BHUTAN

From Red Rice to Red Panda

Bhutan has a growing beer culture, with several locally brewed products that have gained popularity both within the country and among visitors. The most prominent beer brand is Red Rice Lager, produced by Bhutan Brewery. Made from Bhutanese red rice, this lager has a distinct flavor that reflects the local terroir and has become a favorite among both locals and tourists.

Another popular beer is Druk 11000, a strong lager widely consumed across the country. Known for its high alcohol content and robust flavor, Druk 11000 has established itself as a staple in Bhutan’s beer offerings.

Red Panda is another well-known beer, celebrated as Bhutan’s first craft beer. This unfiltered wheat beer, brewed in Bumthang by Namgay Artisanal Brewery, is crafted using traditional methods with a focus on local ingredients. Its cloudy appearance and rich, smooth flavor, with subtle hints of fruit and spice, make it a refreshing choice, especially popular among those visiting the Bumthang Valley.

The rise of craft beer in Bhutan is also noteworthy, with small breweries like Serbhum Brewery producing unique craft beers that appeal to a niche market. These craft beers are often enjoyed by tourists as part of their cultural experience in Bhutan.

Other notable beers include:

• Druk Lager: A lighter, sessionable beer with a crisp and clean taste, widely available throughout the country.
• Druk Supreme: A premium lager with a slightly stronger and richer flavor than Druk Lager, offering a smooth, well-balanced drinking experience.
• Thunder 15000: A strong beer from the Army Welfare Project, known for its higher alcohol content and bold taste.

Beer in Bhutan is not just a beverage, but also part of the social fabric, enjoyed during festivals, celebrations and casual gatherings. These diverse beer products reflect the richness of Bhutan’s beer culture, ranging from traditional lagers to artisanal craft beers, each offering a unique taste of the country.

Trashi Delek!

Photo Credit: www.unusualtraveler.com