Australian Beer

Australian Beer

Reputed to have the highest per capita beer consumption in the world after the Germans, Australians drink an enormous range of beers, including lager, bitter, and stout.

Each state has its own principal brewer. In NSW (New South Wales) it’s Tooheys, in Victoria it’s Carlton and United Breweries (brewer of Fosters), in Queensland XXXX, and so on. A new generation of boutique brewers such as Red Back, Coopers, and Hahn have also sprung up.

Ordering beer at an Australian pub is complicated. Tap beer is served in glasses called schooners, ponies, pots, handles, midis, and even glasses. If in doubt, ask for a bottle of beer from the bar fridge. Most Australians drink straight from the bottle: you’ll have to ask for a glass. Except in first-class hotels, never leave a tip.

Some country pubs still serve a traditional lunch or beer garden barbecue, but don’t count on it. Unlike their British counterparts, many Australian pubs regard the consumption of food as an unnecessary distraction from solid beer drinking.