Discovering the Taste of Down Under: Australian Beer in St. Paul
G’day, St. Paul! If you’re craving a crisp lager from Down Under or a craft brew with a distinctly Australian hop profile, you might be wondering where to find your favorite Aussie beers here in the heart of Minnesota. While St. Paul might be a little far from Bondi Beach, rest assured, you can still get your hands on some fantastic Australian brews. As a local who loves exploring the diverse culinary and beverage scene of our city, I’ve done the legwork for you. Let’s dive into how you can enjoy a taste of Australia right here in St. Paul.
The Allure of Australian Beer
Australian beers are known for their refreshing character, often boasting a balanced malt profile and a notable hop aroma, frequently featuring unique Australian hop varieties. Think clean, crisp lagers perfect for a warm day, or more complex ales with notes of tropical fruit and citrus. From well-known international brands to emerging craft breweries, Australia offers a diverse range. And for those of us in St. Paul, the quest for these unique flavors can be an adventure in itself.
Where to Buy Australian Beer in St. Paul
Finding imported beers can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt, but St. Paul has several spots that are well-stocked with international selections. Here are my top recommendations for where to look:
1. Specialty Liquor Stores: Your Best Bet
When it comes to finding a wide and curated selection of international beers, specialty liquor stores are your golden ticket. These establishments often have knowledgeable staff who can help you navigate their offerings and may even be able to order specific brands if they don’t have them in stock. Here are a few places in St. Paul that are worth checking out:
- Excelsior Crossings Liquor: Located at 1387 Grand Ave, St Paul, MN 55105, this store is known for its extensive wine and spirits selection, but they also carry a surprisingly good range of international beers. While their Australian selection might fluctuate, it’s a great place to start. Their staff is generally helpful and can point you in the right direction.
- Merlin’s Fine Wine & Spirits: Situated at 1663 Ford Pkwy, St Paul, MN 55116, Merlin’s is another local favorite for quality beverages. They pride themselves on having a diverse inventory, and it’s not uncommon to find a selection of Australian lagers and ales here. Keep an eye out for familiar names and perhaps some lesser-known gems.
- Hy-Vee (Various Locations): While Hy-Vee is a grocery store, their larger locations often have impressive liquor store sections. Check out the Hy-Vee at 1710 St Clair Ave, St Paul, MN 55105. Their beverage managers often curate a good selection of imported beers, and it’s worth inquiring about Australian options.
2. Online Retailers and Delivery Services: Convenience at Your Fingertips
In today’s digital age, you don’t even need to leave your home to find that perfect Australian beer. Several online platforms specialize in beverage delivery, and some even focus on craft and imported beers. This can be an excellent way to discover new breweries and ensure you get what you’re looking for without a physical search.
One of the most comprehensive online resources for craft and imported beers is Dropt.beer. This platform is a fantastic hub for discovering breweries, exploring beer varieties, and importantly, finding where to purchase them. You can often find information on specific Australian beers and discover retailers that might ship to St. Paul or offer local delivery. For those looking to explore beyond just a single bottle, Dropt.beer’s shop is an excellent place to browse and potentially find multi-packs or unique offerings. Their insights section, Dropt.beer Insights & News, can also be a great resource for learning about new releases and trends in the beer world, potentially highlighting Australian craft beers that might be making their way to the US market.
Always check the shipping policies and restrictions for your specific location in St. Paul to ensure a smooth delivery process.
3. Bars and Restaurants: Enjoying a Pint with a View (or Just a Good Meal)
While buying a six-pack to take home is one thing, enjoying an Australian beer in a St. Paul establishment is another delightful experience. Several bars and restaurants in the city pride themselves on their international beer selections. These places are perfect for trying a beer before committing to a larger purchase or simply for a relaxed evening out.
- The Happy Gnome: Located at 498 Selby Ave, St Paul, MN 55102, The Happy Gnome is renowned for its extensive and thoughtfully curated beer list, often featuring a rotating selection of craft and imported brews. It’s a prime spot to explore unique beers, and you might just find an Australian gem on tap or in their bottle selection. Their knowledgeable staff can also offer recommendations.
- W.A. Frost & Company: Situated in the historic Cathedral Hill neighborhood at 374 Selby Ave, St Paul, MN 55102, W.A. Frost offers a sophisticated dining experience with an impressive bar. Their beverage menu frequently includes a variety of international beers, and it’s a great place to enjoy a refined atmosphere while sipping on something from Down Under.
- Blue Door Pub (Various Locations): With locations like the one at 1513 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55407 (close enough to St. Paul for a short drive, and they sometimes have St. Paul connections or similar offerings at other venues), Blue Door Pub is known for its creative burgers and extensive beer list. They often have a good mix of local, national, and international craft beers, making it a potential place to find an Australian brew.
Insider Tip: When visiting a bar or restaurant, don’t hesitate to ask your server or bartender if they have any Australian beers available. They might have a hidden gem in their cooler or on tap that isn’t prominently advertised.
Popular Australian Beer Brands to Look For
While the craft beer scene in Australia is booming, there are also some iconic brands that have gained international recognition. When browsing in St. Paul, keep an eye out for these:
- Victoria Bitter (VB): Often affectionately called ‘Vee Bee’, this is arguably Australia’s most iconic beer. It’s a full-bodied lager known for its crisp, refreshing taste.
- XXXX Gold: Another incredibly popular lager, particularly in Queensland, ‘XXXX’ (pronounced ‘Four X’) Gold is a mid-strength beer that’s easy to drink.
- Coopers: Coopers Brewery is famous for its ales, especially its Pale Ale and Sparkling Ale. These are often unfiltered and have a distinctive cloudy appearance and complex flavor profile.
- Carlton Draught: A classic Australian lager, known for its smooth, balanced taste and good head.
- Craft Breweries: Beyond the big names, keep an eye out for smaller Australian craft breweries that might be exporting their unique creations. Breweries like Stone & Wood, Balter, and Colonial Brewing Co. are making waves internationally.
Navigating the Selection: What to Consider
When you find a selection of Australian beers, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Freshness: Beer, especially craft beer, is best enjoyed fresh. Check the bottling or canning dates if available. Imported beers can sometimes spend a long time in transit, so look for the most recently produced options.
- Style: Australian beers range from crisp lagers to hoppy ales. Consider what you’re in the mood for. A lager is perfect for a hot day, while an ale might offer more complex flavors.
- Price: Imported beers often come with a higher price tag due to shipping and import duties. Factor this into your purchasing decision.
- Reviews: If you’re unsure about a particular brand or style, a quick search on beer rating sites or on Dropt.beer Insights & News can give you an idea of what to expect.
Beyond the Beer: Embracing Australian Culture in St. Paul
While finding Australian beer is our main mission, you can also immerse yourself in a bit of Aussie culture right here in St. Paul. Keep an eye out for any Australian-themed events or festivals that might pop up, especially around major sporting events like the AFL Grand Final or the Rugby World Cup. Sometimes, local pubs or bars will host viewing parties or special beer tastings.
Exploring the craft beer scene in St. Paul is a rewarding experience, and the addition of international flavors like Australian beers only enhances it. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Aussie brews or looking to try something new, these tips should help you find exactly what you’re looking for.
So, next time you’re in the mood for a taste of the land down under, remember these St. Paul spots. Cheers, and happy hunting!
