Discovering Down Under Flavors: Where to Buy Australian Beer in Long Beach
G’day, Long Beach! If you’re craving the crisp, refreshing taste of Australian beer but aren’t planning a trip to the land Down Under anytime soon, don’t fret. Long Beach, with its vibrant culinary scene and diverse population, offers some surprisingly good options for sourcing your favorite Aussie brews. As a local who loves exploring the unique flavors our city has to offer, I’ve done the legwork to find the best spots where you can snag a taste of Australia. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Victoria Bitter or keen to explore some craftier options, this guide is for you.
Why Australian Beer?
Australian beers are known for their distinctive character, often reflecting the climate and lifestyle of the country. Think crisp lagers perfect for a sunny day, robust ales with a bit of bite, and increasingly, innovative craft beers pushing the boundaries. From iconic brands that have graced Australian pubs for decades to emerging craft breweries gaining international acclaim, there’s a wide spectrum of flavors to explore. They often have a refreshing, clean finish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods, making them a versatile choice for any occasion.
Navigating the Long Beach Scene for Aussie Brews
Finding imported beers, especially those from specific regions like Australia, can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. However, Long Beach, with its strong connection to international trade and its love for good food and drink, has several reliable havens. These range from dedicated craft beer stores to larger liquor store chains and even some specialty international markets. The key is knowing where to look.
Top Spots to Find Australian Beer in Long Beach
Let’s dive into the specific locations where you’re most likely to find those coveted Australian brews:
1. Bottle Shops and Craft Beer Havens
When it comes to variety and specialized selections, dedicated bottle shops are your best bet. These establishments often pride themselves on curating a diverse range of local and international beers, and Australian beers are frequently part of their import selection. One of the most reliable places to start your search is:
- Craft Beer Cellar Long Beach: Located in the Alamitos Beach neighborhood, this is a paradise for beer enthusiasts. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and are often eager to help you find exactly what you’re looking for, including international selections. While their inventory changes, they frequently stock a good range of popular and lesser-known Australian beers. Don’t hesitate to ask them if they have any Aussie imports or if they can special order something for you. Their commitment to craft beer means they understand the nuances of different brewing traditions.
The beauty of places like Craft Beer Cellar is their focus. They are not just selling beer; they are curating an experience. You can often find information about the breweries and styles, which adds another layer to your discovery. Keep an eye on their social media or website for new arrivals, as they sometimes feature specific country or regional selections.
2. Larger Liquor Stores with Extensive Selections
Beyond the dedicated craft beer shops, some of the larger, more well-established liquor stores in Long Beach have impressive import sections. These stores often have the volume to carry a wider array of international products. While their selection might be more focused on well-known brands, you can still strike gold.
- BevMo! (Multiple Locations): With several locations across Long Beach (e.g., near the Long Beach Towne Center or in the Marina Pacifica area), BevMo! is a reliable source for a broad range of alcoholic beverages. Their import beer section is usually extensive. While you might not find hyper-local Australian craft breweries here, you’re very likely to find popular Australian lagers and ales that are widely distributed. Check their aisles carefully, as Australian beers are sometimes placed with other international lagers.
- Total Wine & More (Near Long Beach): While technically just outside the immediate city limits in areas like Lakewood or Torrance, Total Wine & More is worth the short drive. They boast an enormous selection of wines and spirits, and their beer department is equally impressive. They often have a dedicated international beer section where you can sift through options from around the globe, including Australia. Their website is also a great tool to check inventory before you visit.
When visiting larger stores, the key is patience and a bit of exploration. Sometimes, imported beers are grouped by country, and other times they might be integrated into broader categories. Don’t be afraid to ask a store associate for assistance; they often have a good understanding of their inventory, though they might not always have the same depth of knowledge as a dedicated craft beer shop employee.
3. Specialty and International Markets
Long Beach is a melting pot, and its international markets often reflect this diversity. While less common for Australian beer specifically, sometimes these markets carry unique imports. It’s a long shot, but if you’re exploring other neighborhoods and find a larger international grocer, it might be worth a quick peek.
Keep an eye out for:
- Stores with a strong British or European focus: Sometimes, distributors that bring in beers from the UK or Europe might also carry Australian options, especially if there’s a shared distribution network.
This is more of an opportunistic find, but it adds to the adventure of discovering new places in Long Beach.
Popular Australian Beers to Look For
When you’re on the hunt, here are some iconic and popular Australian beers you might encounter:
- Victoria Bitter (VB): Arguably Australia’s most iconic beer. It’s a full-flavored lager with a distinctive taste. Many Australians grew up with VB, and it’s a staple in pubs and homes.
- XXXX Gold: Another hugely popular lager, known for being a refreshing, easy-drinking beer, perfect for casual occasions. The name comes from the four ‘X’s’ historically used to denote quality.
- Carlton Draught: A classic Australian lager known for its smooth, clean taste and balanced flavor. It’s often considered a step up in flavor from some of the lighter lagers.
- Coopers Original Pale Ale: Coopers is unique because it’s one of the few remaining breweries in Australia that still bottle-condition their beer. This means it has a secondary fermentation in the bottle, giving it a cloudy appearance and a distinctive, slightly yeasty, and fruity flavor profile. It’s a favorite among craft beer drinkers.
- Tooheys New: A popular lager from New South Wales, known for its crisp and refreshing character.
Beyond these widely distributed brands, keep an eye out for craft breweries like Stone & Wood (Pacific Ale is a standout), Balter Brewing, and Stone Brewing (though Stone Brewing is a US company, they often collaborate and have a presence that can sometimes be confused or associated with Australian craft beer movements).
The Role of Online Retailers and Delivery Services
In today’s digital age, your search doesn’t have to be limited to brick-and-mortar stores. Several online platforms specialize in alcoholic beverages and can deliver directly to your door in Long Beach. This is often the best way to find a wider range of Australian craft beers that might not be available in local shops.
- Dropt.beer: This is a fantastic resource for discovering and purchasing craft beers from breweries all over the world, including Australia. They often have curated selections and can be a great way to try beers you wouldn’t otherwise have access to. Exploring their offerings might reveal some hidden gems from Down Under. Check out their shop for available Australian brews and their blog for news and insights into the craft beer world, which might even feature Australian breweries.
- Other Online Beer Retailers: Many national online beer retailers also ship to California. Do some research, compare prices and shipping costs, and ensure they are licensed to deliver to Long Beach. Always check the specific delivery policies for your address.
Online purchasing offers unparalleled convenience and access to a global beer market. It’s an excellent option if you’re looking for something specific or want to explore the cutting edge of Australian craft brewing without leaving your home.
Insider Tips for Buying Australian Beer in Long Beach
As a local, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make your Australian beer hunt more successful:
- Join Local Beer Groups: Check out Long Beach-specific Facebook groups or online forums dedicated to craft beer. Members often share where they’ve found specific beers or new arrivals.
- Talk to Bar Staff: If you’re at a bar in Long Beach that serves a good selection of international beers (e.g., some of the places in Belmont Shore or Retro Row), strike up a conversation with the bartender. They often know where to source interesting imports.
- Check Brewery Websites: If you have a specific Australian brewery in mind, check their website. They sometimes list distributors or retailers in other countries, or they might have a direct-to-consumer shipping option for certain regions.
- Embrace the Craft Scene: While iconic lagers are easier to find, don’t shy away from trying Australian craft beers. They offer a more complex and adventurous flavor profile. The innovation coming from Australian craft breweries is truly exciting.
- Consider Seasonal Offerings: Some Australian beers might be seasonal or limited releases. Stay updated on what’s being released throughout the year.
- Don’t Forget the Cold Chain: For the best experience, especially with craft beers, ensure the beer has been stored properly. Refrigerated sections are ideal.
Pairing Your Australian Beer with Long Beach Flavors
Once you’ve secured your Australian beer, consider how to best enjoy it. Many Australian lagers are perfect with the kinds of casual, flavorful foods Long Beach excels at:
- Seafood: Long Beach’s proximity to the coast means fantastic seafood. Crisp Australian lagers like VB or XXXX Gold are excellent with fish tacos from a spot on 2nd Street or fresh oysters.
- BBQ: If you’re firing up the grill, an Australian ale can be a great companion. The bolder flavors can stand up to grilled meats.
- International Cuisine: Given Long Beach’s diverse food scene, from Vietnamese in the Little Cambodia neighborhood to Mexican along Pacific Boulevard, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to pair your beer. A clean lager can cut through spicy dishes or complement savory flavors.
The Adventure Continues
Finding Australian beer in Long Beach is more than just a shopping trip; it’s an exploration. It’s about discovering local businesses that cater to a global palate and appreciating the journey these beverages take to reach our shores. So, next time you’re looking to savor a taste of Australia, armed with this guide, you’re well-equipped to embark on that delicious adventure right here in Long Beach.
Cheers!
