Alcoholic Ginger Beer Australia

Let's be honest, Aussies love ginger beer.  From casual backyard barbies to fancy rooftop parties, it's always a crowd-pleaser. But have you tried the alcoholic version?  It's seriously taken off in the last ten years, offering a delicious twist on a classic. So, let's take a deep dive into the world of alcoholic ginger beer in Australia.

A Brief History: From Traditional Tonic to Modern Tipple

Ginger beer's roots trace back to 18th-century England, where it was initially brewed as a fermented beverage using ginger, sugar, and a "ginger bug" – a culture of yeast and bacteria. This original ginger beer was mildly alcoholic, though significantly less so than the modern alcoholic versions. As brewing techniques evolved and commercial production took hold, the alcohol content was largely removed, making it the refreshing soft drink we know today.

Fast forward to today, and the craft beer revolution is in full swing! People are obsessed with traditional brewing techniques and exciting new flavors. This excitement opened the door for alcoholic ginger beer, and it's been a huge hit among those who just want something delicious and refreshing. The availability of alcoholic ginger beer Australia-wide has also increased, making it easier to discover this unique beverage.

Brewing Process: A Delicate Balance of Flavours

Creating a great alcoholic ginger beer is an art form. It requires a careful balance of ingredients and techniques to achieve the desired flavour profile. While recipes vary, the fundamental process generally involves:

Ginger Infusion: High-quality ginger is the star of the show. Brewers use various methods to extract its potent flavour, from grating fresh ginger root to using ginger extracts or oils.

Fermentation: This is where the magic happens.  A carefully selected yeast strain is introduced to the ginger infusion, along with sugar. The yeast consumes the sugar, producing alcohol and carbon dioxide, which gives the ginger beer its characteristic fizz.

Flavouring: Beyond ginger, brewers often incorporate other ingredients such as cardamom, cloves, or cinnamon, as well as citrus fruits like lime or lemon to enhance the flavour profile.

Filtration and Bottling: Once fermentation is complete, the ginger beer is typically filtered to remove any sediment. It is then bottled or canned, ready for consumption.

Styles of Alcoholic Ginger Beer: Exploring the Spectrum

The availability of alcoholic ginger beer in a liquor store in Melbourne is surprisingly diverse. While the core ingredient remains ginger, brewers have experimented with different techniques and flavour combinations, resulting in a wide array of styles:

·      Classic Ginger Beer: This style closely resembles the traditional non-alcoholic version, with a prominent ginger flavour and a refreshing, slightly sweet profile.

Dry Ginger Beer: As the name suggests, this style is less sweet than the classic, with a more pronounced ginger bite and a drier finish.

Spiced Ginger Beer: Brewers often add a blend of spices to their ginger beer, creating a warm and complex flavour profile. Spices like cardamom, cloves and cinnamon are commonly used.

Fruit-Infused Ginger Beer: To add another layer of flavour, some brewers incorporate fruit into their ginger beer. Citrus fruits like lime and lemon are popular choices, but other fruits like berries or mangoes can also be used.

Barrel-Aged Ginger Beer: For a truly unique experience, some ginger beers are aged in oak barrels, which can impart subtle notes of vanilla and oak, adding depth and complexity to the flavour.

Serving Suggestions: Maximising Your Enjoyment

Alcoholic ginger beer is a versatile beverage that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

·         Chilled and Straight: The simplest way to enjoy ginger beer is straight from the fridge, poured over ice.  This allows the refreshing ginger flavour to shine through.  

Cocktail Mixer: Ginger beer is a fantastic mixer for cocktails.  It pairs particularly well with dark spirits like rum and whiskey. Try a classic "Moscow Mule" or experiment with your own creations.  

Food Pairings: The spicy and refreshing character of ginger beer makes it a great match for a variety of foods. It pairs well with spicy Asian cuisine, grilled meats, and even desserts like ginger cake.

The Appeal of Alcoholic Ginger Beer: A Refreshing Alternative

·        Refreshing Flavour: The combination of ginger's spicy warmth and the refreshing fizz makes it a perfect thirst quencher, especially on a hot Australian day.  

Lower Alcohol Content: Compared to many other alcoholic beverages, ginger beer often has a lower alcohol content, making it a lighter and more sessionable option.

Natural Ingredients: Many alcoholic ginger beers are made with natural ingredients, appealing to consumers who are looking for more wholesome beverages.

Versatility: As mentioned earlier, ginger beer can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Rise of Local Favourites: Billsons Alcoholic Ginger Beer

Among the many offerings in the Australian beer market, Billsons Alcoholic Ginger Beer has carved a niche for itself. This brand often focuses on local ingredients and unique brewing techniques, contributing to the diversity and vibrancy of the Australian alcoholic ginger beer scene.

The alcoholic ginger beer market in Australia continues to grow, with new brands and styles emerging regularly. Brewers are constantly innovating, experimenting with new flavours and techniques, ensuring that there's always something new and exciting to discover. At Matthews Liquor, we provide beer delivery in Melbourne, so you can enjoy your favourite brews without leaving the house. Call 0361848217 to place your order or learn more about our extensive selection. We're here to make your beer-buying experience easy and enjoyable.