Phuket's Beer Scene: Where To Buy And What To Try

Thailand's first regional beer, Phuket Beer, was launched in 2002 as a premium beer, associating itself with the lifestyle of Phuket, a Thai beach resort. Brewed with premium German hops and high-quality Thai jasmine rice, it is the first Thai beer to win a gold medal in competition. It has no additives or preservatives and is produced in small batches every two to three months. It is 5% alcohol-by-volume (AVB) and has 21 international bitterness units (IBU).

There are also three main local Thai beers: Leo, Chang, and Singha, all available in small and large cans or bottles (330ml & 640ml). Other commonly found beers in Thailand are San Miguel, Tiger, Heineken, and Beer Lao.

Local Thai beers: Leo, Chang, and Singha

There are three main local Thai beers available in Phuket: Leo, Chang, and Singha. All three are available in small and large cans or bottles (330ml & 640ml).

Singha

The first beer produced in Thailand, Singha is one of the country's most popular beers and has been brewed by the Boon Rawd Brewery since 1933. The name "Singha" comes from the Sanskrit word for "lion", and you'll see the white label featuring a mythological lion in almost every bar or restaurant in Thailand. Singha is also the best-known Thai beer outside of the country and is exported widely. The lager version has an alcohol content of 5%, but a lighter 3.5% version is also available. Singha is often slightly more expensive than other Thai beers, so it is mainly drunk by high-earning Thais and tourists.

Chang

Chang (meaning "elephant" in Thai) was launched in 1995 by Thai Beverage (ThaiBev), one of the largest beverage companies in Southeast Asia. It is available nationwide and is known for its logo featuring two elephants facing each other. Chang is brewed from rice and has a more tart taste than Singha. The classic version has an alcohol content of 5.2% and it is currently the second most consumed beer in Thailand, taking approximately 33% of the local beer market. Chang is likely the most popular beer for tourists visiting Thailand, and it is usually the cheapest of the Thai beer brands on offer.

Leo

Currently the most admired beer in Thailand, occupying about half of the local beer market, Leo is also brewed by the Boon Rawd Brewery, the same brewery that owns Singha. The word "Leo" comes from the Greek word for "lion". The label on the bottle, however, features a leopard. This beer has an alcohol content of 5% and a taste very similar to Singha, but at a lower price. Leo is also served as a draft beer in pubs.

Phuket Beer

Phuket Lager Beer, formerly known as Phuket Island Beer, is another option if you're looking for authentic regional flavours. Brewed with premium German hops and high-quality Thai jasmine rice, it has a smooth and aromatic flavour. It has won several awards, including a gold medal in 2006 from the Monde Selection Awards.

Beer brewed in Phuket: Phuket Lager Beer

Phuket is known for its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife, and what better way to enjoy this tropical paradise than with a refreshing beer in hand? One of the most iconic beers brewed in Phuket is the Phuket Lager Beer, also known as Phuket Beer.

A Premium Beer

Phuket Lager Beer was launched in 2002 as a premium beer, reflecting the laid-back and luxurious lifestyle of Phuket, a renowned Thai beach resort. The beer is crafted with premium German hops and high-quality Thai jasmine rice, adding a smooth and aromatic touch to the brew. It is brewed and bottled at the San Miguel Brewery in Thailand and the Phnom Penh Brewery in Cambodia, under the watchful eye of the Tropical Beverage Corporation Company Limited (TROPBEVCO).

Awards and Recognition

Phuket Lager Beer made history in 2006 by becoming the first Thai beer to receive a gold medal at the prestigious Monde Selection Awards. This achievement put Thai beer on the global map and solidified Phuket Lager Beer's reputation for excellence. The beer continued its award-winning streak by clinching gold medals consecutively from 2007 to 2010 at the same awards, a testament to its consistent quality.

No Additives or Preservatives

One of the unique characteristics of Phuket Lager Beer is its commitment to purity and natural ingredients. The beer contains no additives or preservatives, ensuring that drinkers experience the true, unadulterated flavor of the brew. It is produced in small batches every two to three months, maintaining its freshness and quality.

Availability and Packaging

Phuket Lager Beer is widely available in Thailand and has also made its way overseas through distribution by Import & Export LR, France. Beer enthusiasts can enjoy this tropical brew in 640 ml and 330 ml bottles, as well as 330 ml cans. The packaging features a distinctive logo, showcasing a hornbill bird, the company's mascot, along with a neck foil design of Laem Promthep, a famous landmark on Phuket Island.

So, if you're planning a trip to Phuket or simply want to experience a taste of this tropical paradise, be sure to try Phuket Lager Beer. It's a refreshing, award-winning brew that perfectly captures the essence of Phuket's laid-back and luxurious lifestyle.

Beer brewed in Thailand: Archa, Cheers, and My Beer

When in Phuket, you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to beer. The island's popularity has led to a wide variety of beers being available, including those brewed in Thailand. Here's a guide to three Thai beers: Archa, Cheers, and My Beer.

Archa Beer

Archa Beer is a popular choice in Phuket, as evidenced by the many check-ins on Untappd. It is crafted from fine-quality malt, rice, and hops, with natural water and selected yeast. It has a typical adjunct lager profile, with a light golden colour and a frothy head. Some drinkers find it a little too fizzy, but it's a great option to cool down with after a day at the beach.

Cheers Beer

Cheers Beer has been around since 1996 and is brewed by the Thai Asia Pacific Brewery Company Limited. It's an American Adjunct Lager, with a light lager flavour and decent carbonation. While it may not be the most impressive brew, it's certainly not horrible, especially for the price. You can find it in 7-11 stores across Thailand.

My Beer

My Beer is a Thai lager with a unique marketing campaign centred around the idea of making your own choices. While there is limited information about the beer itself, it has gained a following, with hashtags like #MYBEER and #ชีวิตสนุกทุกมิติ trending.

So, when in Phuket, be sure to try these three locally brewed beers and discover the unique flavours that Thailand has to offer!

International beer brands: Tiger, Heineken, and Carlsberg

When it comes to international beer brands available in Phuket, Tiger, Heineken, and Carlsberg are some of the well-known options. These beers are widely recognised and can be found in various establishments on the island.

Tiger Beer, a brand originating from Singapore, has a strong presence in Phuket. It is a light lager beer with an alcohol volume of 5.0% ABV. Tiger Beer has been brewed since 1932 and has won multiple awards, including gold medals in the "International-Style Lager" and "European Style Pilsner" categories at the World Beer Cup. It is brewed in Thailand by the Thai Asia Pacific Brewery, which also produces Heineken. Tiger Beer is widely available in Phuket and is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.

Heineken is another international favourite that can be found in Phuket. Brewed in Thailand by the Thai Asia Pacific Brewery since 1995, Heineken is a well-known Dutch beer with a crisp and refreshing taste. It has been a popular choice worldwide and is often associated with social gatherings and good times. Heineken is readily available in various bars, restaurants, and stores across Phuket.

Carlsberg is also available in Phuket, although its presence may not be as prominent as Tiger or Heineken. Carlsberg, a Danish beer brand, has established itself globally and is known for its smooth and refreshing taste. The brand has a partnership with Thai Beverages, allowing its beer to be distributed and enjoyed in Phuket and across Thailand.

These international beer brands offer a familiar taste for those seeking a break from local Thai beers. Phuket offers a diverse range of beer options to cater to different preferences, and these international brands have found their place in the local market despite the Thai government's focus on supporting local breweries through import duties.

Supermarket prices for beer in Phuket

Thailand's three main local beers are Leo, Chang, and Singha, which are available in small and large cans or bottles (330ml and 640ml). These can be purchased from most supermarkets and convenience stores. Other commonly found beers in Thailand include San Miguel, Tiger, Heineken, and Beer Lao.

If you're looking for something different, Tops Market and Villa Market stock the widest range of beer and alcohol, including American, Belgian, British, German, and Japanese beers.

• A small 330ml bottle of Asahi or Budweiser costs around 45 THB.
• A large 650ml bottle of Hoegaarden Beer costs around 219 THB.
• A small bottle of local beer (Singha, Chang, or Leo) costs between 80 and 120 THB in a casual beach restaurant or bar, and around 40 THB in a 7/11.
• A small bottle in the supermarket can cost between 35 and 45 THB, while a big bottle will cost between 50 and 65 THB.
• A 500ml bottle of local beer is around 55 THB.
• A 0.5l (16oz) domestic beer costs around 55 THB.
• A small can of Chang beer (330ml) costs between 33 and 35 THB.
• A small can of Leo beer (320ml) costs between 35 and 38 THB.
• A small bottle of Thai beer (320ml) in 7-Eleven costs around 40-50 THB.

Frequently asked questions