Discovering Down Under Delights: Where to Find Australian Beer in Middlesbrough
As a proud local of Middlesbrough, I often get asked about the best spots to find unique beverages. While our town boasts a fantastic array of traditional British ales and a growing craft beer scene, sometimes you just crave a taste of something different, something with a bit of sunshine and distinct Australian flair. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Aussie brews or looking to explore this vibrant category, you’re in luck! Middlesbrough, while not the first place you might think of for imported Australian beer, has some excellent options if you know where to look. Let’s dive into how you can get your hands on some fantastic Australian beer right here in our beloved Tees Valley.
Why Australian Beer? A Taste of the Antipodes
Australian beers are renowned for their crisp, refreshing character, often perfectly suited to warmer climes, but equally enjoyable on a cozy Middlesbrough evening. Think lagers with a clean finish, hop-forward pale ales, and even some innovative craft brews that are making waves globally. Brands like Carlton, Cooper’s, Little Creatures, and Stone & Wood are just a few of the names that embody the spirit of Australian brewing. They offer a distinct taste profile, often characterized by a balance of malt and hops, with a refreshing drinkability that makes them stand out.
Your Middlesbrough Beer Hunt: Top Spots and Strategies
Finding specific imported beers can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt, but I’ve done the legwork for you. Here’s where you’re most likely to discover those coveted Australian brews in and around Middlesbrough:
Specialty Beer Shops and Off-Licenses
For the widest selection of imported beers, your best bet is to head to specialty off-licenses and dedicated beer shops. These establishments pride themselves on stocking a diverse range of bottles and cans from around the world, and they’re often the first to bring in new and exciting international brands. While Middlesbrough might not have a massive number of these, there are definitely places that understand the demand for quality imported drinks.
One of the most reliable ways to source a variety of beers, including potential Australian gems, is through online retailers that specialize in craft and imported beers. Companies like Dropt Beer are invaluable resources. They offer an extensive catalogue of beers from all corners of the globe, often featuring Australian breweries that you might struggle to find on your local high street. Their online shop Dropt Beer Shop is a fantastic place to browse, compare, and order directly to your door in Middlesbrough. This is particularly useful for specific Australian brands that might not have widespread distribution in the UK.
Keep an eye out for independent off-licenses in areas like Linthorpe or even a short drive into neighbouring towns like Yarm or Stockton-on-Tees. These smaller, often family-run businesses can have surprisingly well-curated selections. Sometimes, the owners have personal connections or a keen interest in specific beer regions, which can lead to fantastic finds.
Supermarkets with a Diverse Beer Aisle
While your average local supermarket might stick to the mainstream, larger branches of supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, or Asda, especially those located in bigger retail parks around Middlesbrough (think the Cleveland Retail Park or the Captain Cook Birthplace Museum area), often have a more extensive international drinks section. It’s worth checking their premium or imported beer aisles. You might be surprised to find a bottle of Cooper’s Pale Ale or a popular Australian lager nestled amongst the usual suspects. These are often good for more widely available Australian brands.
Pubs and Bars with International Flair
Middlesbrough’s pub scene is rich and varied, with many establishments offering more than just traditional cask ales. Some of our more contemporary pubs and bars, particularly those in the town centre or near the university, are increasingly stocking a wider range of bottled and canned craft and international beers. While it’s less common to find a dedicated Australian beer on tap outside of a major international festival, you might discover a few Australian options in their bottle selection. It’s always worth checking the menu or asking the bartender. Pubs that actively promote a craft beer selection are your best bet.
For instance, exploring pubs around Baker Street or the area near Middlesbrough Football Club (The Riverside Stadium) might yield some interesting discoveries, as these are areas known for their lively social scenes and varied drinking establishments. A pub that focuses on a global craft beer offering is more likely to have Australian brands.
Online Retailers: The Ultimate Convenience
As mentioned earlier, for the absolute best chance of finding a specific Australian beer or a wider variety, online shopping is your most powerful tool. Dropt Beer is a prime example of a platform dedicated to bringing global beers to your doorstep. They understand the nuances of beer distribution and cater to enthusiasts looking for unique brews. Their website is easy to navigate, allowing you to filter by country of origin, style, or brewery. This means you can specifically search for ‘Australian beer’ and see what’s available for delivery to Middlesbrough. They also have a wealth of information on their Insights & News Blog which can help you learn more about different beer styles and regions, including Australia’s burgeoning craft beer scene.
When ordering online, consider the delivery times and any minimum order requirements. It’s a great way to stock up for a party or a special occasion, ensuring you have access to those hard-to-find Australian brews without leaving your home in Middlesbrough.
Insider Tips for Your Middlesbrough Australian Beer Adventure
- Check Local Independent Grocers: Sometimes, smaller, independent grocery stores that cater to diverse communities might stock imported goods. It’s a long shot, but worth a casual glance if you’re passing by.
- Ask Your Local Pubs: Don’t be afraid to ask the landlord or bar staff at your favourite Middlesbrough pubs if they can source specific Australian beers. If there’s enough local interest, they might consider adding them to their stock.
- Join Online Beer Communities: Facebook groups and online forums dedicated to craft beer or imported drinks often have members from Middlesbrough or the surrounding areas who share tips on where to find specific brews.
- Look for Special Events: Occasionally, Middlesbrough might host food festivals or special events where international vendors participate. Keep an eye on local event listings for opportunities to sample Australian beers.
- Consider a Road Trip (Slightly): If you’re serious about finding a very specific Australian beer and can’t locate it locally or online, a trip to a larger city like Newcastle or Leeds might offer a more extensive selection in their specialist stores. However, for most needs, online is usually the most efficient method.
- Know Your Australian Beer Styles: Familiarize yourself with popular Australian beer styles. While lagers are common, explore their pale ales, India pale ales (IPAs), and even stouts. Breweries like Balter, Feral, and Philter are making impressive craft beers.
Popular Australian Beer Brands to Look For
When you’re on the hunt, here are some Australian brands that are more likely to be found, either online or in well-stocked specialist stores:
- Carlton Draught: A classic, refreshing lager.
- Coopers Original Pale Ale: Known for its distinctive cloudy appearance and smooth, balanced flavour.
- Little Creatures Pale Ale: A highly popular craft pale ale with fruity hop notes.
- Stone & Wood Pacific Ale: A refreshing, easy-drinking ale brewed with tropical notes.
- XXXX Gold: A very popular, easy-drinking lager in Australia.
- Furphy Refreshing Ale: Another accessible and popular choice.
Remember that availability can change, and new breweries are constantly emerging. The best approach is to stay curious and explore the options available through dedicated platforms like Dropt Beer, which keep up with global trends and bring them to enthusiasts in places like Middlesbrough.
Enjoying Your Australian Brew in Middlesbrough
Once you’ve secured your Australian beer, whether it’s a crisp lager to enjoy on a rare sunny day by the River Tees or a hoppy pale ale to pair with some local fish and chips, savour the experience. Middlesbrough has a unique charm, and enjoying a beer from the other side of the world can add a delightful global dimension to your local enjoyment. Cheers from Middlesbrough – or as they say down under, ‘Cheers!’.
