As Goa’s cool winter nights set in, there’s no better way to unwind than with locally crafted beer or wine. Goa’s craft beverage scene has flourished, offering drinks that reflect the region’s laid-back vibe and natural ingredients. Here are some must-try craft beers and wines perfect for a cozy evening.
Goan Craft Beers: A Burst of Local Flavor
Goa’s craft beer scene has seen significant growth, with local breweries offering unique brews that celebrate the region’s flavors and ingredients. Eight Finger Eddie by Goa Brewing Co. is a hazy, tropical IPA packed with fruity, citrusy flavors and a mild bitterness, making it a great choice to pair with spicy Goan seafood like prawns. For a lighter option, People’s Lager by Susegado is a refreshing lager with a smooth taste, perfect for a cool evening and best enjoyed with grilled fish, salads, or vegetable fritters.
Another standout is Kokum Gose by Maka Di, a sour beer that incorporates kokum, giving it a tart, fruity flavor with a hint of salt, which pairs wonderfully with spicy dishes like Goan pork sausages. For those who prefer darker beers, Saint & Sinner by Goa Brewing Co. is an indulgent stout with deep notes of chocolate, coffee, and caramel, making it the ideal drink for colder nights, best enjoyed with chocolate desserts or grilled meats to complement its rich, complex flavors.
Local Goan Wines: Sun-Kissed and Flavorful
Goa’s wineries are producing distinctive wines that beautifully capture the region’s unique climate and terroir. Sula Dindori Reserve Shiraz is a full-bodied red wine with rich flavors of dark berries, spices, and a touch of oak. Making it an excellent pairing with grilled meats or Goan lamb dishes. Big Banyan Merlot offers a smooth, aromatic profile with notes of blackcurrant and cherry. Which complements the bold flavors of Goan chorizo or a hearty beef stew. For a lighter option, Fratelli Sangiovese Bianco is a refreshing white wine with tropical fruit notes of peach and apricot. It is perfect for pairing with seafood dishes like prawn balchão. Lastly, Port Wine, a sweet and fruity local fortified wine, is often enjoyed as a dessert wine, and it pairs wonderfully with traditional Goan sweets like bebinca, adding a delightful finish to any meal.
Wine and Beer Tasting Experiences in Goa
To fully immerse yourself in Goa’s craft beer and wine scene. You can consider visiting local breweries and wineries that offer tastings and tours. At the Goa Brewing Co. Taproom in Sangolda, you can sample their signature beers in a cozy atmosphere. It is often accompanied by live music, creating a lively experience. Susegado Brewery Tours in South Goa provide an opportunity to learn about the brewing process. While enjoying their refreshing lagers in a relaxed environment that matches their brand’s laid-back vibe. For wine lovers, both Big Banyan and Sula Vineyards offer scenic tours of their estates. Where you can explore the winemaking process and sample their range of wines. With all set against the backdrop of Goa’s beautiful landscapes.
Perfect Pairings for Cool Goan Nights
Goa’s craft beers and wines offer a wide range of flavors, perfect for pairing with the region’s rich cuisine. Whether you’re at a beach shack or a cozy café, these drinks enhance the Goan experience.
