Discovering Down Under Delights: Where to Buy Australian Beer in Denver
G’day, Denver! If you’re craving a taste of the Land Down Under, whether it’s the crisp lager you enjoyed on a Bondi beach or a robust ale that reminds you of the Outback, you’re in luck. Denver’s vibrant craft beer scene, while heavily dominated by local Colorado brews, also offers surprising pockets of international flavor. Finding authentic Australian beer might require a little digging, but with this guide, you’ll be sipping on a VB, a Coopers, or even a craft Aussie brew in no time. As a local who’s explored every corner of our Mile High City’s beverage landscape, I’ve got the inside scoop on where to find those golden cans and bottles.
The Rise of Australian Craft Beer and How It Reaches Denver
Australian beer culture is as diverse as its landscape, ranging from iconic mainstream lagers to a rapidly growing craft beer movement. Think breweries like Stone & Wood, Balter, and Colonial Brewing Co., pushing boundaries with unique ingredients and styles. Getting these brews to landlocked Denver involves a dedicated network of importers and distributors who understand the value of bringing global flavors to our doorstep. Companies specializing in international craft beer are crucial here, and thankfully, some are making sure Denver gets its share. For those passionate about discovering these imports, resources like Dropt are invaluable, providing insights into the availability and origins of beers from around the world, including Australia.
Specialty Beer Stores: Your First Stop for Australian Brews
When the craving strikes for something specifically Australian, your best bet is to head to Denver’s dedicated craft beer and bottle shops. These aren’t your average liquor stores; they are curated havens for beer enthusiasts, often featuring a rotating selection of imported gems.
Malt & Vine
Located in the trendy Highlands neighborhood, Malt & Vine is a cornerstone of Denver’s craft beer community. Their selection is meticulously curated, and they often have a surprisingly robust international section. While their stock changes frequently, I’ve found fantastic Australian craft beers here on multiple occasions, often from smaller, lesser-known Aussie breweries. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about beer, so don’t hesitate to ask them if they have any Australian imports in stock or if they expect any soon. They pride themselves on sourcing unique and hard-to-find beverages.
The Cranelli’s Italian Market & Bottle Shop
While known for its Italian imports, Cranelli’s in Greenwood Village (a close suburb with easy access from Denver) often surprises with its diverse beer selection. They sometimes carry popular Australian lagers and occasionally venture into craft imports. It’s worth a call or a visit if you’re in the area. They cater to a discerning clientele who appreciate quality and authenticity, so you might just find that perfect Aussie beer hiding on their shelves.
Mondo Vino
Another excellent bottle shop, Mondo Vino, located in the Berkeley neighborhood, boasts an impressive array of beers from around the globe. They are known for their adventurous selections, so it’s a prime candidate for stocking Australian beers. Their knowledgeable staff can guide you through their international offerings, and they are always keen to bring in new and exciting products based on customer interest.
Craft Beer Bars and Restaurants: Sip on Arrival
Sometimes, you don’t want to buy a whole six-pack; you just want to sample a specific Australian brew. In these cases, Denver’s craft beer bars and restaurants with extensive tap lists are your destination. These establishments often work with specialized distributors to offer rotating international taps.
Euclid Hall Bar & Kitchen
Euclid Hall, situated in the heart of Denver, is renowned for its extensive beer list and its dedication to offering a diverse range of global brews. While they feature a lot of American craft, their import selection is always noteworthy. Keep an eye on their tap list, especially during special events or beer festivals, as they occasionally feature Australian beers. Their knowledgeable servers can often provide tasting notes and background on the beers they serve.
Hops & Pie
This beloved pizza joint in the RiNo (River North Art District) art district is more than just great pizza; it’s a beer lover’s paradise. Hops & Pie boasts an ever-changing tap list that often includes rare and international finds. They have a strong connection with distributors and a keen eye for unique offerings. It’s a great place to ask if they’ve had any Australian beers on tap recently or if any are planned.
LowDown Denver (formerly LowDown Brewery]
While LowDown is primarily known for its own excellent brews, they are also a hub for beer culture and often feature guest taps from breweries near and far. It’s worth checking their current tap list for any surprise international inclusions. Their commitment to quality and variety makes them a place where you might stumble upon an unexpected Aussie gem.
Online Retailers and Delivery Services: Convenience at Your Fingertips
In today’s digital age, buying beer online has become increasingly popular and convenient. For those looking to buy Australian beer in Denver, online options can be a lifesaver, especially if local stores have limited stock. Some online retailers even specialize in international craft beers and can ship directly to your door.
Dropt: Your Digital Gateway to Global Beers
This is where Dropt truly shines. Their platform is designed to connect beer lovers with an incredible selection of beers from around the world, including Australia. You can explore their offerings, see what’s available, and often arrange for delivery right here in Denver. Their shop section is regularly updated with new and exciting finds, making it a fantastic resource for tracking down specific Australian brands or discovering new ones. Beyond just purchasing, their insights and news blog often features articles on international beer trends and specific breweries, which can help you learn more about the Australian craft beer scene before you even buy.
Local Delivery Services with Wider Selections
Keep an eye on local Denver-based alcohol delivery services. While their primary focus might be on more common selections, they sometimes partner with distributors who can bring in specialized international products. It’s always worth checking their apps or websites for updates, and some allow you to place special requests.
Tips for the Savvy Australian Beer Hunter in Denver
- Call Ahead: Before making a special trip, especially to smaller bottle shops, give them a call to check their current stock. Australian beers can be particularly niche, and inventory changes rapidly.
- Join Beer Groups: Denver has a thriving online and offline craft beer community. Local Facebook groups or Reddit forums (like r/denverbeer) are excellent places to ask for recommendations or to hear about recent sightings of Australian beers.
- Follow Breweries and Bottle Shops on Social Media: Many local shops and bars announce new arrivals and special tappings on platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Following your favorites is a great way to stay informed.
- Attend Beer Festivals: Denver hosts numerous beer festivals throughout the year. These are fantastic opportunities to sample a wide array of beers, including international ones, and to chat directly with brewery representatives or distributors.
- Ask for Recommendations: Don’t be afraid to engage with bartenders and shop staff. They are often passionate beer enthusiasts themselves and can offer invaluable advice and point you in the right direction.
- Be Open to Discovery: While you might be looking for a specific Australian beer, be open to trying other Australian craft brews that might be available. The Australian craft scene is innovative and exciting.
Understanding Australian Beer Styles
When you’re on the hunt, it helps to know what you’re looking for. Here are a few common styles and iconic brands you might encounter:
- Lagers: The most popular style in Australia. Think Foster’s (though its origin is debated by some Aussies!), VB (Victoria Bitter), and XXXX Gold. These are typically light, crisp, and sessionable, perfect for warm weather.
- Craft Ales: The Australian craft scene is booming. Look for Pale Ales, IPAs, and even stouts from breweries like Stone & Wood (Pacific Ale), Balter (IPA), Colonial Brewing Co. (Pale Ale), and Little Creatures (Pale Ale). These often showcase unique hop profiles and a higher quality finish than mass-produced lagers.
- Mid-Strength Beers: A popular category in Australia, offering lower alcohol content without sacrificing too much flavor.
Beyond the Beer: Embracing the Culture
Finding Australian beer in Denver is more than just a transaction; it’s an experience. It’s about connecting with a culture that values good times, good company, and good brews. Whether you’re celebrating a Broncos win or just enjoying a sunny Colorado afternoon, a taste of Australia can add a unique twist. Consider pairing your Australian beer with some classic pub fare or even trying to recreate some Australian dishes at home. The journey to finding your favorite Aussie drop in Denver is part of the adventure, and with the resources available, it’s a quest well worth undertaking. So, grab a pint, kick back, and enjoy a little slice of Australia right here in the Mile High City!
