Top 20 Premium Beers in India: A Connoisseur's Guide

India's beer scene has undergone a revolution in recent years. No longer limited to strong lagers, today's Indian consumers are seeking refined, flavorful, and well-crafted brews. The demand for premium beers is on the rise, driven by urban millennials, growing disposable incomes, and an evolving appreciation for global tastes. From international classics to emerging Indian craft labels, premium beers in India offer quality ingredients, lower bitterness, and distinctive flavor profiles that make them perfect for every refined palate.

Top 20 Premium Beers in India

1. Bira 91 White (Wheat Beer)

This refreshing wheat beer is a modern Indian favorite, known for its citrusy, light, and smooth character. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a crisp, flavorful brew without heavy bitterness.

• ABV: 4.7%
• Taste Notes: A refreshing wheat beer with hints of citrus and a smooth, creamy finish.
• Price: ₹200–₹250 for 750ml
• Availability: Widely available in urban centers and online platforms.
• Food Pairing: Light salads, seafood, and spicy Indian appetizers.

Read more: about the Top 16 Indian Beer Brands 2025 to discover popular local brews.

2. Simba Wit

Simba Wit is a Belgian-style wheat beer with citrus and lemongrass notes. It’s light-bodied and highly refreshing, making it a great summer beer.

• ABV: 4.8%
• Taste Notes: Citrus, lemongrass, and subtle spice.
• Price: ₹150–₹200 for 330ml
• Availability: Select metro cities and online stores.
• Food Pairing: Grilled chicken, seafood, and fresh salads.

3. Kingfisher Premium Lager

Kingfisher Premium is an iconic Indian beer known for its balanced flavor and smoothness. It’s a classic lager that appeals to a wide audience.

• ABV: 4.8%
• Taste Notes: Crisp maltiness with mild bitterness and a clean finish.
•  Price: ₹140–₹160 for 650ml
• Availability: Pan-India, widely available.
• Food Pairing: Indian street food, spicy curries, and fried snacks.

4. White Rhino Witbier

White Rhino’s Witbier is a Belgian-style wheat beer brewed with organic coriander and orange peel, delivering a smooth and aromatic experience.

• ABV: 5%
• Taste Notes: Citrus, coriander, and subtle spice with a creamy body.
• Price: ₹180–₹220 for 330ml
• Availability: Major metros and select outlets.
• Food Pairing: Light seafood dishes and fresh salads.

5. Paulaner Munich Lager

Imported from Germany, Paulaner Munich Lager is a premium beer with a smooth, malty taste and moderate bitterness.

• ABV: 5.5%
• Taste Notes: Toasted malt, caramel, and mild hops.
• Price: ₹350–₹400 for 500ml
• Availability: Metro cities and select bars.
• Food Pairing: Sausages, grilled meats, and rich Indian curries.

6. Bira 91 IPA

Bira 91 IPA offers a bold hop-forward profile with floral and fruity aromas, perfect for craft beer enthusiasts.

• ABV: 6.5%
• Taste Notes: Citrusy hops, pine, and a balanced bitterness.
• Price: ₹220–₹280 for 330ml
• Availability: Major urban centers and online.
• Food Pairing: Spicy dishes, BBQ, and burgers.

7. Hoegaarden Belgian White

A classic Belgian witbier, Hoegaarden is known for its cloudy appearance and refreshing citrus-spiced flavors.

• ABV: 4.9%
• Taste Notes: Orange peel, coriander, and wheat malt.
• Price: ₹300–₹350 for 330ml
• Availability: Premium bars and select retail outlets.
• Food Pairing: Light salads, seafood, and spicy Indian cuisine.

Also read: Top Beer Restaurant in Noida for the best places to enjoy craft beer.

8. Old Monk 10000

From the makers of the iconic rum, Old Monk 10000 is a strong malt liquor with a rich and full-bodied taste.

• ABV: 8%
• Taste Notes: Bold maltiness with a slightly sweet finish.
• Price: ₹180–₹220 for 650ml
• Availability: Select liquor stores in metros.
• Food Pairing: Spicy meats and fried snacks.

9. Kati Patang Saffron Lager

Brewed with Himalayan spring water, Kati Patang’s Saffron Lager is a premium craft beer with delicate saffron notes and a smooth finish.

• ABV: 5%
• Taste Notes: Light malt, saffron aroma, and mild spice.
• Price: ₹170–₹200 for 330ml
• Availability: Select outlets and online.
• Food Pairing: Indian spices, kebabs, and grilled fish.

10. Simba Stout

India’s first bottled stout, Simba Stout is smooth, low-bitterness, with notes of coffee, toffee, and dark chocolate.

• ABV: 6%
• Taste Notes: Coffee, caramel, and chocolate undertones.
• Price: ₹180–₹220 for 330ml
• Availability: Metro bars and online.
• Food Pairing: Chocolate desserts, BBQ, and rich curries.

11. Bira 91 Gold

Bira 91 Gold is a golden lager with a balanced malt and hop profile, making it accessible and flavorful.

• ABV: 4.9%
• Taste Notes: Malt sweetness with mild bitterness.
• Price: ₹180–₹220 for 330ml
• Availability: Widely available in urban areas.
• Food Pairing: Pizza, grilled meats, and spicy snacks.

12. White Rhino IPA

A craft IPA with tropical fruit and pine aromas, White Rhino IPA delivers a strong hop punch with a smooth finish.

• ABV: 6.8%
• Taste Notes: Citrus, pine, and floral hops.
• Price: ₹190–₹230 for 330ml
• Availability: Major cities and craft beer stores.
• Food Pairing: Spicy street food and grilled meats.

13. Carlsberg Elephant Strong

A strong lager with robust malt flavor and moderate bitterness, popular in parts of India.

• ABV: 7.2%
• Taste Notes: Strong malt, caramel, and hops.
• Price: ₹130–₹160 for 650ml
• Availability: Select markets and stores.
• Food Pairing: Spicy Indian dishes and snacks.

14. Bira 91 Blonde Lager

Bira 91 Blonde Lager is a light, crisp beer with a mild malt flavor and balanced bitterness.

• ABV: 4.9%
• Taste Notes: Light malt, subtle hops, and refreshing finish.
• Price: ₹180–₹220 for 330ml
• Availability: Widely available in metro areas.
• Food Pairing: Seafood, salads, and light snacks.

15. Thunderbolt Strong Beer

India’s first strong beer since 1984, Thunderbolt is brewed with Himalayan water and delivers a smooth yet robust flavor.

• ABV: 7%
• Taste Notes: Malty sweetness with fruity and floral aromas.
• Price: ₹130–₹150 for 650ml
• Availability: Select liquor stores and bars.
• Food Pairing: Spicy meats and grilled snacks.

16. BrewDog Punk IPA

An internationally acclaimed IPA now available in India, BrewDog Punk IPA is fruity, hoppy, and full-bodied.

• ABV: 5.6%
• Taste Notes: Tropical fruit, caramel, and bold hops.
• Price: ₹300–₹350 for 330ml
• Availability: Premium bars and specialty stores.
• Food Pairing: Burgers, spicy curries, and BBQ.

17. Haywards 5000 Strong

A staple strong beer in India, Haywards 5000 offers a powerful malt flavor and strong finish.

• ABV: 7%
• Taste Notes: Strong maltiness with a slightly bitter finish.
• Price: ₹130–₹150 for 650ml
• Availability: Widely available.
• Food Pairing: Spicy Indian dishes and fried snacks.

18. Royal Challenge Strong

Known for its full-bodied malt flavor and smooth finish, Royal Challenge Strong is popular among Indian beer lovers.

• ABV: 7%
• Taste Notes: Rich malt, balanced bitterness, and a clean finish.
• Price: ₹150–₹180 for 650ml
• Availability: Select stores and bars.
• Food Pairing: Barbecue, grilled meats, and spicy curries.

19. Bad Monkey Super Strong

Bad Monkey is a super strong craft beer with bold flavors and a balanced hoppy finish, rapidly gaining popularity.

• ABV: 8%
• Taste Notes: Bold malt, hops, and a slightly bitter finish.
• Price: ₹180–₹220 for 500ml
• Availability: Select metros and craft beer outlets.
• Food Pairing: Barbecue, burgers, and spicy foods.

20. Kalyani Black Label Strong

A West Bengal classic, Kalyani Black Label is known for its strong malt flavor and high alcohol content.

• ABV: 7-8%
• Taste Notes: Strong malt, caramel sweetness, and mild bitterness.
• Price: ₹160–₹180 for 500ml
• Availability: Primarily Eastern India.
• Food Pairing: Spicy Indian food and grilled snacks.

Read more: about the Best Unlimited Beer Offers in Delhi NCR to get great deals on beer.

What is Premium Beer?

Premium beer refers to beer made with superior ingredients, distinct brewing processes, and enhanced flavor profiles. Unlike mass-market or strong lagers, premium beers often have moderate alcohol content, complex aroma and taste, and are sometimes brewed in small batches. These beers include imported labels and homegrown craft varieties. Premium beer is not just about price—it's about quality, freshness, authenticity, and experience. They are often served in upscale bars, lounges, or breweries and appeal to beer lovers looking for more than just a buzz.

Also read: the exciting details of Sunday Happy Hour at The Beer Garden Noida for weekend fun and discounts.

The Beer Garden Noida: Your Destination for Premium Brews

At The Beer Garden, Noida, we celebrate beer in its finest form. Nestled in Sector 63, our rooftop resto-bar offers an unmatched ambiance with greenery, chill vibes, and a view to toast to. Offering a chilled ambiance with a wide range of premium beers—from Kingfisher and Bira 91 to Corona and craft selections—served in frosted glasses, The Beer Garden promises an unforgettable beer-tasting experience. 

Whether you want to relax after work or celebrate with friends, the vibe here is perfect for chilling out. Don’t miss out on their Beer Fest package at just ₹1500 per person for unlimited beer (minimum 10 persons required). .

• Location: H1A/25, Sector 63 Rd, Noida
• Contact: +91-9667625005 | +91-9650132001
• Menu: Visit Menu
• Blog: Indian Beers for Summers

FAQs About Premium Beer in India

Q: What defines a premium beer?

A: Premium beer is crafted with quality ingredients, often brewed in small batches, offering refined taste, aroma, and lower bitterness.

Q: Which is the top-selling premium beer in India?

A: Bira 91 White, Kingfisher Ultra, and Budweiser Magnum are among the bestsellers.

Q: Are international premium beers available in India?

A: Yes, beers like Heineken, Corona, Hoegaarden, and Stella Artois are widely available.

Q: Where can I try premium beers in Noida?

A: The Beer Garden Noida offers a wide selection with excellent ambiance and food pairing options.

Q: How much does a premium beer cost in India?

A: Prices vary, typically ranging from ₹200 to ₹500 for a 330ml to 750ml bottle.

India’s premium beer market is thriving, with a wide variety of global and domestic options that cater to every palate. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or just beginning your premium beer journey, there's a perfect pint waiting for you. Visit The Beer Garden Noida for the best beer experience in town.