Discovering Down Under Flavors in the Golden State: Your Guide to Buying Australian Beer in Bakersfield
Bakersfield, California – a city known for its country music roots, oil industry, and agricultural heart. While you might not immediately associate it with the land Down Under, for the adventurous beer enthusiast, the quest for authentic Australian brews in Kern County is a surprisingly rewarding one. As a local who loves exploring the diverse culinary and beverage landscape of Bakersfield, I’ve made it my mission to uncover the best spots where you can snag a taste of Australia, right here at home. Forget the long flight; let’s embark on a local beer journey!
Why Australian Beer? The Allure of the Craft Down Under
Before we dive into where to find it, let’s talk about why Australian beer is gaining global recognition. Australian craft brewers are producing some incredibly innovative and high-quality beers. They often feature unique local hop varieties like Ella, Vic Secret, and Galaxy, which impart distinctive fruity and floral notes. From crisp lagers perfect for a warm Bakersfield evening to bold IPAs and rich stouts, there’s a diverse range to explore. These beers often reflect the Australian lifestyle: vibrant, refreshing, and perfect for sharing.
Navigating Bakersfield’s Beer Scene for Australian Gems
Bakersfield, while not a major international port, has a growing appreciation for craft beer. Local breweries are thriving, and many liquor stores and specialty shops are keen to offer a wider selection to cater to discerning palates. The key is knowing where to look. While you might not find a dedicated “Australian Beer Store” on every corner, strategic visits to the right establishments will yield fantastic results. I’ve scoured the city, spoken with shop owners, and tasted my way through the local offerings to bring you this insider’s guide.
The Top Spots to Buy Australian Beer in Bakersfield
Finding a truly curated selection of Australian beers requires a bit of detective work, but here are the places that consistently deliver or are known to stock a good variety:
1. Specialty Liquor Stores & Bottle Shops
These are your prime hunting grounds. They often dedicate shelf space to imported beers and are more likely to carry a rotating selection of Australian craft brews. Keep an eye on these:
- The Bottle Shop at The Padre Hotel: While primarily known for its exceptional whiskey and cocktail program, the adjacent bottle shop at the historic Padre Hotel often surprises with its well-curated selection of craft beers, including international options. It’s worth checking their cooler section regularly for any unique Australian finds. They pride themselves on quality, so you’re likely to find something special here. Located at 1702 18th St, Bakersfield, CA 93301.
- BevMo!: This well-known beverage superstore often has a decent international beer section. While its selection can vary, they are a good starting point. Look for brands like Coopers, Little Creatures, and Stone & Wood. Check their Bakersfield locations for availability. The store at 9130 Rosedale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93312, is a large one and a good bet.
- Local Independent Grocers with a Strong Beer Selection: Sometimes, smaller, locally owned grocery stores that focus on quality produce and a good wine/beer selection can be goldmines. I’ve found unexpected international beers at places like The Cheese Shop (though their focus is cheese, their beverage selection is surprisingly robust) or even some of the larger, more upscale independent markets in town. It’s always worth a quick peek in their beer aisle.
2. Craft Beer Bars with Extensive Bottle Lists
While the primary goal is to buy, some craft beer bars offer a fantastic retail selection to go. If they have a beer on tap from Australia that you love, it’s worth asking if they sell bottles or cans to take home. Some establishments are licensed for off-site sales of their bottled and canned inventory.
- Temblor Brewing Company: While Temblor focuses on its own excellent brews, they often have a diverse guest tap list and a well-stocked bottle and can cooler. It’s always worth asking if they have any Australian beers available for purchase to go. Their commitment to craft beer means they are often aware of interesting international offerings. Located at 3200 N St, Bakersfield, CA 93301.
- Bakersfield Beer Company: Similar to Temblor, this local favorite is dedicated to quality craft beer. While their focus is on their own creations, their appreciation for the craft means they might occasionally feature or stock imported Australian beers. Inquire about their to-go selection. Located at 900 R St, Bakersfield, CA 93301.
3. Online Retailers – Your Digital Gateway to Australian Brews
For the most comprehensive selection, especially if you’re looking for specific brands or limited releases, your best bet might be online. Several reputable online retailers specialize in craft beer and ship nationwide, including to Bakersfield. This is often the most reliable way to find a wide array of Australian beers.
- Dropt Beer: This is a fantastic platform that connects you with a vast selection of craft beers from breweries across the globe, including Australia. You can often find hard-to-get Australian lagers, pale ales, and IPAs. They are a great resource for discovering new breweries and styles. Their website is user-friendly, allowing you to filter by country of origin. Make sure to check out their shop for the latest offerings.
- Other National Online Beer Retailers: Websites like Hop Culture, Tavour, or even dedicated craft beer marketplaces often feature international selections. While shipping costs can add up, for rare finds or a curated tasting experience, it’s a worthwhile option. Always check their shipping policies for California.
Popular Australian Beer Brands to Look For
When you’re browsing, keep an eye out for these well-regarded Australian breweries and their signature beers:
- Coopers Brewery: A staple. Their Original Pale Ale is an iconic Australian beer, known for its distinctive bottle-conditioned yeast sediment. Coopers Sparkling Ale and Stout are also excellent choices.
- Little Creatures Brewing: Known for their vibrant, hoppy beers. Their Pale Ale is a benchmark, and their IPA is a must-try for hop lovers.
- Stone & Wood Brewing Co.: Based in Byron Bay, they focus on refreshing, approachable beers. Their Pacific Ale is a hugely popular and easy-drinking wheat beer.
- Balter Brewing Company: A newer but highly acclaimed brewery. Their XPA (Extra Pale Ale) is a fantastic, tropical-fruity beer.
- Others to Watch For: Look for beers from breweries like Feral Brewing Co., Pirate Life Brewing, and Gage Roads.
Insider Tips for the Bakersfield Beer Hunter
- Ask the Experts: Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with the staff at specialty liquor stores or bottle shops. They often have a passion for beer and can point you towards hidden gems or upcoming arrivals.
- Check Seasonal Releases: Many Australian breweries release special beers throughout the year. These might be limited editions or seasonal offerings, so keep an eye out.
- Join Local Beer Groups: Bakersfield has a growing craft beer community. Check Facebook or other social media platforms for local beer enthusiast groups. Members often share tips on where they’ve found rare beers.
- Embrace the Adventure: Sometimes, the best finds are unexpected. Be open to trying different styles and brands. You might discover a new favorite you never knew existed.
- Stay Updated with Dropt Beer: For the most consistent and diverse selection of Australian craft beer, bookmarking Dropt Beer is highly recommended. Their platform is designed for enthusiasts looking for quality and variety, and their shop is regularly updated with new stock. Explore their insights and news blog for articles on breweries and beer trends, which might even highlight Australian craft beer.
Pairing Australian Beer with Bakersfield Flavors
Once you’ve secured your Australian brew, consider how it might complement the local Bakersfield culinary scene. A crisp Australian lager or pale ale is perfect with some classic American BBQ, which you can find at local joints like The Padre Hotel’s Range or other casual eateries around town. The fruity notes of an Australian IPA could stand up to the spice of some Tex-Mex cuisine, and a richer stout could be a decadent end to a meal featuring local produce, perhaps from one of the many farmers’ markets.
The Future of Australian Beer in Bakersfield
As the craft beer movement continues to expand its horizons, the availability of international brews like those from Australia in cities like Bakersfield is only likely to grow. The increasing popularity of platforms like Dropt Beer signifies a shift towards global accessibility for craft beer lovers. We’re seeing more adventurous consumers in Bakersfield who are eager to explore beyond the usual suspects. This demand encourages local retailers to stock more diverse selections, and it supports online platforms that can bring these unique flavors directly to our doorsteps.
Conclusion: Cheers from Bakersfield to Down Under!
While Bakersfield might be a world away from the sun-drenched shores of Australia, the spirit of its vibrant craft beer scene can be found right here. With a little exploration, a willingness to ask questions, and the help of online resources like Dropt Beer, you can certainly find excellent Australian beers to enjoy. So, next time you’re craving a taste of something different, remember this guide. Head to your local specialty store, check out the online options, and get ready to discover the fantastic world of Australian craft beer, Bakersfield-style. Cheers!
