The world of alcoholic ginger beer offers a delightful mix of spice, sweetness, and refreshing zest. From bold, fiery brews to smooth, subtly sweet blends, there’s a flavor for every palate. Choosing the best alcoholic ginger beer brands means discovering unique options that shine solo or transform your cocktails into something extraordinary.
Best Alcoholic Ginger Beer Brands
Ginger has gained popularity over the years as people embrace its bold, spicy flavor and refreshing kick. Ginger beer, especially the alcoholic variety, has become a favorite for those seeking a drink that stands out from the usual options.
Its versatility makes it perfect for sipping on hot summer days at the beach or enjoying during casual get-togethers with friends. Whether you prefer it straight from the bottle or as a key ingredient in cocktails, ginger beer delivers a taste like no other.
However, before we take a look at alcoholic ginger beer, let’s first understand what ginger beer is all about.
What is Ginger Beer?
Ginger beer is a carbonated beverage made by fermenting ginger, sugar, and water with a live culture like yeast. Its origins trace back to 18th-century England, where it was initially brewed as an alcoholic drink. Today, alcoholic ginger beer typically contains 5–7% ABV, offering a light to moderate kick. The result is a drink with a spicy, sweet, and tangy profile.
The brewing process often includes lemon juice, spices, or botanicals for added complexity. Unlike ginger ale, which is non-alcoholic and milder, ginger beer packs a more robust ginger flavor. Its versatility makes it great for drinking solo or as a base in cocktails like Moscow Mules. Modern variations also emphasize natural, high-quality ingredients.
7 Ginger Beers With Alcohol
A good alcoholic ginger beer strikes the perfect balance between spicy ginger heat and refreshing sweetness. Whether enjoyed on its own or in cocktails, it’s a drink that never disappoints. Here are some you can enjoy in 2025:
1. Crabbie’s Original Alcoholic Ginger Beer
Crabbie’s Original Alcoholic Ginger Beer is a classic choice with a smooth, refreshing flavor. It features the perfect blend of real ginger, spices, and a light sweetness, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Its moderate 4% ABV makes it easy to enjoy without being overwhelming. Crabbie’s is a go-to for ginger beer lovers worldwide.
The brand also offers exciting variations to suit different tastes. The Scottish Raspberry adds a fruity twist, combining tangy berries with spicy ginger. Their IPA and Stout versions bring a beer-forward approach, appealing to craft beer enthusiasts. For something unique, the Spiced Orange variant blends zesty citrus with warming spices.
2. Bundaberg Alcoholic Ginger Beer
Bundaberg Alcoholic Ginger Beer is celebrated for its robust and well-rounded flavor profile. Each sip reveals a warm, spicy ginger kick balanced by a subtle sweetness that makes it both bold and refreshing. The brewing process enhances the natural flavors, creating a rich, effervescent texture. Its 4% ABV offers a light, enjoyable drinking experience.
The tasting notes emphasize the depth of real ginger complemented by hints of caramel and citrus. The gentle sweetness never overpowers the spicy bite, resulting in perfect harmony. Its smooth finish makes it great for both standalone enjoyment and mixing into cocktails. Bundaberg’s focus on quality ingredients shines in every bottle.
3. Mule 2.0 Spicy Ginger Beer
Mule 2.0 Spicy Ginger Beer is a bold option crafted for those who love an intense ginger flavor. Its spicy profile delivers a strong, zesty kick that pairs well with the drink’s crisp carbonation. A touch of sweetness balances the heat to create a refreshing yet fiery experience. With an ABV of 5%, it offers a satisfying strength without being overpowering.
The tasting notes highlight fresh ginger, peppery spice, and a hint of citrus for a layered flavor profile. It finishes clean, leaving a lingering warmth on the palate. Mule 2.0’s robust character makes it great for classic cocktails like Moscow Mules or enjoyed straight from the can. Its versatility and distinct taste make it a standout choice.
4. Hollows and Fentimans Alcoholic Ginger Beer
Hollows & Fentimans Alcoholic Ginger Beer is a premium brew crafted with botanical expertise and a commitment to tradition. It uses natural ginger root and a unique fermentation process to achieve its rich, complex flavor. The result is a drink with a spicy kick balanced by a smooth, slightly sweet finish. With an ABV of 4%, it offers a light yet flavorful drinking experience.
The tasting notes feature a prominent ginger spice complemented by hints of herbal and citrus undertones. Its crisp carbonation enhances the vibrant flavors to make each sip refreshing and satisfying. The drink’s natural ingredients shine through, creating a clean and authentic taste. Hollows & Fentimans is perfect for those seeking a sophisticated take on ginger beer.
5. Badger Brewery’s Alcoholic Ginger Beer
Gosling’s Stormy Ginger Beer is designed to be the perfect complement to cocktails like the iconic Dark ‘n’ Stormy. Its flavor profile leans toward a milder ginger spice, making it approachable for a wide audience. The sweetness is subtle, allowing the natural ginger and citrus notes to shine. With an ABV of around 4.5%, it’s a balanced and versatile option.
The tasting notes reveal a harmonious mix of ginger warmth, lime-like zest, and a touch of caramel sweetness. Its smooth carbonation enhances the drinking experience, delivering a crisp and clean finish. This ginger beer’s understated spice level pairs seamlessly with rum or stands well on its own. Gosling’s is a versatile and crowd-pleasing choice.
6. Brookvale Union Ginger Beer
Brookvale Union Ginger Beer is a bold and flavorful option known for its punchy ginger taste and vibrant character. Its recipe strikes a fine balance between spicy ginger heat and a gentle sweetness, making it stand out among competitors. At 4% ABV, it offers a refreshing yet satisfying kick. This Australian favorite is perfect for both casual sipping and lively gatherings.
The beer has a natural ginger flavor with subtle citrus undertones and a hint of earthiness. Its crisp carbonation complements the robust ginger that creates a lively and refreshing mouthfeel. The slightly sweet finish rounds out the spice that leaves a clean and balanced aftertaste. Brookvale Union delivers a memorable experience in every sip.
7. James Squire Ginger Beer
James Squire Ginger Beer offers a fresh take on the classic ginger brew, blending crisp flavors with a modern craft twist. It delivers a smooth ginger warmth balanced by a touch of citrus and mild sweetness. The drink’s light 4% ABV makes it an approachable choice for casual and frequent enjoyment. Its refreshing profile has earned it a spot among Australia’s top craft beverages.
The beer features a prominent ginger spice with hints of tropical fruit and zesty lemon. It finishes clean with just a whisper of sweetness, making it neither too sharp nor too mellow. The effervescent texture adds a lively fizz that enhances the flavors. It pairs perfectly with spicy dishes or warm afternoons.
How to Enjoy Alcoholic Ginger Beer
Alcoholic ginger beer is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways, from sipping it straight to using it in creative cocktails. Here are seven great ideas:
- Serve it chilled: Pour over ice in a tall glass for a refreshing drink on a warm day. Add a lime wedge for extra zing.
- Pair it with food: Pair the beer with spicy dishes like Thai curry or BBQ. Its ginger kick complements rich, bold flavors beautifully.
- Create a Moscow Mule: Mix ginger beer with vodka and lime juice. Serve in a copper mug for a classic cocktail experience.
- Make a Dark ‘n’ Stormy: Combine ginger beer with dark rum and a splash of lime. It’s a simple, flavorful option for any occasion.
- Use it in punches: Add it to fruity punches for a bubbly twist. Its spice adds depth and balances the sweetness of the mix.
- Try it with whiskey: Mix it with bourbon or rye for a bold cocktail. The ginger spice pairs perfectly with the whiskey’s warmth.
- Drink it straight: Enjoy the pure flavors of ginger beer on its own. Its unique blend of spice and sweetness is satisfying by itself.
Frequently Asked Question
Does Jamaican Ginger Beer Contain Alcohol?
Jamaican ginger beer is typically non-alcoholic, though some brands or homemade versions may include alcohol. Traditional alcoholic ginger beer recipe focuses on ginger, sugar, and water to create a bold, spicy drink. Alcoholic versions are less common but available in select markets. It’s important to check the label if you’re looking for alcoholic ginger beer.
What Are Some Non-alcoholic Ginger Beer Brands?
Some popular non-alcoholic ginger beer brands include Fever-Tree, Reed’s, and Barritt’s. Fever-Tree offers a crisp and balanced flavor that pairs well with cocktails. Reed’s is known for its bold ginger kick and natural ingredients. Barritt’s delivers a milder ginger taste that makes it versatile for mixing or enjoying on its own.
Is Ginger Beer Alcoholic?
Ginger beer can be alcoholic or non-alcoholic, depending on the brand or recipe. Traditional ginger beer was fermented and contained alcohol, while modern versions are often non-alcoholic. Popular non-alcoholic options like Fever-Tree and Reed’s focus on flavor without fermentation. Alcoholic ginger beers are still available and typically have 4–7% ABV.
Conclusion
The best alcoholic ginger beer brands offer a perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and refreshment. Whether you enjoy bold ginger heat or a more subtle flavor, there’s something for everyone. From classics like Crabbie’s to innovative options like Mule 2.0, these drinks suit any occasion. Explore these brands to find your favorite.