The story of Colombian beer begins in 1889 with the establishment of Bavaria Brewery by Leo S. Kopp, a German immigrant. This brewery, which has since become Colombia’s largest and most influential, is responsible for producing some of the country’s most popular beer brands, such as Águila and Club Colombia.
In the early 20th century, beer consumption rose significantly as the Colombian government promoted beer as a safer alternative to traditional homemade alcoholic beverages like chicha. This shift was part of a broader public health campaign aimed at reducing the consumption of unregulated and often unsafe alcoholic drinks.
During the mid-20th century, the beer industry in Colombia consolidated, with Bavaria Brewery dominating the market. The brewery played a crucial role in modernizing beer production and distribution in the country, introducing advanced brewing techniques and expanding its product range.
The late 20th and early 21st centuries witnessed a significant shift in the Colombian beer landscape with the rise of the craft beer movement. Inspired by global trends and a growing interest in artisanal products, small breweries like Bogotá Beer Company and Tres Cordilleras began to produce craft beers.
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Table of Contents
Colombian Beer
Águila is one of the most popular and widely consumed beers in Colombia. This light lager is renowned for its crisp and refreshing taste, making it a staple at social gatherings and national celebrations. Its approachable flavor profile and wide availability have cemented its status as a beloved choice among Colombian beer drinkers.
Club Colombia is a premium beer brand that offers a variety of styles, including Dorada (Golden Lager), Roja (Red Lager), and Negra (Dark Lager). Celebrated for its high quality and distinctive flavors, Club Colombia caters to more discerning palates and is often associated with a higher-end beer experience.
Poker is another widely consumed beer in Colombia, known for its smooth and mild lager profile. It is widespread nationwide and often seen as a casual, everyday beer.
Costeña
Originating from the Caribbean coast, Costeña is a light and crisp lager particularly popular in coastal regions. Its refreshing taste makes it an ideal choice for warm weather.
Pilsen
Pilsen is one of the oldest beer brands in Colombia. It boasts a long history and a loyal following, especially in the Medellín region. This traditional lager is known for its balanced flavor and smooth finish, maintaining its popularity through decades of Colombian beer culture.
Cerveza Andina
Cerveza Andina is a relatively new brand that is quickly gaining popularity in Colombia. It offers a modern and fresh take on Colombian beer, appealing particularly to younger consumers.
Colombian craft beer brands
The craft beer scene in Colombia has experienced significant growth in recent years, reflecting the country’s vibrant and diverse brewing culture. With over 150 microbreweries spread nationwide, Colombia offers an impressive array of craft beers catering to various tastes and preferences. Below is a selection of some of the most popular and noteworthy Colombian craft beer brands.
Bogotá Beer Company (BBC)
As one of Colombia’s leading craft breweries, Bogotá Beer Company (BBC) offers a diverse portfolio of beers, including lagers, IPAs, bitters, stouts, and witbiers. BBC is well-known for its extensive network of brewpubs nationwide, making it accessible to a broad audience and a staple in Colombia’s craft beer scene.
3 Cordilleras
Based in Medellín, 3 Cordilleras Brewery offers a diverse range of artisanal beers, including Mestiza (American Pale Ale), Blanca (Wheat Ale), Mulata (Amber Ale), Negra (Sweet Stout), and Rosada (Rosé). Visitors can sample all their beers directly at the brewery while enjoying live music.
Apóstol
Specializing in traditional German-style beers, Apóstol offers high-quality brews such as Helles, Weizen, Marzen, Dubbel, and Bock. Apóstol beers have become a favorite among connoisseurs of German beer styles because of their authenticity and adherence to brewing traditions.
Chelarte
Located in Bogotá, Chelarte is a creative brewery renowned for its unique approach to brewing. Each of their beer styles is personified by a different character, adding a distinct and playful identity to their offerings. However, their Instagram account has been inactive recently, so it’s unclear if they are still operational.
Nevada Cervecería
Situated on the La Victoria Coffee Plantation in Minca, Nevada, Cervecería produces unique beers like Happy Nebbi (a Pilsner), Happy Tucán (an Irish Red Ale), Happy Coca (a Pale Ale brewed with coca leaves), and Happy Colibrí (a Coffee Stout). Their use of local ingredients and creative brewing methods set them apart in the craft beer market.
Non Grata
Known for its unconventional ingredients and high alcohol content, Non Grata aims to offer a gastronomic experience through its brews, such as Jack The Ripper. This brewery is noted for its bold flavors and commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing.
La Milagrosa
Inspired by Colombian grandmothers, La Milagrosa produces craft beers that honor family traditions. Their offerings, such as India Pale Ale, are crafted with care and attention to detail, reflecting the brewery’s dedication to quality and cultural heritage.
20Mission Cerveza
Based in Medellín, 20Mission Cerveza produces various beers, including Blonde, Witbier, Pale Ale, Porter, IPA, Saison, ginger beer, and tonic water. Their bar is located in the Ciudad del Rio, El Poblado.
Cervecería Tomahawk
Known for its American Pale Ale with a distinctive wolf label, Cervecería Tomahawk also offers various other styles that are popular among craft beer enthusiasts.
Cervecería Libre
Operating pubs in Manila, Mercado del Rio and Barrio Colombia, Medellín, Cervecería Libre offers a variety of tap beers such as Libre IPA and several seasonal brews.
Moonshine Brewery
Located in Bogotá, Moonshine Brewery produces a range of craft beers known for their bold flavors and high-quality ingredients. They brew Witbier, Amber Ale, IPA, Pepper Ale, and a Brown Ale.
Cervecería Gigante
Based in Cali, Cervecería Gigante is renowned for its robust lineup of craft beers, including IPAs, porters, and seasonal specialties.
Supermarket beer brands
Colombia’s supermarket shelves offer a selection of beer brands that cater to various budgets.
Prima
Prima is a beer crafted by Font Salem in Portugal. Known for its distinctive character, Prima boasts a whole body and smooth taste, making it a standout choice among supermarket offerings.
Bahia
Bahía, a Colombian lager beer produced by Bavaria, contains 4.00% alcohol and low bitterness. Often compared to Águila Light in terms of flavor, it is priced at ca $1,690 COP per unit, making it an affordable and popular option.
Azteca
Azteca is a Colombian beer inspired by Mexican recipes. This golden pilsner lager, with an ABV of 4.2%, offers a mild bitterness and a pleasant flavor.
Brunonia Weidmann
Brunonia is a German lager with an ABV of 4.8%. It offers a refreshing taste with sufficient bitterness to appeal to those who enjoy this flavor profile. Priced at $1,990 COP per unit, Brunonia provides a quality beer at an affordable price.
Colombian Liquors
Central to Colombian social and festive traditions is aguardiente (guaro), an anise-flavored spirit widely consumed across the country. This spirit plays a pivotal role in various celebrations and is integral to Colombian cultural identity. In addition to aguardiente, Colombia is renowned for its production of high-quality rums, known for their smoothness and complex flavor profiles.
Furthermore, traditional fermented beverages such as chicha and masato, though less commonly consumed today, remain important aspects of Colombia’s historical and cultural beverage practices. These drinks, made from ingredients like corn and rice, have been enjoyed since pre-Columbian times and continue to be appreciated for their historical significance and unique flavors.
Aguardiente Colombiano
Aguardiente is a generic term for various distilled spirits from the Iberian Peninsula and Central and South America. In Colombia, aguardiente is a sugarcane spirit flavored with anise, primarily associated with the Andean region. This potent drink, typically around 30% ABV, is known for its smooth, crisp, and herbal character, with licorice-like notes. It is usually served neat in shot glasses and sometimes incorporated into cocktails and long drinks.
Produced in Medellin by FLA, this is one of the most famous aguardientes in Colombia. Available with sugar (red), sugar free (blue) and a alcohol reduced version (green).
Aguardiente Cristal
Originating from Caldas, Aguardiente Cristal is trendy in the coffee-growing regions of Colombia.
Aguardiente Néctar
Aguardiente Néctar from Cundinamarca has various strengths, including the well-known Néctar Azul and Néctar Rojo. It is a favorite in Bogotá known for its robust anise flavor.
Aguardiente Blanco del Valle
Hailing from the Valle del Cauca region, this aguardiente is prized for its light, smooth taste and subtle anise notes. It is a popular choice for mixing in cocktails.
Aguardiente Caucano
Produced in the Cauca region, this aguardiente offers a distinct and traditional flavor. It is often enjoyed neat and is known for its strong, bold taste.
Aguardiente Llanero
From the Llanos region, this aguardiente is renowned for its robust and unique flavor profile.
Aguardiente Nariño
Originating from the Nariño region, this aguardiente is known for its distinct flavor, influenced by the local climate and ingredients. It is often enjoyed during regional festival and for hervido, a hot fruit beverage.
Aguardiente Tapa Roja
Popular in the Tolima region, Tapa Roja is distinguished by its traditional production methods and strong anise flavor.
Aguardiente Real 1493
A premium aguardiente known for its refined taste and high-quality production. It is often chosen for special occasions and sophisticated gatherings.
Aguardiente Cumbal
Cumbal is popular in the Nariño region because of its unique anise flavor and traditional production methods.
Aguardiente del Sur
As its name suggests, this aguardiente is produced in the southern regions of Colombia.
Aguardiente El Socorro
El Socorro originates from the Santander region and is recognized for its robust and traditional flavor.
Aguardiente Mil Demonios
A premium artisanal aguardiente known for its complex flavor profile. It is produced in small batches and is often chosen for its distinctive taste.
Aguardiente Supremo
Known for its superior quality and smooth finish, Supremo is a high-end aguardiente often selected for its refined taste and premium production process.
Aguardiente Platino
Celebrated for its unmistakable, clean taste and smooth texture, Platino is a popular choice for mixing in cocktails or enjoying neat.
Aguardiente 180°
A premium aguardiente with a modern twist, known for its high quality and smooth taste.
Colombian Rums
Made primarily from sugarcane, Colombian rum undergoes a meticulous distillation and aging process, often in oak barrels, which imparts a deep, complex character to the final product. Known for its smoothness and versatility, Colombian rum features notes of caramel, vanilla, and tropical fruits, making it a domestic and international favorite. It is enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a key ingredient in various cocktails, reflecting its adaptability and broad appeal.
Ron Medellín
Produced in Medellín, this rum is known for its smooth, rich flavor and is available in various aged versions, such as 3, 5, 8, and 12 years.
Ron de Caldas
Originating from the Caldas region, Ron de Caldas is celebrated for its deep, complex flavors due to its careful aging process. This rum is the most popular one in Colombia. Available in Viejo, 3, 5, 8 , and 15 years.
Dictador Rum
An internationally acclaimed premium rum, Dictador offers a range of aged rums known for their refined and sophisticated profiles. Thanks to its meticulous production and complex flavors, connoisseurs and collectors often enjoy it.
La Hechicera
This high-end rum is renowned for its unique blend of aged rums and smooth, complex taste. La Hechicera has gained international recognition for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship, making it a preferred choice for special occasions.
Ron Parce
An award-winning rum, Ron Parce is known for its smoothness and intricate flavor profile. Available in aged versions such as 8 and 12 years, it is often enjoyed neat, providing a rich and satisfying drinking experience.
Ron Santero
Known for its variety of aged and spiced rums, Ron Santero is appreciated for its rich and bold flavors. This versatile rum is famous for both sipping and mixing in cocktails, offering a robust taste experience.
Ron SantaFe
This rum is renowned for its aged and blended varieties, offering a smooth and refined taste. Ron SantaFe is a favorite among rum enthusiasts for its high quality and flavor.
Ron Gran Reserva del Libertador
A premium rum known for its meticulous aging process and rich flavors. Ron Gran Reserva del Libertador stands out for its exceptional quality and is often chosen for special occasions and sophisticated gatherings.
Ron Tres Esquinas
A traditional rum with a robust flavor profile, Ron Tres Esquinas is famous for its depth and complexity. It is often used in Colombian cocktails, adding a rich and flavorful element.
Ron Caballero
Known for its smooth and mellow taste, Ron Caballero is a versatile rum enjoyed neatly and in mixed drinks. Appreciated for its consistent quality, it is a reliable choice for many rum enthusiasts.
Ron Malibú
A well-balanced rum known for its smooth texture and subtle flavors, Ron Malibú is a popular choice for making tropical cocktails and long drinks, providing a refreshing and enjoyable taste experience.
Ron Montañero
Celebrated for its rich, full-bodied flavor, Ron Montañero is often enjoyed by those who appreciate a robust and hearty rum. It is perfect for sipping or mixing, offering a deep and satisfying flavor.
Ron Solera
This rum is known for its solera aging process, which blends rums of different ages to create a smooth and balanced flavor. Ron Solera is favored for its unique taste and high quality.
Ron Centenario
A premium rum known for its long aging process and rich, sophisticated flavors, Ron Centenario, is often chosen for special occasions. It is enjoyed neat or on the rocks, offering a refined taste experience.
Ron Plata
Known for its unmistakable, clean taste, Ron Plata is a versatile rum that can be enjoyed neat or mixed in cocktails. It is appreciated for its smooth and subtle flavor.
Ron Nativo
A traditional rum with a robust and bold flavor, Ron Nativo is famous for its depth and complexity. Those who appreciate a hearty rum often enjoy it, offering a robust taste experience.
Ron Mokaná
Celebrated for its unique flavor profile, influenced by local ingredients and production methods, Ron Mokaná is a favorite among those looking for a distinct rum experience.
Ron Premium
A high-end rum known for its refined taste and smooth finish, Ron Premium is often enjoyed by connoisseurs and collectors for its exceptional quality.
Ron Isla del Tesoro
Known for its rich, complex flavors and long aging process, Ron Isla del Tesoro is a premium rum highly regarded among rum enthusiasts.
Ron Cartagena
Produced in the coastal city of Cartagena, this rum is known for its unique flavor profile and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Ron Bucanero
Known for its bold, robust flavor, Ron Bucanero is a popular choice for those who enjoy a hearty and full-bodied rum. It is often used in traditional cocktails, offering a rich and satisfying taste.
Colombian Cocktails
Colombian cocktails highlight the country’s culinary traditions and diversity, from the warming, spiced drinks enjoyed in the Andean highlands to the refreshing tropical concoctions favored along the coast. Below is an overview of some of the most notable Colombian cocktails, each characterized by distinct ingredients and preparation methods.
Canelazo
Canelazo is a warm, spiced cocktail traditionally enjoyed in the Andean regions of Colombia during cold weather. The drink is made by boiling water with cinnamon sticks and panela (unrefined cane sugar) to create fragrant and sweet cinnamon water. This mixture is then enhanced with a splash of aguardiente. Variations of Canelazo may include fruit juices or additional spices; occasionally, rum may be used instead of aguardiente. It is a comforting beverage often served at social gatherings and festivals.
Refajo
Refajo is a popular Colombian mixed drink that combines beer with Colombiana soda, a local soft drink, resulting in a refreshing and slightly sweet beverage. Typically, a pale lager is mixed with Colombiana in a chilled pitcher without stirring, and the mixture is served over ice. Sometimes, aguardiente is added for an extra kick. Refajo is a staple at asado barbecues, where it accompanies grilled meats, corn, and potatoes, offering a refreshing complement to the hearty fare.
Lulada
Originating from Cali, Lulada is a traditional cocktail made with lulo fruit, naranjilla, lime juice, sugar, and vodka or aguardiente. The lulo fruit provides a tangy and refreshing flavor. The ingredients are mixed to create a slightly tart and sweet drink that is perfect for hot days and a favorite during local festivities.
Coco Loco
Coco Loco is a tropical beach cocktail with coconut cream, water, rum, and tropical fruit juices. Often served in a coconut shell, this cocktail is synonymous with Colombian coastal vacations. It combines the rich, creamy texture of coconut with the refreshing taste of tropical fruits and the warmth of rum, making it a perfect drink for a sunny day on the beach.
Crema de Whisky
Crema de Whisky is Colombia’s take on Irish cream liqueur. This creamy, sweet alcoholic beverage is made from whisky, cream, and sugar and is often enjoyed on its own or added to coffee.
Aguardiente Cream
Aguardiente Cream is a cream-based liqueur that blends the anise flavor of aguardiente with a smooth, creamy texture. This liqueur is a standalone drink and an addition to desserts and coffee.
Caspiroleta
Caspiroleta is a warming, spiced beverage similar to eggnog. It is made with milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and alcohol such as rum, aguardiente, or brandy. It is cooked over low heat until thick and creamy and is typically served warm with a dusting of cinnamon. In Colombia, the non-alcoholic version is called candil.
Hervido
Hervido Nariñense is a traditional hot drink from the Nariño department, enjoyed during colder months. It is made by boiling water with fresh fruits and sugar. Aguardiente is often added before serving, but the drink can also be made without alcohol. The hot juice is served in glasses garnished with fruit slices and sugar.
Sabajón
Sabajón is a traditional Colombian eggnog enjoyed during the Christmas season. Made from milk, eggs, sugar, and aguardiente or rum, it is similar to classic eggnog but with a unique Colombian twist. Spiced with cinnamon and vanilla, Sabajón is served chilled and often garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, providing a rich and creamy holiday treat.
Michelada
In Medellín, a Michelada is typically prepared with beer (a light lager or pilsner), freshly squeezed lime juice, salt-rimmed glass, and ice. This refreshing drink differs from the Mexican version and is enjoyed on hot days. The ingredients are combined in a salt-rimmed glass, creating a tangy, salty, refreshing beverage perfect for quenching thirst.
Colombian Traditional Drinks
Chicha
Chicha is a traditional fermented drink made from corn that dates back to pre-Columbian times. It holds historical significance and was once a staple in indigenous communities. Today, while less common, it is still enjoyed in some regions, especially during cultural festivals and traditional ceremonies.
Masato
Masato is a popular fermented rice drink in Colombia’s Tolima and Huila regions. It is often flavored with cloves and cinnamon, giving it a distinctive and aromatic profile. This beverage is typically enjoyed during special occasions and community gatherings.
Guarapo
Guarapo is a traditional drink made from fermented sugarcane juice. Sometimes mildly alcoholic, it is a refreshing beverage favored in rural areas. Its sweet and slightly tangy flavor makes it a popular choice for quenching thirst in hot climates.
Viche
Viche is an artisanal spirit made from sugarcane, traditionally produced by Afro-Colombian communities in the Pacific region. Known for its intense and distinctive flavor, Viche plays a significant role in traditional rituals and celebrations.
Colombia Cobalt Blue Frosted Shot Glass
Colombian liquors like Aguardiente and rum are often enjoyed in shots. A set of traditional shot glasses adds a cultural element to the drinking experience, making it a perfect affiliate product to recommend for at-home tasting parties.
This cocktail-making kit would complement the exploration of Colombian liquors, allowing readers to create traditional Colombian cocktails like “Canelazo” at home. It’s a versatile and useful tool for any home bar.