Discovering Down Under Flavors in the Heart of Champagne
Reims, France – a city synonymous with exquisite champagne, historic cathedrals, and rolling vineyards. It’s a place where tradition and celebration intertwine, and where the local beverage culture is deeply rooted in its world-renowned sparkling wines. But what if you’re craving a taste of something different, a flavor from a distant land? What if you’re an expat yearning for a familiar brew, or a curious traveler wanting to explore global tastes? If you’re wondering where to buy Australian beer in Reims, France, you’ve come to the right place. While Reims is undeniably the capital of Champagne, its growing cosmopolitan nature means you can indeed find a surprising selection of international delights, including those beloved Aussie brews.
The Challenge and the Joy of International Beer Hunting in Reims
Let’s be honest, finding specific international beers in a city so dominated by its own iconic product can be a quest. French beer culture, while vibrant and diverse, often focuses on artisanal and regional French brews. However, the modern traveler and resident appreciate variety, and the demand for craft and international beers is on the rise. Reims, being a significant city in the Grand Est region and a hub for tourism and business, is not immune to this trend. The key is knowing where to look, and embracing the adventure of discovery.
Where to Start Your Search for Australian Beer
Your primary avenues for finding Australian beer in Reims will generally be through specialized beverage stores, larger supermarkets with extensive import sections, and potentially some forward-thinking bars and restaurants. While you might not find a dedicated Australian beer shop on every corner, persistence and a bit of local knowledge will pay off.
Specialty Beverage Stores (Cavistes and Bières Artisanales)
These are your best bet. While many ‘cavistes’ (wine merchants) primarily focus on wine, an increasing number are broadening their horizons to include spirits and a curated selection of beers. Look for stores that advertise ‘bières du monde’ (beers of the world) or ‘bières artisanales’ (craft beers). These establishments often have knowledgeable staff who can guide you through their international offerings. While I can’t name a specific ‘Australian beer specialist’ in Reims, keeping an eye out for new openings and asking around in these types of shops is crucial. Check the areas around the city center, particularly the streets branching off from the main shopping areas like Rue de Vesle or Place d’Erlon. These stores are more likely to stock premium and imported brands.
Supermarkets with Import Sections
Larger supermarket chains in France are increasingly dedicating shelf space to imported goods, including beverages. For Australian beer, your best bet would be to visit the larger hypermarkets on the outskirts of Reims, such as those found in commercial zones. For example, exploring the offerings at a Carrefour, Auchan, or Leclerc would be a good starting point. These stores often have a dedicated ‘international foods’ aisle, which may include a selection of imported beers. While the selection might be more mainstream Australian brands (think Foster’s, if available, or perhaps Coopers), it’s a convenient and accessible option.
Online Retailers: The Digital Lifeline
For the most extensive selection and the highest probability of finding specific Australian craft beers, your most reliable option is to shop online. Several dedicated online beer retailers in France and Europe offer a vast array of international brews. This is where you can truly explore the diverse landscape of Australian craft beer, from pale ales and lagers to unique seasonal offerings. A fantastic resource for discovering and purchasing a wide range of beers, including those from Australia, is Dropt.beer. They specialize in bringing a world of beer to your doorstep, and their curated selection often features gems from down under. You can browse their extensive catalog online at Dropt.beer/shop/, where you’re likely to find exactly what you’re looking for, delivered directly to your accommodation or a pickup point in Reims. For those interested in the stories behind the brews and the latest in the beer world, Dropt.beer also has an informative blog at Dropt.beer/insights-news-blog/, which can provide further context and inspiration.
What Australian Beers to Look For
Australia boasts a rapidly evolving craft beer scene. While you might encounter some of the more globally recognized brands, keep an eye out for these styles and breweries if you get the chance:
- Pale Ales: Australian hop varieties are world-renowned, and many local breweries excel at crafting vibrant, hop-forward pale ales.
- Lagers: From crisp, refreshing lagers perfect for a warm day to more complex craft lagers, Australia offers a range of styles.
- IPAs (India Pale Ales): Expect plenty of juicy, hazy, and West Coast-style IPAs showcasing Australian hops.
- Stouts and Porters: Especially popular in cooler months, look for rich, dark beers.
- Craft Breweries to Watch For (if available): Stone & Wood, Balter Brewing, Little Creatures, Pirate Life, Feral Brewing Co., and many emerging microbreweries. The specific availability will depend heavily on your source.
Insider Tips for Beer Enthusiasts in Reims
1. Embrace the Local: While you’re on the hunt for Australian beer, don’t forget to explore Reims’ own beer scene. Many bars and restaurants, even those not specializing in beer, will have a decent selection of French craft beers. It’s a great way to compare and contrast.
2. Ask the Experts: Don’t hesitate to ask staff at beverage stores for recommendations. They often have a good understanding of what’s popular and what imports they have access to. Use phrases like, “Avez-vous des bières australiennes ?” (Do you have Australian beers?) or “Je cherche une bière artisanale d’Australie.” (I’m looking for a craft beer from Australia.)
3. Check Local Listings: Keep an eye on local event listings or community boards for beer festivals or tasting events. While less common for purely international beer, they can sometimes pop up and offer unique opportunities.
4. Consider Nearby Cities: If your search in Reims proves fruitless, and you have the means to travel slightly, larger cities like Paris or Lille might offer a wider selection in their specialty beer shops. However, with the rise of online retail, this is becoming less of a necessity.
5. Pairings with Local Cuisine: While you might be seeking Australian beer for its own sake, consider how it could pair with local Reims or Champagne-region cuisine. A crisp Australian lager might be surprisingly refreshing alongside some local cheeses, or a more robust stout could complement a hearty regional dish. Of course, the ultimate pairing remains a world-class champagne!
A Note on Availability
It’s important to manage expectations. Finding a wide variety of Australian beers readily available in physical stores in Reims might be challenging due to the strong local preference for champagne and French wines. However, the situation is constantly evolving, and the online market offers unparalleled access. The beauty of exploring the beverage scene, whether it’s champagne or Australian beer, is the journey of discovery. So, while you might not find a dedicated ‘Aussie pub’ or a vast beer cellar brimming with kangaroos and boomerangs, with a bit of effort and the right resources like Dropt.beer, you can certainly satisfy your craving for a taste of Australia right here in Reims.
Enjoy your exploration, and cheers – or as they say in Australia, ‘cheers’ or ‘ta’!