Best Places To Buy Red Stripe Beer

Red Stripe is a Jamaican lager that has been available since 1928. It is currently a subsidiary of Heineken, one of the largest beverage and alcohol conglomerates. The lager is available in Jamaica, the US, Canada, the UK, and Europe. In the US, it is available in bottles imported from Jamaica and cans and kegs from the Netherlands. In 2012, the beer was briefly brewed in the US, but it returned to being brewed in Jamaica in 2016.

In the US

Red Stripe was first imported to the United States in 1985, but it initially struggled to gain traction due to its packaging, which differed from the distinctive squat brown bottle and painted label that American consumers expected from their travels to Jamaica or as expatriates. This issue was eventually resolved, but shipments were temporarily suspended in 1989 due to cannabis smuggling discovered in shipping containers in the Port of Miami.

Since then, Red Stripe has recovered and gained popularity in the US, particularly in the early 1990s, riding on the coattails of dancehall and reggae music. It has also sponsored various music events, such as the annual Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay.

In 2009, Diageo introduced canned Red Stripe, brewed under contract by Moosehead in New Brunswick, to the United States market. In 2012, Diageo moved production of the US supply of Red Stripe from Jamaica to the US, specifically to the Latrobe Brewing Company facility in Pennsylvania, and City Brewing Co. of La Crosse, Wisconsin. However, due to a lack of consumer acceptance of US-brewed Red Stripe, the company returned brewing operations to Jamaica in 2016.

Today, Red Stripe is still imported to the US from Jamaica in bottles, and from the Netherlands in kegs and cans. It can be found in various states, including Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, California, Mississippi, Arkansas, Texas, Ohio, Nevada, Maine, Connecticut, and Arizona.

In Jamaica

Red Stripe is an iconic Jamaican beer with a distinct amber lager style and a fresh, clean taste. It is produced by Desnoes & Geddes, a subsidiary of Heineken, and has been a staple in Jamaica since it was first introduced in 1928.

The brand is deeply ingrained in Jamaican culture and is often used to celebrate significant events, such as Jamaica's independence from Britain. Red Stripe is also a prominent sponsor of various sporting and cultural events in Jamaica, including the annual Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay and the Jamaica national bobsled team.

In addition to its ubiquitous presence in bars and restaurants, Red Stripe can also be purchased at local markets, liquor stores, and supermarkets in Jamaica. It is typically sold in its distinctive stubby bottles or cans, making it convenient for consumers to enjoy at home or on the go.

While Red Stripe remains the most popular beer in Jamaica, there is a growing appreciation for stouts and darker ales on the island. Dragon Stout, also produced by Desnoes & Geddes, is a popular choice for those seeking a bolder and more robust flavor profile.

In the UK

Red Stripe is a Jamaican lager with a refreshing taste, balancing malty-sweet and lightly hoppy flavours. It is moderate in body, bitterness, and hop aroma and has a low butterscotch flavour.

Red Stripe has been available in the UK since 1976 and was initially brewed under license by Charles Wells until 2014. It has been a popular drink at the Notting Hill Carnival since 1976 and has sponsored music events such as the Camden Crawl and The Great Escape festivals.

Red Stripe is currently owned by Heineken, which acquired the brand in 2015, and it continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a taste of Jamaica in the UK.

In Canada

Red Stripe is a Jamaican lager with 4.7% ABV. It is brewed by Desnoes & Geddes, which is now a subsidiary of Heineken. The beer is known for its iconic stubby bottles and has been internationally recognized.

In 2015, Heineken USA purchased the brand and announced that all brewing operations would return to Jamaica. This shift may have impacted the availability of Red Stripe in Canada, with some stores experiencing stockouts. However, as of October 2024, the LCBO website still lists Red Stripe as available for purchase, both in-store and online.

When purchasing Red Stripe in Canada, consumers can expect to find the beer in its distinctive packaging, featuring a bright gold colour and a creamy head. The aroma and flavour profiles include grassy hops, cereal, malt, citrus, and yeasty notes, delivering an off-dry, light-bodied, crisp, and clean drinking experience.

In summary, Canadians can find Red Stripe in select liquor stores, including the LCBO, which offers convenient online ordering and in-store pickup options. The availability may vary, so checking with local retailers or the LCBO website is recommended to ensure a steady supply of this internationally-acclaimed Jamaican lager.

In the EU

Red Stripe Jamaican Lager is available in many countries in the EU, including the United Kingdom, Austria, Switzerland, and Spain.

In the United Kingdom, Red Stripe can be purchased from Beers of Europe, an online store and shop based on the outskirts of King's Lynn, Norfolk. Beers of Europe offers free delivery on orders over £100.

In Austria, Red Stripe is available at Julius Meinl am Graben in Vienna.

In Switzerland, Red Stripe can be found at various locations, including in Basel-Stadt, Lucerne, and Freidorf.

In Spain, Red Stripe is available at 15 shops, according to the website Birrapedia.

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