Top 10 Best New Zealand Beers
The discussion of “What is the best New Zealand beer” has long been debated, many drinkers will stick to what they know and go for their favourite, whilst some will drink a variety and choose based on the science of taste.
It is hard to choose a winner for such a subjective topic however, we at New Zealand Daily have had a long hard conversation and decided upon what we believe are Aotearoa’s best brews.
Here are our top 10 New Zealand’s best beers.
- Tui
Starting strong with a staple and classic NZ beer, will people be shocked at the low ranking? Yes, but with a smooth, crisp and easy-to-drink taste, it does deserve at least a spot on the list but unfortunately, it does not beat out the others on the list.
- Behemoth Brain Smiles Hazy Pale Ale
The first crafty on the list and making its way from Dominion Road in Auckland the Brain Smiles Hazy Pale Ale packs a powerful and fruity punch.
Its hazy, creamy texture and refreshing finish make it an easy-drinking, perfect for someone who enjoys fruity beers.
- Steinlager Classic
On a similar note to the Tui, you can’t have an NZ beers list without the Steinlager Classic, many oldheads swear by this drop and in some cases you can’t fault them.
It is a clean, crisp lager with a light golden colour and a refreshing, slightly bitter taste.
- Lion Red
Another classic Kiwi brew managing to beat out the likes of Tui and the Steinlager Classic, the Lion Rouge as it is affectionately known offers a rich amber colour and a slightly sweet, biscuity malt flavour, balanced by a crisp finish that makes it easy to drink.
- Liberty Knife Party IPA
Another fruity-tasting crafty, the Liberty Knife Party IPA is a bold and hoppy beer with tropical fruit aroma featuring notes of pineapple, citrus, and mango.
Again another perfect brew if you enjoy a fruity and vibrant beer.
- Double Brown
A classical beer for those looking for a cost-effective drink, a staple for those wanting a classic no-frills sort of beverage.
known for its smooth, malty character and no-nonsense approach. It has a deep amber-brown colour with mild caramel and toasted malt flavours, balanced by a light bitterness and a slightly sweet finish.
- Mac’s Gold
One of the great Kiwi Lagers in my personal opinion, great for after a long day at work or just a couple of brews under the sun.
The Mac’s Gold is a crisp and refreshing drink with a light golden colour and a smooth, clean taste, making it an easy-drinking beer with a balanced and slightly floral flavour.
- Speights Gold Medal Ale
Here it is, we all know it was coming, the daddy or unc of beers, it was going to be here and now here it is.
A well-rounded, full-flavoured ale with a smooth malt profile. It has a rich, slightly sweet taste with biscuity malt flavours and subtle caramel notes. A beloved Kiwi drink that was once before been voted the most popular beer.
- Emersons Pilsner
Ever so slightly edging the Gold Medal Ale comes the Emerson’s Pilsner, it was a close battle between the Emersons and the Speights but the Pilsner manages to take it out.
The Emerson’s Pilsner is a crisp and refreshing lager with a bright, pale golden colour and a clean, balanced flavour, offering light, floral notes and a hint of grassiness.
It is known for its elegance and drinkability and is a great choice for those wanting a couple or those wanting to keep going throughout the day/night.
- Speights Summit Ultra
Here it is, the best beer in New Zealand, but was it a question, the Speights Summit Ultra descends from a long line of great beers, perfect for every occasion, whether it’s casual drinks, a bevvy with dinner or a big night on it, you cannot go wrong.
The Speights Summit Ultra is a light and crisp lager that is easy to drink. It has a clean malt profile with subtle sweetness, balanced by a mild hop bitterness that offers a refreshing floral finish.
