Discovering Australian Brews in the Swiss Alps: A Davos Insider’s Guide
Davos, nestled high in the Swiss Alps, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, world-class skiing, and vibrant conference scene. But what if you’re craving a taste of home, specifically a crisp Australian lager or a robust craft ale, while enjoying the mountain air? As a local who’s explored every nook and cranny of this charming town, I’m here to guide you on your quest to find Australian beer in Davos. While Switzerland isn’t exactly known for its vast selection of international beers, particularly from Down Under, with a bit of local knowledge, you can certainly find some delightful options.
The Challenge: Australian Beer in a Swiss Mountain Town
Let’s be realistic. Davos, while international in its visitor base, is deeply rooted in Swiss culture and its own rich brewing traditions. You’ll find an abundance of excellent Swiss beers, from crisp lagers to hearty ales, and a growing craft beer scene. However, Australian brews are not as ubiquitous as you might find in larger cosmopolitan hubs. This means your search might require a little more effort, but the reward – that familiar taste of an Aussie beer – is well worth it!
Where to Look: Your Best Bets in Davos
1. Specialty Liquor Stores & Delicatessens
Your primary hunting ground for imported beers will be the specialized beverage stores and high-end delicatessens. These establishments often pride themselves on offering a curated selection of international products, and they are more likely to stock niche items like Australian beers, especially if there’s a demand.
Recommendation: Keep an eye out for shops in the main street (Promenade) and surrounding areas. While I can’t pinpoint a single store that *always* has Australian beer (inventory changes!), these are the types of places to investigate:
- Local Wein & Spirituosen (Wine & Spirits) Shops: Many Swiss towns have independent shops selling a wide range of alcoholic beverages. Look for signs advertising ‘Spirituosen’, ‘Getränke’, or ‘Spezialitäten’. Ask the staff! They are often very knowledgeable and can tell you if they’ve ever stocked Australian brands or if they can order them for you.
- High-End Delicatessens: Sometimes, gourmet food stores will also have a small but well-chosen selection of imported beers to complement their other offerings. These are great places to find premium products.
2. Larger Supermarkets (with Caution)
While your local Coop or Migros in Davos might have a decent beer selection, focusing on Swiss and German brands, occasionally you might stumble upon a larger branch or one with a more extensive imported section. Don’t expect a wide array of Australian beers here, but it’s always worth a quick look. You’re more likely to find major international brands than niche craft beers.
3. Hotels and Restaurants (The Unexpected Find)
This is where local insider knowledge truly comes into play. Some of the more upscale hotels and restaurants in Davos cater to an international clientele and might feature a small selection of imported beers on their menu, especially if they have a bar or lounge area.
Insider Tip: Some establishments might not prominently display their full beer list. Don’t hesitate to ask the bartender or waiter if they have any Australian beers available. They might have a hidden gem in their cellar or fridge. Places that often host international events or have a strong focus on global cuisine are your best bet.
4. Online Retailers – The Most Reliable Option
When local availability proves challenging, the internet becomes your best friend. For a guaranteed way to get your hands on Australian beer in Davos, ordering online is often the most practical and reliable solution. This allows you access to a much wider variety of brands and styles than you’d ever find in a physical store in a smaller town like Davos.
The Go-To: Drop.beer is an excellent platform that specializes in international beers, including a fantastic selection from Australia. They understand the complexities of international shipping and can deliver directly to Switzerland. You can explore their extensive range of Australian lagers, pale ales, IPAs, and more. This is often the easiest way to ensure you get the specific Australian beer you’re looking for.
What to Look For Online:
- Popular Australian Brands: Think of well-known names like Coopers, Carlton Dry, Victoria Bitter, XXXX Gold, or craft breweries making waves internationally.
- Craft Beer Selections: If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, look for breweries such as Stone & Wood, Balter, Gage Roads, or others that have a strong reputation.
- Delivery Times and Costs: When ordering online, always check the estimated delivery times and shipping costs to Switzerland. Websites like Drop.beer are transparent about this.
Popular Australian Beer Styles to Seek Out
When you do find Australian beers, you’ll likely encounter a range of styles that reflect the country’s climate and palate. Here are a few to keep an eye out for:
- Lager: The quintessential Australian beer style, often crisp, refreshing, and easy-drinking, perfect for warmer weather (or imagining it in the Alps!). Think Victoria Bitter or Carlton Dry.
- Pale Ale: Australian pale ales often have a hop-forward character with fruity and floral notes, sometimes with a touch of malt sweetness.
- IPA (India Pale Ale): Increasingly popular, Australian IPAs can range from classic West Coast styles to more modern, fruity New England IPAs.
- Mid-Strength / Light Beer: Reflecting a focus on sessionability, you’ll find many mid-strength and lighter options designed for easy drinking.
- Coopers Original Pale Ale: A classic for a reason, known for its distinctive cloudy appearance and balanced flavour.
Beyond Beer: Experiencing Davos Like a Local
While your quest for Australian beer is perfectly valid, don’t forget to immerse yourself in the local Davos experience. Here are a few tips:
1. Embrace Swiss Beer Culture
Before you even start your hunt for Aussie brews, take some time to explore the fantastic Swiss beers available. Many local breweries produce excellent lagers and ales that are perfectly suited to the mountain environment. Ask at your hotel bar or local restaurants for recommendations.
2. Explore Local Landmarks and Neighborhoods
Davos is more than just ski slopes. Take a stroll along the Promenade, the vibrant heart of the town, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visit the Kirche Davos (Davos Church) for a dose of history and stunning architecture. For a dose of art and culture, the Bündner Kunstmuseum (Graubünden Art Museum) has a branch nearby, or explore local galleries.
3. Enjoy the Outdoors
Whether it’s summer or winter, Davos is an outdoor paradise. In winter, hit the slopes of Parsenn or Jakobshorn. In summer, hike through breathtaking alpine meadows or take a scenic cable car ride for panoramic views. The Davos Lake (Davoser See) offers beautiful walks and water activities in warmer months.
4. Discover Local Flavors
Don’t miss out on Swiss culinary delights! Try a traditional Rösti (grated potato dish), a hearty cheese fondue, or some delicious Swiss chocolate. Many restaurants in Davos offer authentic Swiss cuisine.
Insider Tips for Your Davos Trip
- Learn a Few German Phrases: While English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, knowing basic German phrases like ‘Hallo’ (Hello), ‘Danke’ (Thank you), and ‘Bitte’ (Please) will be appreciated.
- The Davos Klosters Card: If you’re staying in Davos, you’ll likely receive a Davos Klosters Card, which offers free public transport and discounts on various attractions and cable cars – a huge money-saver!
- Check Event Schedules: Davos hosts numerous events throughout the year, from the World Economic Forum to sporting competitions and cultural festivals. Check the local event calendar to see what’s on during your visit.
- Embrace the Pace: Davos can be a bustling place, but it also offers moments of serene tranquility. Take time to relax, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and enjoy the unique atmosphere.
Conclusion: Your Australian Beer Adventure in Davos
Finding Australian beer in Davos might require a bit more dedication than in larger cities, but it’s definitely achievable, especially with the convenience of online ordering. Websites like Drop.beer, which also offers a great shop at dropt.beer/shop/ and valuable insights on their dropt.beer/insights-news-blog/, are invaluable resources for international beer lovers.
While you’re here, don’t forget to explore the unparalleled beauty and unique charm of Davos itself. Whether you’re sipping a familiar Australian lager or discovering a new Swiss craft brew, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in this spectacular Alpine destination. Prost and Cheers!