Cusco, a city nestled within the breathtaking Andean landscapes of Peru, is a place that offers a lot to explore. Apart from its rich history, captivating architecture, and vibrant culture, it also has a burgeoning craft beer scene that’s been steadily gaining popularity among locals and tourists alike. Visiting the local breweries here is an excellent way to experience the unique flavours and stories of this captivating region. You can savour exceptional brews while immersing yourself in the local culture.
Embracing Craft Beer Culture in Cusco
In recent years, the craft brewery scene in Cusco has been flourishing, offering an extensive variety of flavours and stories that truly capture the essence of the Andean highlands. These breweries have become more than just places to grab a drink; they have become thriving centres of creativity, community, and expert craftsmanship. It’s remarkable to see how they have enriched the local culture and brought people together in new and meaningful ways, fostering a sense of belonging and promoting the region’s unique identity.
The Pioneers: Discovering Cusco’s First Breweries
Cerveceria del Valle Sagrado has played a vital role in the growth of Cusco’s craft beer scene. This brewery in the picturesque Sacred Valley prides itself on using locally sourced, high-quality ingredients like Peruvian hops and quinoa. Their dedication to blending traditional brewing methods with innovative flavours has resulted in a range of outstanding beers that offer a truly authentic taste of the region. Beer lovers looking to explore the best that Cusco has to offer should definitely add Cerveceria del Valle Sagrado to their must-visit list.
Cerveceria Artesanal Kay Pacha and Nuevo Mundo are a must-visit breweries located near the historic centre of Cusco. They are known for their inventive recipes that draw inspiration from Andean ingredients. Their range of beers offers unique flavours and aromas that will delight your taste buds. If you’re looking for a memorable experience, you should definitely check them out.
Embracing Sustainability and Local Community
Numerous local breweries in Cusco proudly champion sustainability and are committed to promoting sustainable practices. They achieve this by sourcing ingredients locally and prioritizing eco-friendly production methods. This appeals to consumers who care about the environment and enables a stronger connection with the local community and agricultural producers.
Top 7 Craft Beers and Breweries
If you’re a beer lover, you’ll be pleased to know that Cusco has a vibrant craft beer scene. With a number of breweries offering unique and flavorful brews, you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds. To help you make the most of your beer-tasting experience, we’ve curated a list of the top six craft beers and breweries in Cusco that are currently open. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or a curious newcomer, these spots promise an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Yucay Brewery
Yucay Brewery, nestled in the serene setting of Yucay in the Sacred Valley, is a prominent player in Cusco’s craft beer landscape. The brewery embraces traditional brewing methods while infusing its beers with local ingredients, creating a fusion of flavours. Their Black ale, with hints of roasted malt and chocolate, offers a rich and satisfying experience that captures the essence of the Andean landscape.
For those seeking a lighter option, Yucay Brewery’s Blonde Ale provides a refreshing taste with subtle citrus notes, perfect for sipping amid the picturesque backdrop of the Sacred Valley.
Cerveceria del Valle Sagrado
Dedicated to producing small-batch artisanal beers, Cerveceria del Valle Sagrado crafts brews that highlight the diverse flavours of the Sacred Valley. Their commitment to quality and innovation is evident in every sip. One of their standout offerings is the Be Kind, a Pale Ale infused with light flavours of mango and passionfruit, providing a delightful sweetness and a smooth finish.
For beer enthusiasts seeking a more robust option, the Inti Punku IPA delivers with its bold hoppy profile and hints of tropical fruits. The brewery’s cozy ambience and warm hospitality make it an inviting spot to explore its diverse beer selection, each one telling a story of the region’s heritage.
Jacobs Brewery by Green Point
Jacobs Brewery by Green Point brings a fresh perspective to Cusco’s beer landscape, offering a range of innovative and expertly crafted beers. Their American Pale Ale blends traditional brewing techniques with modern flavours, creating a well-balanced beer with fresh notes and a smooth finish. If you’re a fan of stouts, you should try their “Whisky Stout”, and if you’re seeking something different, they have a special section for you; make sure you ask for the ‘Jacob’s Juicy series’ and get amazed by their creations.
The brewery’s commitment to sustainability and quality brewing practices adds depth to the overall beer-drinking experience.
Visitors can enjoy their brews in a welcoming environment, complete with knowledgeable staff eager to guide guests through their diverse beer offerings.
Kapun Brewery
Kapun Brewery is renowned for its dedication to creating unique and flavourful beers that combine Peruvian ingredients with Belgian craftsmanship. Their Belgian Tripel is a standout brew featuring a dry, bold, hoppy character that is balanced by hints of tropical fruits and a citrusy aroma. This Tripel offers an exceptional combination of flavours that will appeal to beer enthusiasts looking for a distinctive taste.
If you prefer a lighter option, Kapun’s Kapunli is an excellent choice. It offers a crisp and easy-drinking experience with subtle fruity notes, rose colours and a clean finish. Kapun Brewery is well-known for its commitment to quality and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists.
Zenith Brewery
Located in the bustling streets of Cusco, Zenith Brewery is known for its commitment to creating outstanding beers with a modern twist. Their diverse range of beers features innovative flavours that challenge traditional brewing methods. One of their must-try beers is the Ausangate IPA, which has a hoppy body blended with five different hops from various hemispheres, providing a distinct taste and deep body.
If you’re looking for a more intense beer experience, you might want to try the Porter con Quinua (Porter with Quinoa). This beer has a bold and rich flavour profile that includes notes of caramel, roasted coffee beans, and nuts, all thanks to the quinoa. The brewery has a warm and friendly atmosphere, and they are committed to producing high-quality beer, making it a popular destination for anyone willing to get a delicious beer.
Cholos Brewery
Cholos Craft Beer is a hidden treasure in Cusco’s craft beer scene, renowned for its focus on creating small-batch artisanal brews. Their Maíz Morado IPA, brewed with purple corn, is a crisp beer perfect for those searching for a refreshing and hoppy option after a day of exploring the city. In addition, their Sexy Woman IPA combines tropical and citrus flavours, resulting in a one-of-a-kind drinking experience. Be sure to check out their selection of beers and give them a try; I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
The brewery’s commitment to quality ingredients and its cozy ambience make it an excellent spot to enjoy a craft beer while immersing oneself in the local culture.
Kay Pacha Brewery
Kay Pacha Brewery stands as a testament to Cusco’s commitment to craft beer, offering a selection of artisanal brews that honour Peruvian heritage. Their All Bloods Red Ale entices with its deep amber hue and robust malt character complemented by hints of berries and a pinch of citruses thanks to the hibiscus flower. Additionally, their Pachamama Pale Ale, inspired by the ingredients that ‘Pachamama’ (Mother Earth) provides for their beers, presents a fruity, citrus and refreshing profile, showcasing the brewery’s creativity. Another must-try is their Menta Andina Pale Ale, providing a light bitter flavour, hints of mint thanks to the muña (Andean mint) and a second fermentation in the bottle.
Kay Pacha Brewery’s dedication to incorporating local ingredients and crafting unique flavours makes it a noteworthy addition to Cusco’s thriving craft beer scene.
Conclusion
Cusco has a vibrant craft beer scene that reflects the city’s rich culture and dedication to preserving its heritage. From traditional breweries like Yucay Brewery, nestled in the Sacred Valley, to modern establishments like Jacobs Brewery by Green Point and Zenith Brewery with innovative flavours, each place offers a unique experience showcasing Peruvian craft beer’s diversity and creativity.
Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a curious traveller looking to explore local flavours, Cusco’s top craft breweries have something exceptional to offer. Every sip tells a story, and you can taste this enchanting Peruvian city’s cultural and innovative flavours. So, let’s raise a glass to explore Cusco, one delicious brew at a time!