Tesco, one of the UK’s largest supermarket chains, has long been a go-to destination for shoppers in search of a wide variety of products, including a vast selection of beers. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a lager lover, or someone looking for a unique brew to try, Tesco offers a range of options to satisfy every palate. In this article, we’ll explore what beers are currently on offer in Tesco, breaking down the categories, types, and some of the most popular and distinctive choices available. From well-known international brands to local brews, Tesco’s beer selection is as diverse as it is accessible.
The Diversity of Tesco’s Beer Selection
A Comprehensive Range of Beer Styles
Tesco’s beer aisle is a treasure trove for beer lovers, offering an impressive selection across a variety of styles. The store stocks everything from classic lagers and ales to IPAs, stouts, wheat beers, and seasonal brews. This broad range is reflective of the growing interest in craft beers, with Tesco making a concerted effort to cater to both traditional beer drinkers and those looking to try new, adventurous flavours.
Lagers and Pilsners
Lagers are one of the most popular beer styles worldwide, and Tesco offers a range of well-known and high-quality lagers. These beers are known for their crisp, clean taste, making them a perfect choice for many occasions, from a BBQ to a relaxing evening at home.
Carlsberg Lager – A classic lager with a refreshing taste, Carlsberg is one of the most well-known brands globally. It’s light and easy-drinking, making it a staple in many households.
Heineken – Another popular international lager, Heineken has a distinctive bitter flavour and slightly hoppy finish. It’s known for its consistency and is often chosen for social gatherings and events.
Tesco’s Own Brand Lagers – For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, Tesco’s own-brand lagers offer great value for money while maintaining a solid flavour. Tesco’s “Finest” range of lagers, for instance, is brewed to a high standard and provides a satisfying alternative to more expensive brands.
Ales: The Heart of British Beer
Ales are perhaps the most quintessentially British style of beer, and Tesco offers an array of options, from traditional bitters to more modern pale ales.
Fuller’s London Pride – A true British classic, London Pride is a well-balanced pale ale that combines malt sweetness with a smooth bitterness. Fuller’s has long been one of the most respected brewers in the UK, and London Pride is a standout example of the craft.
Timothy Taylor’s Landlord – This is another excellent choice for ale lovers. A pale ale brewed in Yorkshire, Landlord is known for its full-bodied malt flavour and refreshing citrus notes, making it a favourite among fans of traditional ales.
BrewDog Pale Ale – For those who enjoy more modern takes on British ale, BrewDog offers a number of hoppy and exciting brews. Their pale ales are loaded with punchy flavours and provide a distinctly fresh and bold drinking experience.
IPAs: The Craft Beer Revolution
India Pale Ales (IPAs) have experienced a huge surge in popularity in recent years, thanks to the craft beer movement. Tesco has embraced this trend, offering a variety of IPAs from both well-established and emerging breweries.
Beavertown Neck Oil – A highly popular IPA that has won numerous awards, Neck Oil is known for its tropical fruit aromas and crisp bitterness. This beer is ideal for those who enjoy the hop-forward, refreshing character typical of modern IPAs.
BrewDog Punk IPA – BrewDog’s flagship IPA, Punk IPA, offers a unique balance of bitterness and citrus flavours. With notes of tropical fruits and a bold hop profile, this beer is perfect for IPA enthusiasts looking for a distinct and flavourful brew.
Tesco’s Own Brand IPA – Tesco’s commitment to offering craft beer options extends to its own-brand IPA range. The supermarket’s IPA offering is designed to give customers a great-tasting beer at a more accessible price point, without compromising on quality.
Stouts: Rich, Dark, and Decadent
For those with a preference for dark beers, stouts are the ultimate indulgence. Known for their rich, roasted flavours, stouts often have hints of chocolate, coffee, and caramel.
Guinness – The world’s most famous stout, Guinness is a smooth, creamy beer with roasted barley and subtle coffee notes. It’s a timeless classic, and Tesco ensures it’s always available on its shelves.
Murphy’s Irish Stout – Another well-loved Irish stout, Murphy’s is slightly sweeter than Guinness, with a rich malty character and a smooth finish. It’s a great option for anyone looking to enjoy a dark beer with a bit of sweetness.
Tesco’s Own Brand Stouts – If you’re on a budget or simply want to explore different options, Tesco’s own-brand stouts offer a great balance of flavour and value. While less well-known than the big brands, these stouts are a solid choice for casual drinkers.
Wheat Beers: Light and Refreshing
Wheat beers are often lighter in colour and flavour, with a smooth, slightly fruity character. They are perfect for warmer weather or when you’re looking for a beer that’s a little less intense.
Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier – Brewed by the world’s oldest brewery in Germany, this hefeweizen is a rich, smooth wheat beer that features aromas of banana and clove. It’s the perfect introduction to wheat beers for anyone unfamiliar with the style.
Hoegaarden – A Belgian wheat beer that is known for its cloudy appearance and citrusy, spicy flavour profile. Hoegaarden has been a popular choice among beer drinkers for years, and its distinctive flavour makes it a standout in Tesco’s beer selection.
Tesco’s Own Brand Wheat Beers – Like its lagers and stouts, Tesco also offers wheat beers under its own brand. These provide an excellent alternative for those looking for a quality beer at a more affordable price.
Craft Beer: The Thriving Scene in Tesco
The rise of the craft beer scene has been a global phenomenon, and Tesco is fully on board with offering a broad range of craft beers. From quirky flavours to experimental brewing techniques, craft beer is perfect for those who like to try something new and adventurous.
Popular Craft Beer Brands at Tesco
Cloudwater – One of the most influential breweries in the UK, Cloudwater’s beers are known for their innovative flavours and commitment to quality. Whether you’re drinking one of their juicy IPAs or a hop-forward pale ale, their beers are sure to impress.
Magic Rock – Based in Huddersfield, Magic Rock is known for its creative and bold beers. From fruity pale ales to full-bodied stouts, they offer a diverse range that appeals to a wide variety of tastes.
Tiny Rebel – A Welsh brewery that has garnered a huge following, Tiny Rebel’s beers are playful and packed with flavour. Their flagship beer, Cwtch, is a smooth, easy-drinking red ale that has become a fan favourite.
Seasonal Beers: A Taste of the Time of Year
Tesco also stocks a range of seasonal beers that are only available at certain times of the year. These brews often reflect the changing seasons and holidays, offering limited-time flavours that fans eagerly anticipate.
Christmas Beers
At Christmas, Tesco brings out a selection of festive beers that are perfect for holiday gatherings. From spiced ales to rich stouts, these seasonal offerings provide a warming, celebratory drinking experience.
Sam Smith’s Winter Welcome – A warming ale with rich malt flavours, this seasonal brew is perfect for the colder months. With notes of toffee and a touch of spice, it captures the essence of winter in a bottle.
Tesco’s Finest Christmas Ale – Tesco’s own Christmas ale is another excellent option for the holiday season. Rich, malty, and slightly sweet, this beer is a great choice for pairing with hearty winter dishes.
Summer Beers
As the warmer months approach, Tesco introduces a range of lighter, more refreshing beers that are perfect for sipping on a sunny afternoon.
Peroni Nastro Azzurro – An Italian lager that is crisp, refreshing, and light on the palate, Peroni is a great choice for summer. It pairs well with lighter foods such as salads and seafood.
Tesco’s Finest Summer Ale – Tesco’s own summer ale is crafted with a focus on lightness and drinkability. With a touch of citrus and a smooth finish, it’s the perfect beer to enjoy while relaxing in the sun.
Premium Beers: For a Special Occasion
For those looking to treat themselves or celebrate a special occasion, Tesco offers a range of premium beers that stand out for their quality and exclusivity.
Belgian Beers
Belgium is renowned for its beer culture, and Tesco stocks a selection of high-quality Belgian brews that showcase the country’s brewing tradition.
Chimay Blue – A Belgian Trappist beer, Chimay Blue is a strong dark ale with deep, rich flavours of caramel, dark fruit, and malt. It’s a perfect beer for special occasions or when you want to experience something unique.
Duvel – This Belgian golden ale is famous for its balance of fruity sweetness and sharp bitterness. It’s a premium beer that offers a refined drinking experience.
International Beers
Tesco also stocks a range of premium beers from around the world, allowing you to experience global beer styles without leaving your local supermarket.
Corona Extra – A light and refreshing lager from Mexico, Corona is often enjoyed with a wedge of lime for an extra citrusy kick. It’s perfect for warm weather and outdoor socializing.
Asahi Super Dry – A Japanese lager with a clean, crisp finish, Asahi is a premium beer that pairs well with sushi and other Japanese cuisine.
Conclusion
Tesco’s beer selection is a reflection of the growing diversity in the world of beer. Whether you prefer light lagers, rich stouts, or experimental craft brews, Tesco offers something for every taste and occasion. With a wide range of local and international beers, budget-friendly options, and premium choices, Tesco has firmly established itself as a reliable destination for beer enthusiasts.
By stocking both popular global brands and exciting new craft beers, Tesco ensures that shoppers can explore the world of beer with ease. Whether you’re looking to try something new or enjoy an old favourite, Tesco’s beer aisle provides an array of options to suit your needs. The next time you find yourself at Tesco, make sure to take a moment to explore their beer offerings – there’s always something new to discover!
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