinctive snacks to other intriguing beverages, you can find a wider selection of items that bring the flavours of China to your home.
️ Explore our full Chinese category to discover more unique finds.
There is no single answer, which is what makes it so exciting. The flavour profiles are incredibly diverse, often reflecting regional ingredients and culinary traditions. You can find everything from light, floral beers brewed with jasmine tea to tart, fruity beers made with hawthorn and even crisp, salty Gose-style ales. The common thread is a willingness to experiment beyond traditional malt and hop profiles.
Kingstar is a brewery that is actively exploring the flavoured craft beer market in China. They are becoming noted for their innovative approach, creating brews that incorporate nostalgic and traditional Chinese flavours, such as those found in their jasmine tea and tanghulu-inspired beers.
While some larger supermarkets are beginning to stock mainstream Asian lagers, finding genuine Chinese craft beer can be more challenging. Specialist online retailers are often the most convenient and reliable source. Platforms that import directly, like Joybuy, provide access to a curated selection of these unique and harder-to-find brews.