Craft beers are like cocktails: You need to know your stuff before heading to the bar. Since Oktoberfest is here, you better brush up quick on the finest local craft beers and where to get them.
Here are some of the most notable craft beers in the local bar scene—arranged helpfully by alcohol content per bottle or ABV. Cheers!
Gusi Violet Ale by Cerveza Sagada
Rich and earthy, with fruity undertones and a sweet smell
4.2% ABV
Photo courtesy of DrinkManila
Cerveza Sagada uses a native black rice called balitinao, which results in a unique violet-colored beer.
Sierra Madre Wheat Pale Ale by Joe’s Brew
Sweet floral and fruity notes with a slight bitter undertaste
4.3% ABV
With its low alcohol content and citrus base, this brew is great for ladies’ night or newbies to the craft beers scene.
Oatmeal Coffee Stout by Sikatuna Craft Brewery
Smoky, with strong hints of coffee and chocolate
4.7% ABV
Now you don’t have to choose between having another beer or leaving for coffee. The typical “roasted” flavor of a stout pairs well with the satisfying taste of bitter coffee.
Indo Pale Ale by Katipunan Craft Ales
Classic malt taste with citrus notes and a bitter finish
4.8% ABV
This was one of the company’s first brews on tap, one of the first true Filipino craft beers, and has definitely reached iconic status.
Liberation Pale Ale by Craftpoint Brewing Co.
A Belgian pale ale with sweet aroma and bitter finish
5.5% ABV
The Liberation is what started it all for Craftpoint. This is a great intro for a beginner into the world of craft beer and pale ale, and is a good pair with everything from steak to sisig.
Palaw’an Honey Kolsch by Palaweño Brewery
Light, crisp flavor mixed with rich honey notes
6.5% ABV
Owner Ayah Javier calls this their “tribal beer”, and is made with native Palawan honey.
It takes inspiration from foreign beers—in this case, the German variety, but is made purely with locally sourced ingredients.
Far Far Away Galaxy New England IPA by Elias Wicked Ales and Spirits
Fruity guava, mango, grapefruit, and pineapple notes mixed with the bitterness of hops
7% ABV
This is a brew you’ll return to over and over again for its taste. It’s become so famous, the brewery’s even had shirts made for fans to buy.
Endless Summer Wheat Ale by Pedro Brewcrafters
Crisp, sweet flavor with a slight fizz and nutty aftertaste
7% ABV
Photo courtesy of When In Manila
True to its name, this brew definitely screams summer. It was brewed just in time for October 2015 and has remained a staple on many bar boards ever since.
De Puta Madre by Crows Craft Brewery and Distilling Co.
A double IPA with Intense malt tones
8% ABV
Fun fact: The name originated from the Spanish phrase that loosely translates to “the bomb” or “this is sick,” a high compliment for something that’s the best there is.
Its stronger formula and flavor makes makes it an acquired taste, but perfect for hopheads.
Double IPA by Engkanto Brewery
Strong and bitter with fragrant, fruity notes
8.5% ABV
This is one of the strongest local craft beers, but with a full-bodied flavor that pairs well with grilled meat and savoury dishes. Just watch how many you have!
Enjoy your craft beers at the following places and pay for your tab with #PayMayaQR!
The Smoking Joint on Chino Roces Ave. in Makati
Pioneer Street Market in Mandaluyong
KitchenBar at Flotsam and Jetsam Hostel in La Union
You can even order them online by the bottle at boozy.ph with your Maya card!
Check out more places to pay with Maya QR at pymy.co/qrmerchants! #PayMayaMoNow
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