Sipping on a cold brew while laying on the golden sand of a beautiful Tel Aviv beach is a great thing. Before you hit the beaches, make sure you choose the best Israeli beer and make sure its cold!!!
Israel’s craft beer scene has grown significantly over the past decade, with a variety of breweries offering unique flavors that cater to diverse palates. Here’s a list of the most popular beers in Israel, complete with details about their alcohol content, place of origin, flavors, history, and statistics.
1. Goldstar
- Alcohol Content: 4.9%
- Place of Origin: Netanya, Israel
- Flavors: Rich malt, caramel, with a hint of bitterness.
- History: Introduced in 1950 by Tempo Beverages, Goldstar is one of Israel’s oldest and most beloved lagers. Originally marketed as a dark beer, it became synonymous with casual gatherings and is a staple in Israeli bars.
- Statistics: Goldstar holds a significant share of Israel’s beer market, with nearly 40% of the domestic beer consumption attributed to this classic.
2. Maccabee
- Alcohol Content: 5% and 7.9%
- Place of Origin: Netanya, Israel
- Flavors: Light and crisp, with mild hoppy notes and a slightly sweet finish.
- History: Also brewed by Tempo Beverages, Maccabee was launched in 1968. It’s a light lager designed to compete with international brands and has seen a resurgence in popularity among younger drinkers.
- Statistics: Though less dominant than Goldstar, Maccabee is a go-to choice for those preferring a milder beer.
3. Malka Blonde Ale
- Alcohol Content: 6.5%
- Place of Origin: Kibbutz Yehiam, Northern Israel
- Flavors: Fruity and floral, with hints of citrus and spices.
- History: Malka Brewery was established in 2006 and quickly became a pioneer in Israel’s craft beer movement. The Blonde Ale is their flagship beer and is particularly favored for its balanced complexity.
- Statistics: Malka Blonde Ale is often listed among the top 10 craft beers in Israel, with a growing presence in local bars and restaurants.
4. Dancing Camel IPA
- Alcohol Content: 6.5%
- Place of Origin: Tel Aviv, Israel
- Flavors: Bold and hoppy, with citrus, pine, and tropical fruit undertones.
- History: Founded in 2005, Dancing Camel was Tel Aviv’s first craft brewery. Their IPA is a tribute to the city’s dynamic energy and remains a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts.
- Statistics: Dancing Camel accounts for 5% of Israel’s craft beer sales and has a cult following among expatriates and tourists.
5. Shapiro Stout
- Alcohol Content: 5.2%
- Place of Origin: Jerusalem, Israel
- Flavors: Rich and creamy, with notes of chocolate, coffee, and roasted malt.
- History: Shapiro Brewery was established in 2010 by two brothers who sought to bring Jerusalem its own distinctive craft beer. Their stout is a crowd-pleaser, particularly during the colder months.
- Statistics: Shapiro Stout is one of the best-selling stouts in the country and has won multiple awards in local beer competitions.
6. Negev Porter
- Alcohol Content: 5.5%
- Place of Origin: Kiryat Gat, Israel
- Flavors: Smooth and malty, with hints of chocolate and toffee.
- History: Negev Brewery, founded in 2005, reflects the spirit of the southern desert region. Their Porter has become a symbol of Israeli craftsmanship.
- Statistics: Negev Porter makes up 7% of craft beer sales in southern Israel.
7. Alexander Green
- Alcohol Content: 6%
- Place of Origin: Emek Hefer, Israel
- Flavors: Hoppy and aromatic, with strong herbal and citrus notes.
- History: Established in 2008, Alexander Brewery is named after the nearby Alexander River. The Green Ale is their standout IPA, celebrated for its vibrant flavor profile.
- Statistics: Alexander Brewery ranks as one of the top three craft breweries in Israel, with Green Ale being their most popular product.
A Rising Trend in Israeli Beer into 2025
- Beer Consumption: Israelis consume approximately 15 liters of beer per capita annually, lower than the global average but steadily increasing.
- Craft Beer Boom: The number of microbreweries has grown from just a handful in the early 2000s to over 30 today, reflecting a strong demand for artisanal brews.
- Export Success: Brands like Alexander and Malka are beginning to make waves internationally, further showcasing Israel’s brewing prowess.
Whether you’re a beer aficionado or a casual drinker, Israel offers a wide range of brews worth exploring. From the iconic Goldstar to the bold flavors of Alexander Green, there’s something to suit every palate.
What’s your favorite Israeli beer? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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