Discovering the Taste of Down Under in Plymouth
G’day mates! If you’re in Plymouth and craving a true taste of Australia, you’ve come to the right place. While Plymouth might be known for its rich maritime history and stunning waterfront, it also offers a surprising array of opportunities to get your hands on some fantastic Australian brews. As a local who loves exploring the diverse offerings of our city, I’ve done the legwork to help you find the best spots. From lively pubs to specialized shops, let’s dive into where you can buy Australian beer right here in Plymouth.
Why Australian Beer?
Australian beer culture is as vibrant and diverse as the country itself. Known for its crisp lagers perfect for a sunny day, innovative craft ales, and even some unique stouts, Australian breweries have been making waves globally. Whether you’re a fan of the classic XXXX Gold, the iconic Victoria Bitter, or the more contemporary craft scene, there’s an Australian beer out there for everyone. And the good news is, you don’t need to fly halfway across the world to enjoy them!
Where to Find Australian Beer in Plymouth
Plymouth, with its strong connection to the sea and its international outlook, has several excellent avenues for sourcing Australian beers. Here are my top recommendations:
Specialty Beer Shops and Off-Licences
For the most dedicated beer enthusiasts, specialized shops are your best bet. These places often have a curated selection that goes beyond the mainstream, offering a chance to discover hidden gems.
- The Bottle Shop Plymouth: Located in the heart of the city, The Bottle Shop is a haven for craft beer lovers. They stock an impressive range of beers from around the world, and I’ve often spotted some excellent Australian craft breweries on their shelves. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and always happy to offer recommendations. It’s worth checking their current stock online at dropt.beer/shop/ before you visit, as their selection can change frequently.
- Independent Off-Licences in Local Neighbourhoods: Keep an eye out for smaller, independent off-licences in areas like Mutley Plain or Stoke. While they might not have the vast selection of a dedicated craft beer store, they sometimes carry a surprising range of imported beers, including popular Australian brands. A friendly chat with the owner can often lead you to a great find.
Supermarkets with Extensive Beer Aisles
While not their primary focus, larger supermarkets in Plymouth can be a convenient place to pick up some well-known Australian beers, especially during summer or special promotions.
- Sainsbury’s (Various Locations): The larger Sainsbury’s stores, particularly those at Derriford or Peverel, often have a more extensive imported beer section. You might find staples like Coopers or Carlton United Breweries (CUB) products here.
- Tesco (Various Locations): Similar to Sainsbury’s, the larger Tesco Extra stores in and around Plymouth (like the one at Roborough) can surprise you with their international beer selections. It’s always worth a browse.
- Morrisons (Various Locations): Morrisons sometimes has a good selection of imported beers, and their focus on value means you might find a good deal on an Australian favourite.
Insider Tip: Supermarket selections change seasonally. Check around major holidays or the summer months for an increased chance of finding Australian beers.
Pubs and Bars with International Beer Menus
Sometimes, the best way to enjoy Australian beer is right at the source – in a pub! While finding a pub that exclusively stocks Australian beer is rare, many establishments pride themselves on offering a diverse range of international lagers and ales.
- The Fishermans Arms: This traditional pub on the Barbican often has a good selection of guest ales and international lagers. While they might not always have Australian beers on tap, they occasionally feature them as guest bottles. It’s a great place to soak in some local atmosphere while searching.
- The Bread and Roses: Known for its community feel and excellent selection of craft and real ales, The Bread and Roses sometimes dips into the international market. It’s worth checking their rotating taps and bottled selection. Their commitment to quality suggests they might source interesting imports.
- Craft Beer Bars in the City Centre: Explore the pubs and bars around the city centre, particularly those that promote themselves as craft beer destinations. Places like BrewDog Plymouth (while a chain, they have a vast and varied selection, sometimes including Australian craft) are worth a visit. You never know when a brewery from Down Under might pop up on their menu.
Online Retailers and Delivery Services
For the ultimate convenience and the widest selection, online shopping is your best friend. There are dedicated online beer retailers that deliver right to your door in Plymouth.
- Dropt.Beer: This is a fantastic resource for discovering and purchasing Australian craft beers. They have a wide range of unique brews you might not find elsewhere. Their website, dropt.beer/, offers a curated selection, and you can often find detailed information about each beer. It’s an excellent platform for exploring the breadth of Australian brewing innovation. They also have a great section on insights and news which can help you learn more about the beers you’re buying.
- Other Online Craft Beer Retailers: Many other online UK-based craft beer retailers will stock Australian beers. Searching for specific breweries or styles on sites like Beer Hawk, HonestBrew, or BrewDog’s online shop can yield results. Always check their delivery areas and costs to Plymouth.
Popular Australian Beer Brands to Look For
When you’re on the hunt, keep an eye out for these iconic and popular Australian beers:
- XXXX (Four X): A Queensland staple, often referred to as ‘XXXX Gold’. It’s a classic, easy-drinking lager.
- Victoria Bitter (VB): Another iconic lager, widely popular across Australia. Known for its refreshing taste.
- Coopers: Particularly famous for their Pale Ale, which uses a unique top-fermenting yeast to create a distinctive cloudy appearance and fruity flavour. Their Sparkling Ale is also a classic.
- Carlton Dry: A crisp, dry lager from the Carlton & United Breweries.
- Tooheys: New South Wales’ answer to VB, with Tooheys New being a popular choice.
- Australian Craft Breweries: Look for names like Stone & Wood, Balter, Feral Brewing Co., Modus Operandi, and Philter Brewing for more contemporary craft options. These often showcase unique hops and brewing techniques.
Tips for Enjoying Your Australian Brew in Plymouth
- Check the Date: Especially for imported beers, ensure you’re checking the best-before or bottling date for optimal freshness.
- Serve Properly: Australian lagers are often best served chilled, while craft ales might benefit from being slightly warmer to release their aromas. Read the label for serving suggestions.
- Pair with Food: Australian beers pair wonderfully with BBQs, seafood, or even a hearty steak. If you’re ordering in or planning a meal, consider what kind of Australian flavours might complement your beer. Think lamb chops or a classic Aussie meat pie!
- Explore the Local Scene: While you’re searching for Australian beer, take the time to explore Plymouth’s fantastic local pubs and breweries. Discovering local craft is just as rewarding!
The Plymouth Connection
Plymouth’s history is intertwined with exploration and seafaring, dating back to the Mayflower voyage. This spirit of venturing out across the globe perhaps explains why our city has such a diverse offering of international goods, including beers from distant shores like Australia. It’s a testament to Plymouth’s cosmopolitan nature that you can find a taste of Australia right here.
Final Thoughts
Finding authentic Australian beer in Plymouth is certainly achievable with a little searching. Whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping via dropt.beer/, the curated selection at specialty shops, or a bit of luck at your local supermarket or pub, you’re bound to find a brew to satisfy your craving. So, grab a cold one, relax, and enjoy a little slice of Australia right here on the South coast. Cheers!