Yakutsk, the capital of Sakha Republic (Yakutia), may be known for its harsh winters and remote wilderness, but it also offers a growing and vibrant craft beverage scene. Yakut beer and local craft beverages are gaining popularity, as the region is known for its rich cultural traditions and innovative brewers who are experimenting with locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Siberian brews or experimental craft beers, Yakutsk offers a variety of places to sample these drinks.
Here’s a guide to where you can find the best local beer and Yakut craft beverages in Yakutsk, and what makes them special.
1. Yakutsk Brewing Company (Yakutskiy Pivovar)
The Yakutsk Brewing Company, known locally as Yakutskiy Pivovar, is one of the leading producers of craft beer in the region. They focus on creating high-quality beer with locally sourced ingredients, highlighting the unique flavors of Yakutia.
Why Visit:
- Local Ingredients: Yakutskiy Pivovar uses traditional Siberian ingredients, such as wild berries and local grains, to craft its beers. You can find brews made with cloudberries, lingonberries, and other native flora, which give these beers a distinctive flavor profile.
- Variety of Beers: The brewery offers a wide range of beers, including pilsners, IPAs, and dark ales, as well as seasonal and specialty brews.
- Tours and Tastings: Visit the brewery for a guided tour of the brewing process and enjoy beer tastings where you can try a variety of their craft beers.
Notable Beers:
- Yakutsk Amber Ale: A smooth, medium-bodied ale with hints of caramel and dark fruit flavors.
- Arctic IPA: A bitter, hoppy IPA with a refreshing citrus finish, made with wild Siberian herbs.
Location:
- Yakutsk Brewing Company is located in Yakutsk, and tours are typically arranged through local travel agencies or directly at the brewery.
2. Craft Beer Bars in Yakutsk
Several local craft beer bars in Yakutsk offer a selection of both regional and international craft beers, providing the perfect place to explore Yakutia’s burgeoning craft beer scene.
Why Visit:
- Selection of Local Brews: Many craft beer bars in Yakutsk carry a selection of local beers, often featuring brews from Yakutskiy Pivovar and other small, independent breweries in the region.
- Unique Atmosphere: These bars are designed to offer a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, where you can meet locals, enjoy live music, and sample a wide variety of craft beers.
Popular Craft Beer Bars:
- Kochum Craft Beer Bar: A popular spot for beer enthusiasts, offering a variety of craft beers on tap, including local Yakut brews and international options.
- Brewery Pub: Known for offering a large selection of local beers, this pub allows patrons to enjoy unique Yakut ales in a cozy setting.
- Beerhouse Yakutsk: A lively place with a great selection of both local and Russian craft beers, along with Siberian snacks to pair with your drink.
Location:
- These bars are scattered throughout Yakutsk, especially in the city center, making them easily accessible for visitors.
3. Alas Craft Brewery
Alas Craft Brewery is another notable craft beer producer in Yakutsk. They focus on small-batch brewing, experimenting with traditional recipes and unique ingredients to create beers that are distinctly Yakut in character.
Why Visit:
- Innovative Brews: Alas Craft Brewery is known for experimenting with local flavors and ingredients such as wild herbs and mushrooms, which are often infused into their beers for a truly local taste.
- Intimate Setting: The brewery offers a small-scale and intimate experience, where you can meet the brewers and hear about their creative process.
Notable Beers:
- Siberian Rye Pale Ale: A smooth and earthy beer made with rye and a combination of Siberian herbs.
- Northern Lights Stout: A rich stout brewed with locally sourced berries and coffee beans, providing a complex flavor profile.
Location:
- Alas Craft Brewery is located in Yakutsk, and visits are typically arranged via bookings.
4. Local Markets and Stores for Yakut Beverages
If you’re interested in trying Yakut’s local beverages in the comfort of your hotel or apartment, local markets and specialty stores are excellent places to purchase craft beer and traditional Yakut drinks to enjoy at your leisure.
Why Visit:
- Local Flavor: The markets offer a variety of regional beverages, including both craft beers and traditional Yakut drinks such as kymys (fermented mare’s milk) and morus (fermented grape drink), giving you an authentic taste of Yakutia.
- Convenience: Many of the local grocery stores and markets sell both bottled and canned Yakut beers, making them easy to take home or enjoy while exploring the city.
Where to Shop:
- Yakutsk Central Market: Known for selling local food products and beverages, including Yakut beer and traditional alcoholic drinks like kymys and morus.
- Siberian Grocery Stores: Many stores in Yakutsk specialize in regional products, offering a selection of Yakut beers and other craft beverages from local breweries.
Location:
- The Yakutsk Central Market is located in the city center, and local grocery stores can be found throughout the city.
5. Traditional Yakut Alcoholic Beverages
Aside from beer, Yakutsk is home to a variety of traditional alcoholic beverages, many of which are made from local ingredients and have been enjoyed by the Yakut people for centuries. Some of the most unique drinks to try include:
Kymys (Fermented Mare’s Milk):
- Kymys is a traditional Yakut beverage made by fermenting mare’s milk. It has a slightly alcoholic content and is often consumed during celebrations and festivals. You can find kymys at local markets, restaurants, and festivals in Yakutsk.
Morus (Fermented Grape Drink):
- Morus is a sweet fermented drink made from wild grapes in Yakutia. It has a moderate alcohol content and a fruity flavor, perfect for those looking for something unique.
Chacha (Yakut Vodka):
- Chacha is a grain-based vodka that is typically infused with local herbs or wild berries. This traditional spirit is widely available in Yakutsk and is often served in small glasses during social gatherings.
Where to Try These Beverages:
- Yakutsk Restaurants and Cafes: Many local restaurants and cafes serve traditional Yakut drinks such as kymys, morus, and chacha alongside local food.
- Markets: Yakutsk Central Market offers fresh kymys and bottles of morus, allowing you to try these beverages straight from the source.
Conclusion
Yakutsk offers a fascinating and authentic selection of local beers and craft beverages that reflect the unique flavors and ingredients of the Sakha Republic. Whether you’re sampling a wild berry-infused IPA at a local craft beer bar, exploring the flavors of kymys or morus at a market, or visiting one of the local breweries, Yakutsk provides a rich and diverse drinking experience that celebrates its Arctic heritage. Take the time to explore Yakutsk’s craft scene and enjoy the flavors of this remote Siberian region!
