When you’re visiting Bali, you will notice that beer is one of the most popular beverages in Bali. It is also a significant part of the tourism experience in Bali. No wonder you can find beer, even local craft beer, that easily in Bali.

Key Takeaways

• The craft beer scene in Indonesia appears promising for breweries, combining traditional elements, natural ingredients, and contemporary brewing standards.
• Canard Craft Beer takes pride in using top-quality premium ingredients and traditional brewing methods that have stood the test of time.

This is the reason why tourists love to stay in Bali. It’s really easy to find beer, from bar to local store, you can find every beer brand that you already know before. But, on the other hand, not only tourists who enjoy and appreciate beer.

Currently, Indonesia has experienced a notable upsurge in beer consumption in recent years. This trend explained the dynamic of Indonesian culture and modern influence. Beyond that, a complex tapestry of brewing customs, economic dynamics, social influences, and environmental considerations has shaped Indonesia’s evolving beer industry.

One thing you should notice is that local craft beer is also starting to grow in Indonesia. Especially in Bali, there are a lot of local craft beer breweries that brew the best beer you can try, one of the best breweries in Indonesia is Canard Brewing Co.

In this article, we will dive more into the emergence of local craft beer in Bali, starting from knowing the beer scene in Indonesia and our recommendations. Let’s have a look!

What is Craft Beer?

Craft beer is a beer that is created using high-quality natural ingredients to produce the best flavors, combined with the brewer’s enthusiasm and creativity, resulting in a bottle of beer.

What sets craft beer apart is its production in smaller quantities compared to the large-scale beer factories. These craft breweries are typically small, independent businesses owned by individuals who deeply care about the beer they produce.

The distinguishing factor of craft beer lies in its production process. Craft brewers utilize traditional methods, experiment with flavors, and explore different brewing techniques. Craft beer represents more than just a beverage; it embodies a movement that emphasizes producing beer traditionally and independently, akin to artisans, as opposed to mass-producing it like major beer corporations.

Craft beer prioritizes quality over quantity. It is crafted by small, independent breweries that invest great care in each batch, resulting in a more premium product. Most breweries meticulously select the finest ingredients and devise unique flavors that are not found elsewhere.

In contrast to the large beer factories that prioritize mass production for profit, craft beer resembles an art form. Each sip of craft beer reflects the hard work and passion invested in its creation, offering a distinctive experience that narrates a tale of dedication and artisanship with every batch.

A Little Bit Insight of Beer Culture in Indonesia

Despite Indonesia’s rich history and vibrant cultural heritage, the emergence of a thriving beer culture might come as a surprise to some. However, the shifting social landscape, globalization, and increased exposure to global trends have all contributed to the growing acceptance of beer as a popular beverage among Indonesians.

On the other hand, alcoholic drinks hold a significant position in Indonesian customs, serving as a tangible expression of their identity as Indonesians and their connection to the natural world. Traditional drinking practices persist in rural Indonesia, where the fusion of cooking, music, and daytime drinking reflects the celebration of life as an integral part of their culture.

The origins of beer production in Indonesia embody a fusion of native brewing techniques and external influences. From ancient methods employing local ingredients and fermentation practices passed down through generations to the assimilation of modern brewing technologies and ingredients, beer-making in Indonesia has transformed into a unique blend of tradition and innovation.

Furthermore, the diverse cultural landscape across the Indonesian archipelago has led to a variety of production and consumption patterns. Certain regions, like Java and Bali, have fostered the development of local craft breweries due to substantial import tariffs on alcoholic beverages. This environment has facilitated the flourishing of home-brews, which currently constitute a significant portion, approximately 80%, of the alcohol consumed throughout the nation.

Also read: Beer Indonesia In a Nutshell: The Story of Indonesian Beer Culture

Is Beer Restricted in Indonesia

Government regulations exert a significant impact on the beer industry in Indonesia. Strict licensing procedures, restrictions on advertising, and varying regional policies collectively contribute to a demanding environment for both established breweries and aspiring entrepreneurs. This dynamic regulatory framework necessitates adaptability and compliance to ensure successful operations within the industry.

Conversely, despite its growing popularity, the beer sector in Indonesia faces several economic challenges. From unpredictable taxation measures to distribution hurdles, both local breweries and international beer manufacturers grapple with a challenging economic landscape that significantly impacts their business activities and market expansion.

However, for those who enjoy beer, when it comes to consuming beer and other alcohol in Bali, there are no strict rules, but it is essential to have respect for the local culture and religion.

The Rise of Local Craft Beer to Its Popularity in Indonesia

Now, we will talk about the rise of the local craft beer scene in Indonesia. In recent years, the brewing industry has experienced a significant transformation worldwide, largely influenced by the rapid growth of craft beer. Indonesia, in particular, has witnessed the emergence of a diverse range of beer brands and types making their presence felt. This trend is particularly noticeable in dynamic hubs such as Bali, where a blend of local, contemporary, and tourism influences creates a vibrant and diverse beer culture. Consequently, Bali has become a focal point for various beer brands that have successfully entered the local market.

The surge of craft beer has introduced a new dimension to Indonesia’s beer industry. Renowned for their dedication to excellence, innovation, and unique flavor profiles, craft breweries have cultivated a loyal following among beer enthusiasts. This movement has fostered a more varied beer landscape, nurturing a culture of exploration and appreciation for the craftsmanship behind artisanal brewing.

Despite Indonesia’s relatively moderate alcohol consumption per capita compared to other Southeast Asian nations, the potential for expansion remains considerable. Breweries are eager to navigate the intricate regulatory environment and bureaucratic challenges in the country, recognizing the significant opportunities presented by its substantial population of over 270 million people.

Within this evolving landscape, the craft beer scene in Indonesia appears promising for breweries, combining traditional elements, natural ingredients, and contemporary brewing standards. Several brands have emerged as pioneers in the modern Indonesian craft beer scene, with Canard Brewing Co. standing out as one of the noteworthy contributors.

Also read: Canard: Best Craft Beer Indonesia, Why Should You Try It?

Why You Should Try Local Craft Beer in the Island of Bali

There are several compelling reasons to give local craft beer a try in Bali:

• Unique Flavors and Options: Craft beer in Bali offers a distinctive taste and diverse options as it has a variety of beer styles, ranging from light lagers to the legendary porter.
• Supporting Local Businesses: Opting for craft beer in Bali means supporting small local beer makers, ensuring the sustainability of these small businesses that produce delightful beer.
• Fit for Your Vacation: Craft beer in Bali is perfect for you to enjoy during your vacation in Bali. Each craft beer available has a taste that matches the vibes of a vacation on the beach in Bali accompanied by the swish of the waves and the beautiful beach sand..
• Craftsmanship: Craft beer makers in Bali dedicate their time to ensure the highest quality. They meticulously attend to every detail to achieve the perfect taste and flavor.

In summary, trying craft beer in Bali is more than just a beverage experience. It’s about exploring unique flavors, embracing novelty, and contributing to the local business scene while surrounded by the natural beauty of Bali. Whether you’re a dedicated beer enthusiast or simply seeking a fun and different experience on the island, tasting craft beer is an adventure worth embarking on.

Who is Canard Brewing Co.?

Canard Brewing Co. is a small brewery that started in Denpasar, Bali, in 2022, founded by a passionate brewer. They hold a deep appreciation for the rich history and diverse styles of beer, often drawing inspiration from ancient recipes to create authentic brews.

You can enjoy a variety of craft beers from Canard Brewing Co., including Strawberry Gose, Kolsch, Porter, Session IPA, Weizenbock, and Witbier. The good news is that you can find Canard craft beer in Bali.

But what makes Canard Craft Beer special? Canard takes pride in using top-quality premium ingredients and traditional brewing methods that have stood the test of time. This results in a refined range of beers best enjoyed when poured into a glass and perfectly paired with a wide variety of foods. The brewers at Canard dedicate themselves to ensuring each beer is of the highest quality, paying close attention to every detail to ensure it tastes just right.

One of Canard’s goals is to make beer more inclusive for women. We offer a diverse selection of finely crafted craft beers, hoping to encourage more women to enjoy beer in the same way they might savor a glass of wine – taking the time to appreciate each sip.

Along with our commitment to inclusivity, Canard strives to cater to diverse tastes and preferences. We produce a variety of beers to suit different palates and cater to various types of beer enthusiasts.

Another reason to try craft beer from Canard is to try our diverse options. By choosing Canard craft beer in Bali, you will meet a lot of beer options you can try while staying in Bali. With Canard, you can try varieties of beer styles, ranging from light lagers to the legendary porter.

In summary, savoring Canard craft beer in Bali provides more than just a taste of beer. It’s an opportunity to explore unique flavors, embrace novelty, and contribute to the local business scene amidst Bali’s breathtaking natural backdrop. Whether you’re a dedicated beer enthusiast or simply seeking a fresh and exciting adventure in Bali, trying craft beer is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Also read: Best Balinese Beer You Can Try and Where to Find It in Bali

Selection of Local Craft Beers Recommendation in Bali

Now you’re craving local craft beer to enjoy, aren’t you? Don’t worry, we will give you a selection of the best local craft beer in Bali from the Canard Brewing Co. Here are our 6 recommendations:

Kölsch

Kölsch, hailing from Cologne, Germany, is known for its crisp and refreshing flavor. This beer boasts a light body, a refreshing crispness, and a subtle touch of malt sweetness, all balanced with a mild hop bitterness. We highly recommend giving Canard’s Kölsch a try for a delightful tasting experience.

Canard’s Kölsch presents itself as a dry, crisp, and light beer with a clear, pale golden ale appearance and a subtle aroma. Upon taking a sip, you’ll immediately notice a well-balanced blend of malt, fruit, and hop flavors. It begins with a gentle hint of malt sweetness and finishes with a clean and rounded taste. It doesn’t overwhelm with bitterness, nor does it leave a lingering sweetness on your palate. While savoring this brew, you may even detect delightful notes reminiscent of malt grains and honey flowers, evoking the pleasant essence of sweet candy.

Session IPA

Session IPAs offer a lighter option compared to the bold flavors of traditional IPAs (India Pale Ale). In case you’re not familiar, IPAs are known for their strong and intense taste. Now, let us introduce you to Canard Session IPA.

Canard has skillfully created a Session IPA with a clear, amber appearance. What sets it apart is its lower alcohol content, making it ideal for laid-back, leisurely sipping. The Canard Session IPA stands out with its distinct hoppy and bitter notes, accompanied by a crisp and slightly caramel-malty undertone. This brew features a flavor profile that emphasizes hops, with hints of citrus, floral, stone fruit, and pine resin.

Strawberry Gose

When it comes to Strawberry Gose, the focus is on embracing lively strawberry flavors, resulting in a wonderfully fresh and fruity brew. For a delightful experience, we recommend trying Canard’s Strawberry Gose. This delightful beer has an alcohol content of 3.7% ABV when served in a can, and it boasts a medium body with plenty of effervescence. As you savor its delightful aroma, you’ll be greeted by a beautiful fusion of zesty coriander seeds and the invigorating scent of fresh strawberries.

What truly distinguishes Canard Strawberry Gose is its unique absence of noticeable bitterness. Instead, it achieves a fantastic balance by relying on its natural acidity rather than hops. This acidity plays a pivotal role in harmonizing the flavors of salt, malt, and yeast, creating a truly exceptional taste sensation. It’s worth noting that the freshness of this beer promises a wholly new and delightful drinking experience.

Porter

Porter beer is notable for its rich and well-balanced flavors. It is cherished for its dark and robust taste profile, often featuring a harmonious blend of roasted malts, chocolate, coffee, and caramel notes. This distinct combination makes it a preferred choice for those who appreciate depth and complexity in their beer, setting it apart in the realm of craft beer.

Canard’s Porter is a true representation of this timeless style. It appears as a black beer with a light body, delivering a full spectrum of savory flavors, including coffee, chocolate, toasty malt, and toffee aromas. What sets Canard’s Porter apart is its roasty bitterness, which adds a layer of complexity distinct from the sharpness of its hops. With a moderately high level of carbonation, it offers a fairly dry and clean finish.

Weizenbock

If you’re curious about trying a Weizenbock, consider exploring Canard Weizenbock. This particular brew pushes the boundaries of maltiness, creaminess, and rich aromas, including caramel and Maillard, a process that adds distinct browned flavors. It boasts a thick and long-lasting mousse-like texture with a light brown foam.

The roasted notes and hop bitterness contribute to the interplay of malt, yeast, and alcohol. As a Weizenbock matures, it develops subtle sherry-like esters, along with hints of dark grape, raisin, and fruit leather flavors, making it a complex and delightful choice for beer enthusiasts.

If you’re on the lookout for the finest craft beers from a brewery that prioritizes quality in Bali, consider giving Canard Brewing Co. a try. From the Strawberry Gose to the Session IPA, we offer the best of both worlds when it comes to brewing and ingredients. Visit Canard website to explore more.

If you’re a beer enthusiast, you’ve likely come across sour beer or maybe even tried your hand at brewing it. This distinctive type of beer has garnered a following among both experienced beer aficionados and newcomers, drawing people in with its tangy taste and enticing aroma, even appealing to those who aren’t typically beer fans.

Key Takeaways

• Sour beer is a beer that encompasses a wide category, consisting of various substyles that pay particular attention to the level of acidity that a drinker can detect.
• Sour beer gets its sour taste from specific types of bacteria.

Sour beers are notoriously challenging to produce and demand a lengthy aging process, which can deter some brewers from taking on the task. Nonetheless, those who do venture into making sour beers, as well as those who sell them, are rewarded with the opportunity to offer these bold and delightful brews to their customers.

Beer enthusiasts appreciate the intricate layers of flavors present in sour beers, while non-beer drinkers are drawn to the fact that sour beers don’t quite taste like the typical beer. While sour beers used to be hard to come by, they’ve become increasingly accessible in recent times.

In this article, we will delve deeper into the world of sour beer, exploring what it is, its historical background, and the intricate process of crafting these unique brews.

What is Sour Beer?

Sour beer holds the title of being the oldest type of beer in history. In the past, almost all beer had a bit of sourness to it before the full understanding of pasteurization and sterilization techniques.

Sour beer is a type of beer that encompasses a wide category, consisting of various substyles that pay particular attention to the level of acidity that a drinker can detect. When this tartness is subtle, it can offer a truly refreshing experience. On the other hand, some sour beers can be quite intense, causing your cheeks to pucker and your eyes to squint. Craft brewers create a diverse array of sour beers, ensuring that you’re likely to find a type that suits your taste preferences.

Sour beers come in a diverse range of styles, spanning from intensely sour to earthly funky to light and fruity. Some of the most renowned sour beers hail from Belgium, where they are often aged in oak barrels, allowing the beer to breathe and fostering the development of various microorganisms.

What Makes Sour in the Sour Beer

So, what makes sour beer sour? Sour beer gets its sour taste from specific types of bacteria, while yeast contributes the funky and earthy qualities. In today’s sour beers, two main types of bacteria and one type of wild yeast play a significant role in shaping the flavor.

The first is lactobacillus, a bacteria that transforms sugars into lactic acid. This is the same acid that gives yogurt its slightly sour taste and causes muscles to feel sore after exercising. The second is pediococcus, a bacteria from the same family as lactobacillus, often utilized in Belgian beers to introduce acidity. Pediococcus can function without oxygen, and the acidity in the beer increases the longer it remains. With time, pediococcus can also generate diacetyl, a compound that imparts a buttery flavor.

The wild yeast found in sour beers is called Brettanomyces, unlike the yeast strains responsible for producing ales or lagers, Brettanomyces has a reputation for potentially ruining beer. At its worst, Brett can introduce undesirable flavors and aromas resembling poopy or Band-Aids. However, at its best, it can contribute a balancing layer of earthiness to the beer.

While all of these bacteria consume sugar like regular brewing yeast, their production of lactic and acetic acids cannot be replicated by typical yeast strains. Some brewers also add fruit during the aging process to enhance the flavor, stimulate secondary fermentation, or incorporate microbes naturally present on the fruit’s skin.

Although sour are classified as “beer,” they differ significantly from other types of beer. Typically, sour beers do not utilize the traditional brewer’s yeasts, such as saccharomyces cerevisiae, and many are not produced in a completely sterile environment. Numerous Belgian brewers intentionally welcome wild yeast and bacteria to permeate their sour brews by cooling their wort (the unfermented beer) outdoors.

Moreover, while the majority of beers are aged in metal fermentation tanks, sours are commonly aged in wooden vessels, allowing communities of organisms to thrive within the beer. Interestingly, it took nearly a decade for the initial sour beer enthusiasts to realize that the sour taste was intentional and not a mistake on the part of the brewer.

Also read: The Most Popular German Beer (Beer Jerman) Styles in the World

History and the Origin of the Sour Beer

Sour beers boast a rich historical background and are regarded as the predecessors of many contemporary beer varieties. Here are some key points to keep in mind about them.

The origins of beer brewing and consumption can be dated back to approximately 4,000 B.C., during a time when all beers were essentially sour. During this period, various naturally occurring bacteria, including lactobacillus (also known as “sour milk bacteria”), were present in beer. These living organisms, often referred to as “bugs,” inhabited the beer throughout the fermentation process, resulting in a sour or funky flavor.

The earliest sour beers were crafted in Belgium in the early 18th century, and some breweries in Flanders, northern Belgium, have been in operation for several centuries. Following the Civil War, numerous Belgian and German immigrants introduced sour beer to the United States, yet this style remained relatively hard to come by in America until the 1970s.

With the advancements and increased prevalence of refrigeration and pasteurization technologies in the mid-19th century, sour beers largely disappeared as lagers and ales took center stage. However, since the 1970s, sour beers have experienced a surge in popularity among beer enthusiasts worldwide.

Types of the Beer in Sour Beer

Sours come in various styles, and here are a few examples:

Berliner Weisse

First up is Berliner Weisse, hailing from Northern Germany. This style is characterized by its dry and tangy wheat beer taste, featuring a low alcohol by volume (ABV) and lively carbonation, making it effortlessly drinkable. Certain variations of Berliner Weisse include the use of Brettanomyces yeast, while others focus on lactic acid bacteria.

Gose

Goses originate from Goslar, Germany, and typically involve the addition of coriander and salt during the brewing phase. Goses offer a diverse range of flavors, but they consistently maintain a harmonious blend of salty, herbaceous, and sour notes.

American Wild Ale

This is a catch-all category for sour beers originating in America. Craft brewers often create their version of sour beers using a combination of ale yeast and Brettanomyces yeast. Apart from the distinct sour taste and wild yeast presence, American wild ales generally do not adhere to strict rules that dictate the style.

Also read: Wheat Beer is A Classic Type of Beer. Discover More About it Here

You Can Enjoy Different Style of Gose at Canard

Do you want to try different kinds of Gose? Try Strawberry Gose from Canard! At Canard, we love our Goses. That’s why the Canard Strawberry Gose we brewed stands as a testament to a feeling of our deep affection for this extraordinary sour beer.

As you take in its delightful aroma, you’ll encounter the harmonious fusion of citrusy coriander seeds and the invigorating essence of ripe strawberries. It’s a true celebration of flavors that’s sure to captivate your senses.

Canard Strawberry Gose has an alcohol content of 3.7% ABV in a can, with a moderate body and high carbonation. The bitterness of Canard Strawberry Gose is not detectable. What sets this beer apart is its remarkable ability to achieve a harmonious balance, relying on its inherent natural acidity rather than hops. This acidity plays a pivotal role in counterbalancing the flavors of salt, malt, and yeast, creating a symphony of taste that’s truly exceptional.

Unleash the flavor and experience the sourness and freshness of Canard Strawberry Gose. Feel free to check our website here to find the best Strawberry Gose from Canard Brewing Co.