Beer in Thailand - A Quick Guide For The Thirsty

Beer in Thailand: A Quick Guide to Local Brews and Craft Beers

Thailand, known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, is also a haven for beer enthusiasts (a forgiving euphemism for drunkards). The country boasts a rich beer-drinking culture, with a variety of local brews that cater to every taste (Germany and Belgium would cringe at this). Whether you're a fan of classic lagers, adventurous craft beers, or international favorites, Thailand has something to offer. Let's dive into the world of Thai beers, exploring both the well-established brands and the emerging craft beer scene.

The Big Three: Iconic Thai Beers

1. Singha Beer: Often considered the king as well as the granddaddy of Thai beers, Singha (pronounced 'sing' if you want to avoid snickering and eye rolls) is a pale lager that has been a staple in Thailand since 1934. Brewed by Boon Rawd Brewery, Singha is known for its crisp, refreshing taste and is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. With a 5% alcohol content, it's a versatile beer that pairs well with spicy Thai cuisine. Singha's distinctive golden lion logo is a familiar sight in bars and restaurants across the country. 

In reality, Singha has lost a lot of its feathers due to fierce competition from other brands (see below) which are cheaper and taste just as bad, if not slightly better. 

2. Chang Beer: Another household name in Thailand, Chang Beer is a pale lager with a slightly sweeter taste compared to Singha. Produced by ThaiBev, Chang is known for its affordable price point and is a favorite among budget-conscious drinkers (affectionately known as Cheap Charlies). With a 5% alcohol content, Chang is a great option for those looking to enjoy a cold beer without breaking the bank. The brand's name translates to "elephant" in Thai, reflecting its strength and popularity.

In reality, Chang is popular because it is cheap and gets the job done. FYI, Changover is real as chugging too many might lead to what locals refer to as a kick of the elephant. 

3. Leo Beer: Leo is a mid-range lager that offers a balance between affordability and quality. Brewed by the same company as Singha, Leo has a grainy yet subtly fruity and sweet flavor profile (this load of bollox is what the brewery wants you to believe). With a 4.8% alcohol content, it's a popular choice among backpackers and locals who appreciate its smooth taste and reasonable price. Leo is often praised for causing fewer hangovers compared to other beers.

In reality, when Singha started losing serious market share to Chang because boozers were cutting costs, its owners decided to release a cheaper version to compete with Chang. As with all beers in Thailand, drinking Leo with ice is de rigeur.

Emerging Craft Beers: A New Wave of Flavors

The craft beer scene in Thailand has been growing rapidly, with a number of local breweries producing unique and innovative beers. Here are some of the standout craft beers to try:

1. Full Moon Chalawan Pale Ale: This craft beer is a favorite among those who appreciate a hoppy and refreshing brew. With its balanced flavor profile, it's a great introduction to the world of Thai craft beers.

2. Mahanakhon White Ale: A crisp and refreshing white ale, Mahanakhon is perfect for those who enjoy a lighter beer with a hint of citrus. It's a popular choice among craft beer enthusiasts in Thailand.

3. Dirty Forty Amber Ale: This amber ale offers a rich and malty flavor profile, making it a great option for those who prefer a darker beer. It's a testament to the diversity of the Thai craft beer scene.

4. Snowy Weizen: A new addition to the Thai craft beer scene, Snowy Weizen is a wheat beer that offers a smooth and refreshing taste. It's quickly gaining popularity among beer enthusiasts in Thailand. It is also sneaky imposter as it's brewed by the all-powerful Boon Rawd Brewery. It's basically a cheap version of Hoegaarden for those who can't afford the real deal.

Other Notable Thai Beers

1. Thai Amarit: This pale lager is primarily brewed for export but can also be found in Bangkok. It offers a mildly sweet flavor with a light hoppy bitterness, making it a unique option for those looking to try something different.

2. Kloster Beer: Brewed to German standards, Kloster Beer is a strong malt beverage with a sweet taste. It's a popular choice among those who appreciate a higher alcohol content and a rich flavor profile.

3. Phuket Lager: Known as Thailand's first regional beer, Phuket Lager offers a slightly bitter yet yeasty and fresh taste. It's a great option for those looking to experience the authentic flavors of Thailand.

4. Archa: A relatively new player in the Thai beer scene, Archa is known for its bubbly content and slightly sweeter taste. It's a popular choice among those who appreciate a unique and refreshing beer.

5. Cheers: This fizzy beer offers a grassy and sweet taste, making it a refreshing option for those looking to try something new. It's a light drink that's perfect for a hot day. 

6. U-Beer: One of the newest beers in Thailand, U-Beer is a pale lager that offers a sweet and subtle flavor. It's aimed at the younger generation and is quickly gaining popularity.

7. Cheers X-Tra: A stronger version of Cheers Beer, Cheers X-Tra offers a higher alcohol content and a more potent taste. It's a popular choice among those looking to enjoy a stronger beer. You might occasionally even encounter the rares Cheers Riceberry in the field.

Foreign Favorites in Thailand

While Thailand has a strong local beer scene, it also offers a variety of international beers. Some of the most popular foreign beers in Thailand include:

1. Heineken: This Dutch beer is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. It's known for its high-quality taste and is a popular choice in bars and restaurants across Thailand.

2. Tiger Beer: A popular beer from Singapore, Tiger Beer is a light and refreshing option that's perfect for a hot day. It's a favorite among those looking to enjoy a crisp and refreshing beer.

Beer Festivals and Events

Thailand is home to a number of beer festivals and events that celebrate the country's love for beer. One of the most notable events is the Beer People Fest, which brings together hundreds of beer brands, local Thai alcohol brands, and food stalls. It's a great opportunity to try new and small brands, as well as enjoy live music and other entertainment.

Regulations and Tips for Enjoying Beer in Thailand

When enjoying beer in Thailand, it's important to be aware of the local regulations and customs. Alcoholic beverages can only be sold during specific times of the day, and it's important to adhere to these rules. Additionally, it's customary to share drinks with friends and to observe basic drinking etiquette, such as pouring drinks for others and toasting the most senior individual in the group first. 

Ice is basically mandatory if you're drinking with Thais. Try it. The ice is factory-made and safe. Also, keep drinking respectful. Don't be that farang walking down the streets chugging a big bottle of Chang (even worse when they're shirtless and loud).

Whether you're a fan of classic lagers or adventurous craft beers, Thailand offers a diverse and exciting beer scene that's sure to satisfy every taste. So, the next time you find yourself in Thailand, be sure to explore the many beer options available and raise a glass to the country's rich beer-drinking culture. Cheers!