With so many local independent breweries popping up in the Land Down Under, it’s safe to say that craft beer is becoming Australia’s drink of choice. Australia’s southeastern state Victoria is considered the capital of craft beer by many and has one of the most vibrant craft beer scenes, making it a destination worth exploring for any brew enthusiast.
So, where can you find Victoria’s local beer? All over would seem like a too general response, but since there are more than 150 breweries in Vic only, there’s always one just around the corner. Still, you don’t have to go out of your way just to try Vic beers as there are well-stocked online stores that offer a beautiful array of flavours with speedy nationwide delivery.
With that being said, let’s dive right into some of the most popular craft beers Victoria has to offer. From bold and beautiful to fun and quirky, all the way to non-alcoholic brews, all promising to expand your brew horizons.
Lager
Starting with the most popular beer style in Australia, lager. A refreshing and easy-drinking beer with a crisp flavour and carefully balanced bitterness, perfect for the hot days of summer.
If you’re looking to quench your thirst with a smooth brew that’ll keep you coming back for more, look no further than Bad Shepherd Lager. A continental-style lager with 4.0% alcohol content, likely to become your go-to pick after a long day of work.
American Pale Ale
If you have a soft spot for amber colour and bold, hoppy flavour, American Pale Ale-style Victoria beers will throw a feast for your senses. Ranging from medium to full-bodied, there’s a can for every meal and occasion calling for a flavourful and easy-drinking beverage.
One of the most popular craft beers Victoria locals turn to for a flavourful dose of hops is the Bridge Road Beechworth Pale Ale. Crisp and refreshing, yet hop-forward, it strikes a nice balance between flavour and strength, making it a perfect choice for casual or social drinking.
Indian Pale Ale
As a beer style often characterized by a strong, hoppy flavour and intense bitterness, IPA isn’t for everyone. But if “don’t worry be hoppy” is your motto, you should definitely try some of the bold IPA-style Victoria beers.
One of them is the Blackman’s Needs More Strata IPA, which will lure you in with a deep hoppy aroma and then invigorate your senses with a kick of passionfruit and melon, plus a hint of strawberry.
Pilsner
If you prefer a mild beer to get you through the heat, you can reach for a can or two of carefully crafted pilsner by some of Victoria’s local breweries. Why not reach for industrial pilsner instead? Because you may be robbed of a beautiful bouquet of aromas and flavours. Hawkers Pilsner, for instance, is pretty generous that way, offering a clean, refreshing, yet complex flavour that’s anything but boring.
Porter
Enter the rich and creamy world of porters – beware though, you may never want to leave. This beer style boasts a complex flavour profile with notes of roasted grains, coffee and even chocolate. An indulgent experience you’ll want to savour in the colder months as this heavy-bodied beer style has a way of making you feel nice and toasty.
If you want to treat yourself to the ultimate dark beer experience, consider trying the Bridge Road Robust Porter that’s big and bold in flavour, yet offers an easy-drinking experience. This precious brew will pamper you with chocolate and mocha notes that pair beautifully with rich desserts on cold winter nights.
Stout
Meet Porter’s younger, stronger cousin – Stout. Although closely related, stout beer styles are usually fuller-bodied but maintain that scrumptious flavour and creamy mouthfeel. If you fancy a smooth and malty pint, check out the Boatrocker Stout as a carefully balanced and hearty ale.
Sour Ale
Did someone mention fun and quirky earlier? Sour ales are here to take your taste buds on a flavour rollercoaster with their tart and refreshing profiles packed with punches of fruit like lime, pineapple, and berries.
Hop Nation’s Forbidden Blackberry & Raspberry Sour is a brew not to be reckoned with due to its higher alcohol content. It had to be said because this full-bodied dark berry delight will have you asking for seconds.
Non-Alcoholic Beer
If you’re all about that flavour, but none about that headache, or simply want to treat your underage friends to a delicious gift, consider Victoria’s non-alcoholic craft beers. The best thing about these beers is that they are available in a wide choice of styles, so even if you went out and tried all of them, you won’t regret your decision in the morning.
Before You Go
Taste-testing craft beers can be an exciting journey, but make sure to drink responsibly for the best and safest experience.