Russia may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of pale ales, but the country’s burgeoning craft beer scene has made pale ales an increasingly popular choice for both locals and tourists alike. Russian pale ales offer a refreshing, hoppy experience that balances bitterness with fruity and floral notes, offering a unique take on this beloved style. If you’re visiting Russia and are a fan of pale ales, this guide will help you discover the best brews the country has to offer. From classic Russian interpretations to innovative craft styles, Russian pale ales are definitely worth exploring.
What Makes Russian Pale Ales Unique?
Russian pale ales may share similarities with those brewed in other parts of the world, but they carry distinct qualities influenced by local ingredients, climate, and brewing techniques. What sets Russian pale ales apart is the influence of Russia’s natural resources, regional hops, and brewing methods that are both traditional and modern. Many of Russia’s craft breweries embrace a local flair by experimenting with regional hops and unique malt blends, making Russian pale ales a must-try for visitors.
- Hops: While many pale ales around the world use American or European hops, Russian pale ales tend to incorporate locally grown varieties, giving them a fresher, regional taste.
- Malts: The use of Russian-grown barley and other grains adds to the uniqueness of the malt character, resulting in a slight sweetness or biscuit-like note that balances the hop bitterness.
- Alcohol Content: Russian pale ales tend to have moderate to high alcohol content, often ranging between 4-6% ABV, making them easy to enjoy without being overwhelming.
Must-Try Russian Pale Ales
Now that you have an idea of what makes Russian pale ales special, let’s dive into some of the standout brews you should try when visiting Russia. These beers are from some of the most well-regarded craft breweries in the country and will give you a true taste of Russia’s evolving beer scene.
1. Khamovniki Pale Ale
Khamovniki Brewery in Moscow is at the forefront of the Russian craft beer revolution, and their Khamovniki Pale Ale is one of the best examples of Russian pale ales. Known for its hop-forward flavor and refreshing bitterness, this pale ale is a favorite for craft beer lovers across the country.
- Tasting Notes: Expect a blend of citrus, floral, and piney notes with a noticeable bitterness that balances well with a smooth malt body. It has a clean finish with hints of caramel and a subtle dry aftertaste.
- Why You Should Try It: Khamovniki Pale Ale is a fantastic choice for those looking to experience the best of Russian craft brewing. It offers a perfect balance of hoppy bitterness and malty sweetness, making it an excellent introduction to Russian pale ales.
- Where to Find It: Available at craft beer bars in Moscow, as well as in various restaurants and pubs that specialize in local craft beers.
2. Vasileostrovskaya Pale Ale
Produced by Vasileostrovskaya Brewery in St. Petersburg, Vasileostrovskaya Pale Ale is a well-known and widely respected pale ale. This brewery has been gaining popularity for its high-quality beers, and their pale ale is a standout offering in their diverse beer lineup.
- Tasting Notes: Vasileostrovskaya Pale Ale is known for its balanced bitterness, with aromatic hops providing floral and citrus notes. The malt base is light but provides a touch of sweetness that complements the hops without overpowering them.
- Why You Should Try It: If you’re exploring the craft beer scene in St. Petersburg, this pale ale is a must-try. It’s a well-balanced, approachable beer that’s perfect for those looking to try a Russian take on the pale ale style.
- Where to Find It: You can find Vasileostrovskaya Pale Ale in bars and pubs in St. Petersburg and other major cities. It’s also available in select craft beer shops.
3. Victory Ale by Tinkoff Brewery
While Tinkoff Brewery is known for its high-quality lagers, the Victory Ale stands out as their pale ale offering. Tinkoff Brewery has made a name for itself in Russia’s craft beer scene with its premium brews, and the Victory Ale is a testament to their commitment to quality.
- Tasting Notes: Victory Ale is a pale ale with a bold hop profile, featuring grapefruit, pine, and tropical fruit aromas. It has a moderate bitterness that balances out the fruity flavors, resulting in a refreshing and easy-drinking beer.
- Why You Should Try It: Tinkoff is one of Russia’s most innovative breweries, and their pale ale is a prime example of their ability to produce high-quality beers that are accessible yet full of flavor.
- Where to Find It: Tinkoff beers, including the Victory Ale, are widely available in major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, in both pubs and supermarkets.
4. Craft Republic Pale Ale
Craft Republic Brewery, located in Moscow, is a beloved brewery that has gained a following for its high-quality, flavorful craft beers. Their Pale Ale is a favorite among local beer lovers and visitors alike, with a distinctive hop profile that captures the essence of the craft beer movement in Russia.
- Tasting Notes: Craft Republic Pale Ale is known for its lively and aromatic hop character, with bright citrus and pine flavors. The beer has a balanced bitterness that is neither too harsh nor too mild, making it a perfect example of a well-rounded pale ale.
- Why You Should Try It: Craft Republic’s pale ale is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the more experimental side of Russian brewing. The brewery’s commitment to using quality ingredients and unique hops makes this a standout beer in Moscow.
- Where to Find It: Craft Republic Pale Ale is available at Craft Republic bars and other craft beer spots throughout Moscow. You can also find it in select beer shops and supermarkets.
5. Bogatyr Pale Ale
Bogatyr Brewery, based in southern Russia, produces a range of beers with a focus on traditional flavors combined with a modern craft beer touch. Their Bogatyr Pale Ale is an excellent example of Russian pale ale craftsmanship.
- Tasting Notes: This pale ale is medium-bodied, with notes of grapefruit, orange peel, and pine. The bitterness is pronounced but balanced by a slight sweetness from the malt base, making it a refreshing and complex beer.
- Why You Should Try It: Bogatyr Brewery is well-regarded for its commitment to quality and local ingredients. This pale ale is a great representation of the brewery’s ability to blend traditional Russian brewing with craft beer innovation.
- Where to Find It: You can find Bogatyr Pale Ale in craft beer bars across Russia, particularly in southern regions, as well as in Moscow and St. Petersburg.
Where to Find Russian Pale Ales
If you’re visiting Russia and want to sample the country’s pale ales, you’ll find them in a variety of places:
- Craft Beer Bars: Moscow and St. Petersburg have thriving craft beer scenes, with bars dedicated to serving local and international craft brews. Bars like Craft Republic, Beer Yard, and Vasileostrovskaya often feature Russian pale ales alongside other styles.
- Supermarkets and Beer Shops: Many Russian supermarkets and beer shops stock a range of locally brewed pale ales. If you’re looking to buy beer for your hotel or apartment, you can find bottles or cans from most of the breweries mentioned above.
- Restaurants and Pubs: Many Russian restaurants, especially those with a focus on local cuisine, will offer a selection of craft beers, including pale ales. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for recommendations.
Conclusion
Russian pale ales offer a unique and refreshing experience for beer lovers. From the hop-forward flavors of Khamovniki Pale Ale to the smooth bitterness of Tinkoff’s Victory Ale, Russian brewers are creating beers that reflect the country’s rich brewing heritage and the growing craft beer movement. Whether you’re enjoying a pale ale at a Moscow craft beer bar or exploring regional brews in St. Petersburg, these beers are a must-try for anyone looking to discover the vibrant flavors of Russian brewing. Cheers to your exploration of Russian pale ales!