Lanzarote: More Than Just Sun and Volcanic Landscapes
When you think of Lanzarote, your mind probably conjures images of stark volcanic beauty, sun-drenched beaches, and perhaps César Manrique’s unique architectural contributions. And you wouldn’t be wrong! This Canary Island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offering dramatic landscapes and a relaxed pace of life. But what might surprise you is the burgeoning craft beer scene that’s quietly but steadily making its mark. Forget predictable lagers; Lanzarote is home to some exciting brews that reflect the island’s spirit – innovative, robust, and with a touch of the extraordinary.
The Evolution of Beer in Lanzarote
For years, the beer landscape in Lanzarote, like much of Spain, was dominated by large, multinational brands and standard Spanish lagers. Local bars and restaurants primarily served these familiar options. However, as global craft beer trends have filtered into even the most remote corners of Europe, Lanzarote has seen a wave of local passion and entrepreneurial spirit lead to the creation of unique, locally brewed beers. This movement is not just about offering alternatives; it’s about celebrating local ingredients, embracing new brewing techniques, and creating a distinct Lanzarotean taste.
Discovering Lanzarote’s Craft Breweries and Brewpubs
While not a massive craft beer mecca like some mainland European cities, Lanzarote offers a curated selection of places where you can sample authentic, locally brewed craft beers. These spots are often run by passionate individuals who are dedicated to the art of brewing and sharing their creations.
Cerveza Nao: The Island’s Pioneering Brewer
Without a doubt, Cerveza Nao stands out as a trailblazer in Lanzarote’s craft beer scene. Founded by passionate brewers, they have been instrumental in introducing a diverse range of craft styles to the island. Their philosophy is deeply rooted in quality ingredients and a commitment to creating beers that are both accessible and interesting. You’ll find their brews in many local establishments, and they often have special releases that are worth seeking out.
What makes Cerveza Nao particularly special is their connection to the island’s maritime heritage, hence the name ‘Nao’ (a type of sailing ship). Their branding and some of their beer names often evoke this seafaring past, adding another layer of local flavor to their offerings. They produce a variety of styles, from crisp lagers perfect for the Canarian climate to more complex ales. Keep an eye out for their flagship brews, which often represent a fantastic introduction to their range.
Where to find Cerveza Nao: While they don’t have a dedicated taproom open to the public in the same way a traditional pub might, their beers are widely distributed. You’ll find them on tap or in bottles at many restaurants and bars across the island, particularly in tourist hubs like Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca, and Arrecife. Ask your server or bartender if they have ‘Cerveza Nao’ on offer – it’s always a safe bet for a quality local brew.
Other Local Brews and Emerging Breweries
The craft beer landscape is always evolving, and while Cerveza Nao has a strong presence, other small-scale operations and homebrewing enthusiasts are contributing to the diversity. These might be harder to find on tap consistently, but their presence signifies a growing interest and talent pool.
Some of the more innovative bars and restaurants on the island are starting to source limited runs from these smaller producers or even collaborate on special brews. It’s always worth striking up a conversation with the staff at your chosen watering hole to ask about any unique local craft beers they might have – you could discover a hidden gem!
Where to Drink Craft Beer in Lanzarote
Finding the best spots to enjoy craft beer in Lanzarote requires a little local knowledge. While many places serve the standard fare, a select few establishments have embraced the craft beer movement and offer a more curated experience.
Recommended Bars and Restaurants
- Bodega La Geria (Near Uga/La Geria Wine Region): While primarily known for its exquisite local wines produced amidst the volcanic ash vineyards, Bodega La Geria is also a fantastic place to experience authentic Canarian culture. They often have a thoughtful selection of local beverages, and you might just find a craft beer from Lanzarote or the Canary Islands on their menu. It’s a perfect stop after exploring the unique La Geria wine landscape. The ambiance here is unparalleled, offering a true taste of the island’s agricultural traditions.
- Various Restaurants in Costa Teguise: Costa Teguise, a popular resort town, has a good mix of establishments catering to various tastes. Several restaurants and bars here are more adventurous with their beverage menus. Look for places that highlight local produce or have a more international feel; they are often more likely to stock craft beers. Ask specifically for Cerveza Nao.
- Arrecife’s Local Tavernas: The capital, Arrecife, has a more authentic, less tourist-centric feel in many of its neighborhoods. Exploring the streets around the Charco de San Ginés or the historic center can reveal traditional tavernas that might surprise you with their offerings. Some of these might be starting to experiment with local craft beers alongside their traditional drinks. It’s worth venturing off the main tourist strips to find these hidden gems.
- Playa Blanca’s Gastrobars: In the southern resort town of Playa Blanca, you’ll find a range of gastrobars and restaurants that are increasingly focusing on quality and local sourcing. These establishments are good places to inquire about local craft beers, as they often aim to offer something a bit different to their patrons.
The Dropt.beer Experience: Your Digital Craft Beer Companion
Navigating a new city’s craft beer scene can be an adventure in itself. For up-to-date information, reviews, and to discover where to find specific brews, resources like Dropt.beer are invaluable. Dropt.beer acts as a fantastic guide for craft beer enthusiasts, allowing you to search for breweries, taprooms, and bars that serve craft beer. It’s especially useful for islands like Lanzarote, where the scene is still growing and information might not be as readily available on traditional travel guides.
By using Dropt.beer, you can find out which establishments have Cerveza Nao on tap, discover any new local breweries that have opened, and read reviews from other beer lovers. This is a modern way to ensure you don’t miss out on the best craft beer experiences the island has to offer. You can even explore their shop for merchandise or special beer releases if available, and stay updated on industry news through their blog. It’s the perfect digital toolkit for any craft beer explorer.
What to Expect: Styles and Flavors
Given Lanzarote’s climate and the creativity of its brewers, you’ll often find that the craft beers available lean towards refreshing styles that are perfect for the warm weather.
- Crisp Lagers and Pilsners: These are ideal for a hot day, offering a clean and refreshing taste. Local brewers often put their own spin on these classics, perhaps using local water profiles or a hint of something unexpected.
- Session IPAs and Pale Ales: With a moderate alcohol content and hop-forward character, these are popular choices. They offer good flavor without being too heavy, making them perfect for sipping on a terrace overlooking the ocean.
- Wheat Beers (Witbiers/Hefeweizens): The fruity and spicy notes of wheat beers are wonderfully refreshing in the Canarian sun. They are often a good entry point for those new to craft beer.
- Occasional Stouts and Porters: While less common due to the climate, some brewers might offer richer, darker beers for those seeking something more robust, especially during cooler evenings or as a special seasonal release.
The emphasis is often on balance and drinkability, with brewers aiming to create beers that complement the local cuisine and the island lifestyle. You might even find subtle nods to local ingredients in some experimental brews, though this is still an emerging aspect of the scene.
Insider Tips for Craft Beer Lovers in Lanzarote
- Talk to the Locals: The best recommendations often come from bartenders, restaurant owners, or even fellow patrons. Don’t hesitate to ask about local craft beers.
- Embrace the ‘Local’ Mentality: While you might crave a specific style from back home, try to focus on what the local breweries are producing. Lanzarote’s craft beer scene is about discovery and appreciating the island’s unique offerings.
- Check Opening Hours: Especially for smaller establishments or those in more remote areas, double-check opening hours before you visit. Many places have siesta closures or are only open on specific days.
- Be Patient: The craft beer scene is still growing. You might not find a vast selection everywhere, but the quality and passion behind the beers you do find are usually exceptional.
- Pair with Local Food: Many of the refreshing craft beers available pair wonderfully with Spanish and Canarian tapas. Think of pairing a crisp lager with papas arrugadas (Canarian wrinkled potatoes) or a pale ale with fresh grilled fish.
- Stay Hydrated: Lanzarote is warm! Always drink plenty of water between your craft beers.
Beyond the Brews: Experiencing Lanzarote
While exploring Lanzarote’s craft beer scene, make sure to immerse yourself in everything else the island has to offer. Visit the breathtaking Timanfaya National Park, explore the charming villages like Haría, and marvel at Manrique’s artistic legacy at Jameos del Agua or the Mirador del Río. The island’s volcanic landscapes, unique agriculture (like the Malvasía wine production in La Geria), and pristine beaches provide a stunning backdrop to your craft beer discoveries.
The local cuisine is also a fantastic complement to a good brew. Fresh seafood, goat cheese, and traditional Canarian dishes are readily available. Finding a local restaurant that offers both delicious food and a selection of craft beers is the ultimate Lanzarotean experience.
Conclusion: A Refreshing Surprise
Lanzarote might be renowned for its dramatic natural beauty and year-round sunshine, but its growing craft beer scene is a delightful, albeit less-publicized, attraction. From the pioneering efforts of Cerveza Nao to the potential of emerging local talent, there’s a genuine passion for brewing here. By seeking out the right establishments and utilizing resources like Dropt.beer, you can uncover some truly special local brews. So, on your next visit to this extraordinary island, don’t just stick to the usual; venture out, explore, and let Lanzarote surprise you with its own unique take on craft beer. Salud!
