Buying European Beer In America: A Guide

Beer enthusiasts in the US have it relatively easy when it comes to trying European beers. While American beer is gaining popularity in Europe, with the likes of Stone Brewing leading the way, there are already several European beers that are widely available in the US. These include Stella Artois, Heineken, Newcastle Brown Ale, Pilsner Urquell, Leffe, Hoegarden, and Kronenborg, to name a few. However, it's worth noting that some of these European beers are considered more mainstream and may not be as well-regarded as the craft beers produced by small, independent breweries. For those seeking more unique European beers, specialty beer stores or online retailers may offer a wider selection, although availability can vary depending on the state and region.

Where to buy European beer in America

If you're looking to buy European beer in America, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, you can try specialty beverage stores or supermarkets that offer a wide range of imported beers. These stores often have a dedicated section for international or European beers. Look for stores that advertise a large selection of craft beers, as they are more likely to carry European options.

Another option is to explore online retailers. Websites such as Total Wine & More offer a variety of import beers that can be purchased online and delivered directly to your doorstep. This can be a convenient way to browse through a diverse range of European beers without having to leave your home.

When it comes to specific European beers, you may find that certain brands are more widely available in the US than others. For example, beers like Heineken, Stella Artois, Corona, and Guinness can often be found in many American stores. However, if you're looking for something more unique or less mainstream, you may need to explore specialty beer stores or websites that cater to international selections.

Additionally, it's worth noting that the availability of European beers can vary across different states and regions in America. For instance, a user from Michigan mentions that they were able to find European beers like Stella, Heineken, Newcastle Brown Ale, and Pilsner Urquell in their state. On the other hand, another user mentions that they found a wider range of European beers in New York, including Leffe, Hoegarden, Kronenborg, and Frogbeer.

Lastly, if you're specifically interested in German or Belgian beers, there are a few recommendations from European users that you could look out for. German beers like Schöfferhofer, Erdinger, Paulaner, Julius Echter, and Warsteiner may be available at specialty beverage centers. As for Belgian beers, you could keep an eye out for La Chouffe, Chimay, Brugse Zot, Leffe, Grimbergen, or Affligem.

European beer brands available in America

European beers are widely available in America, with Dutch beer Heineken ranked as the most popular beer in the country in 2019. Heineken narrowly beat Irish beer Guinness to the top spot, with Mexican beer Corona in third place.

Other European beers that are available in America include:

• Stella Artois
• Newcastle Brown Ale
• Pilsner Urquell
• Leffe
• Hoegarden
• Kronenbourg
• Frogbeer
• Trappist Rochefort 10
• Spaten Optimator
• Schöfferhofer
• Erdinger
• Paulaner
• Julius Echter (Würzburger Hofbräu)
• Ayinger's Bräu Weisse
• Young's Double Chocolate Stout
• Weihenstephaner
• Grolsch Kanon
• Schlenkerla
• Quöllfrisch
• Stuttgarter Hofbräu
• Samuel Adams
• Budweiser
• Coors
• Blue Moon
• MillerCoors’ Blue Moon
• Radeberger
• Dogfish Head
• Milwaukee’s Best
• Modelo
• Negra
• Especial
• Abita
• Brieux Carre
• Sierra Nevada Pale Ale
• Trumer
• Moonlight
• Tahoe Pilz
• Old Caz
• Prost
• Paulner
• Ayinger Celebrator
• Black Butte Porter
• Stouts/Porters
• Live Oak
• North Coast Brewing Scrimshaw
• Mickey's malt liquor
• North Coast Brewing Scrimshaw
• Mickey's malt liquor
• Modelo Especial
• Bitburger
• Evil Twin
• Peroni
• Brew Dog
• Sam Smith's
• Oatmeal Stout
• ESB
• Gulpener
• Ommegang
• Three Philosophers
• Mikkeller
• Brewdog
• Chimay
• Grimbergen
• Affligem
• Leffe
• Triple Karmeliet
• Barbar
• La Chouffe
• Troubadour
• St. Feuillien
• Galway Hooker
• Orval
• Chimay
• Rochefort
• Westmalle
• Trappe
• Aachel
• Duvel
• Grimbergen
• Triple Karmeliet
• Barbar
• Belgian blondes: La Chouffe
• Cuvée des Trolls
• Troubadour
• St. Feuillien.

Shipping European beer to America

Shipping beer internationally can be a complex process due to varying regulations and restrictions. When shipping European beer to America, there are several factors and guidelines to consider to ensure compliance and safe delivery. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you through the process:

Understanding Shipping Regulations

Before initiating the shipping process, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the regulations and restrictions governing the shipment of alcoholic beverages, including beer. These regulations differ between countries and courier companies. Most courier companies classify alcoholic drinks as restricted or prohibited items, and shipping them may be done at your own risk. Therefore, thoroughly researching the rules applicable to the specific countries of collection and delivery is essential.

Choosing a Courier Service

Not all courier companies are equal when it comes to shipping beer. Some well-known companies, such as DHL, FedEx, TNT, and UPS, have policies against shipping packages that contain beer. Thus, it is advisable to consult with the designated courier company for your intended route to clarify their specific rules and requirements.

Packing Beer for Shipping

To ensure the safe delivery of your European beer to America, proper packing is essential. Here are some detailed instructions for packing beer bottles and cans:

• Pack Individual Bottles or Cans: Place each beer bottle or can in a hermetic plastic bag and then wrap it with bubble wrap or foam sheets for added protection.
• Six-Pack or Multipack: If shipping a six-pack or a multipack, cover the entire pack in several layers of bubble wrap.
• Combining Bottles with Other Items: When including bottles with other items in the box, fill the empty spaces between the bottles with those items to provide extra cushioning and protection.
• Sealing and Labelling the Box: Close the box securely and seal all edges and corners with adhesive tape. Label the box as "fragile" when shipping glass bottles to alert handlers.

Shipping Costs and Considerations

The cost of shipping beer internationally varies depending on several factors, including the distance between the pick-up and delivery destinations, the weight and size of the shipment, and the urgency of delivery. Generally, shipping costs can be high, and it may be more cost-effective to purchase European beer from an online store based in America, assuming it is available.

In conclusion, shipping European beer to America requires careful consideration of regulations, the choice of courier service, proper packing, and an understanding of the associated costs. By following these guidelines, you can navigate the complexities of international beer shipping and ensure a safe and compliant delivery.

American craft beer vs European beer

American craft beer and European beer have distinct characteristics that set them apart and appeal to different drinkers. Here is a detailed comparison between the two:

History and Tradition:

European beers are deeply rooted in history and tradition, with centuries-old brewing techniques that vary across different regions. Beer in Europe originated from ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Romans, who used it for rituals and offerings. Each country in Europe has its own unique styles, such as German lagers, Belgian ales, and British real ales. In contrast, American beer culture was disrupted by Prohibition in the 1920s, which left only a few large companies producing similar light lager-type beers. However, American craft beer has experienced a revival in recent years, with an increasing number of microbreweries experimenting with different styles.

Types and Styles:

European beers offer a wider range of traditional styles, including Belgian Trappist ales, German lagers, and British real ales. American craft beers, on the other hand, are known for their innovation and experimentation. The most popular American beers are light lagers, but the craft beer movement has introduced a variety of styles like IPAs, stouts, and sour beers. American craft beers are also known for their strong hop flavors and aromas, while European beers tend to emphasize malt flavors.

Strength:

European beers typically have a higher alcohol content than American beers. European beers usually range from 4-16% ABV, while American beers generally fall between 3-9% ABV. However, it's important to note that the ABV can vary depending on the specific style of beer. For example, some American IPAs can have a higher ABV than certain German lagers.

Carbonation:

American beers are often highly carbonated, while European beers vary in carbonation levels. German and Czech beers are known for their large foam heads, while British brown ales tend to be less carbonated.

Culture:

Beer is deeply ingrained in European culture, with longstanding traditions and local styles. European countries like Germany and Belgium celebrate their beers with festivals like Oktoberfest. American beer culture, on the other hand, is more focused on pushing boundaries and trying new styles. The modern American craft beer movement values innovation and experimentation, and it has gained a global following, influencing beer cultures around the world.

European beer prices in America

When purchasing European beer in America, it's important to consider the different pack sizes and bottle or can volumes offered. Some retailers may also provide discounts or deals when purchasing in bulk or as part of a variety pack. Additionally, the availability of specific European beer brands and varieties may vary across different retailers and locations in America.

The price of European beer in America can also be influenced by the reputation and popularity of the brand. Well-known brands such as Heineken, Stella Artois, and Carlsberg may have slightly higher prices compared to lesser-known European beer options. Additionally, specialty or limited-edition beers from Europe may command a higher price due to their exclusivity or unique characteristics.

It's worth noting that European beer prices in America may fluctuate over time due to changes in exchange rates, import duties, or market demands. Certain times of the year, such as holidays or special promotions, can also impact the pricing of European beer in America.

To summarize, the cost of European beer in America can vary depending on brand recognition, pack size, retailer, location, and market dynamics. It's always a good idea to compare prices from multiple retailers and keep an eye out for promotions or discounts when purchasing European beer in America.

Frequently asked questions