Beer Lao: the pride of Laos and a must-try cultural experience

1. The origins and history of Beer Lao

Beer Lao was first brewed in 1973 during a transformative time in Laos’ history. Originally established as a joint venture between Lao entrepreneurs and foreign investors, the Lao Brewery Company began its journey under the name Lao Beer and Ice Factory. During the early years, the company had modest goals: producing beer, soft drinks, and ice for local consumption.

But things changed dramatically after the fall of the monarchy in 1975. Laos became a socialist state, and the company was nationalized. For years, Beer Lao existed in a kind of economic vacuum, with very limited competition or export possibilities due to the country's closed economic policy.

Everything shifted in the 1990s, when Laos began opening up to foreign investment. In 1993, the Lao Brewery Company became a joint venture again, this time with Carlsberg Group. This partnership helped transform Beer Lao into a global-quality product. The brand started modernizing its brewing facilities, refining its recipes, and eventually began exporting abroad.

By the 2000s, Beer Lao had not only become the undisputed beer of choice in Laos - it had started to earn cult status among backpackers and Southeast Asia travelers.

2. The brewing process and ingredients

What makes Beer Lao so distinct isn’t just its legacy - it’s the way it’s brewed.

• Local Rice: One of Beer Lao’s signature ingredients is the use of premium Lao rice, particularly the short-grain variety known as Khao Kai Noy, which adds a light body and smoothness. This rice is grown locally, making the beer deeply connected to the land.
• European Barley and Hops: Barley is imported from France and Belgium, while hops come from Germany. This combination brings depth, a clean malt backbone, and subtle bitterness.
• Yeast and Water: Yeast is imported from Europe, and the water comes from the pure mountain springs of the Annamite Range - a natural resource that gives Beer Lao its crisp, refreshing profile.

The brewing process is a carefully controlled mix of tradition and modernity. Lao brewers follow a cold fermentation method (lagering), which results in a smooth, balanced beer that retains its flavor even when served over ice - something very common in Southeast Asia.

3. Varieties of Beer Lao

Though Beerlao Lager remains the most iconic, the brand now offers a range of products catering to different palates:

• Beerlao Lager: The flagship brew. A 5% ABV golden lager with a mild bitterness, light aroma, and smooth finish. It’s easy to drink and perfect for hot tropical days.
• Beerlao Dark: With a deeper malt flavor, this version uses roasted malt for a richer, caramel-like finish. It's still 5% ABV but feels more full-bodied. Ideal for beer lovers who want something beyond light lager.
• Beerlao Gold: A premium version brewed with Khao Kai Noy rice. Smooth, delicate, and slightly floral, Beerlao Gold offers a refined taste that appeals to those looking for a sophisticated experience.
• Beerlao White: A wheat-based beer with a cloudy appearance, this one is fruity and slightly citrusy - great for a tropical brunch or riverside dinner.
• Beerlao IPA: The brand’s boldest innovation. Hoppier and more bitter than its siblings, the IPA has strong tropical fruit aromas and is clearly aimed at international craft beer fans.

4. Beer Lao in Lao culture

Drinking in Laos is not just about the alcohol - it’s about connection.

Beer Lao is the centerpiece of many social occasions: weddings, birthdays, family dinners, and even business meetings. It’s common to see a single bottle of Beer Lao shared by several people at the table, with everyone taking turns pouring for one another - a cultural gesture that expresses respect and friendship.

The local drinking etiquette includes:

• Always pouring for others before yourself
• Clinking glasses and saying “ຊົນ! (Chone!)”, which means “cheers” in Lao
• Drinking with ice: In Laos, beer is almost always served with ice, and locals argue it enhances the taste rather than diluting it

Beer Lao is usually enjoyed with flavorful Lao snacks and dishes, such as:

• Ping Gai: Grilled chicken, smoky and marinated in lemongrass
• Tam Mak Hoong: Spicy green papaya salad
• Mok Pa: Steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves
• Jeow Bong: Spicy chili paste with buffalo skin

Together, these elements create a unique gastronomic and cultural experience.

5. Where to drink Beer Lao

Whether you want to sip your Beer Lao in a backpacker bar or alongside locals in a small village, there are plenty of places to enjoy it:

• Street Food Stalls: Cheap and cheerful, where Beer Lao is often served in large bottles with plastic cups and ice.
• Beer Gardens in Vientiane: These are lively, often with live music, karaoke, and grilled food. The atmosphere is electric, especially on weekends.
• Upscale Restaurants and Hotels: Beer Lao is often paired with modern Lao or fusion cuisine.
• Luang Prabang Mekong Views: Nothing beats a Beer Lao at sunset with a view of the river.
• At the Brewery: Lao Brewery Company, based in Vientiane, sometimes allows guided tours (check ahead). It’s a fascinating way to see how this iconic beer is made.

6. Beer Lao’s international recognition

Beer Lao has earned several accolades internationally:

• Gold Medals at World Selections in Brussels
• Awards in Japan’s International Beer Competition
• Features in global publications such as Lonely Planet and The Guardian, praising it as one of Southeast Asia’s finest beers

It’s now exported to over 10 countries, including the US, UK, Australia, and across Asia. Beer Lao has become an ambassador for Lao culture abroad, introducing people worldwide to the country’s craftsmanship and flavors.

7. Fun facts and tips

• Over 90% Market Share: Beer Lao dominates the domestic beer market in Laos.
• Available in Tall Bottles and Cans: The iconic 640ml bottle is the standard.
• Beer Lao Cocktails: Some bars are now experimenting with Beer Lao-based cocktails (try it with a splash of lime and lemongrass!).
• Lao Craft Beer Movement: Beer Lao’s success has helped spark an interest in local microbreweries, slowly growing in Vientiane and Pakse.
• Drink Responsibly: Beer Lao goes down smooth, and it's easy to have "one too many" - especially with ice.

Beer Lao is more than just a refreshing drink - it’s a symbol of Lao hospitality, resilience, and pride. From its humble beginnings in the 1970s to its status today as one of Southeast Asia’s best-known beers, Beer Lao has managed to stay true to its roots while embracing innovation.

So if you ever find yourself in Laos, don’t miss the chance to raise a glass of Beer Lao - preferably with friends, a spicy meal, and a Mekong sunset in the background. Chone!