Is Ginger Beer Actually Beer?
Ginger beer is a favourite for many, whether as a refreshing drink on its own or a spicy mixer. But does it actually qualify as beer? Let’s break it down.
What Makes a Beer, a Beer?
To be classified as beer, a beverage typically needs:
A malted grain base (barley, wheat, or corn)
Hops (for bitterness and aroma)
Yeast (for fermentation)
Water (as the main ingredient)
Beer is defined by its use of malted grains as the primary source of fermentable sugars. If a drink lacks malted grain, it’s not considered beer.
Is Alcoholic Ginger Beer Actually Beer?
Some alcoholic ginger beers can be classified as beer if they meet these criteria:
Malted grain base – Some traditional alcoholic ginger beers use malted barley, wheat, or corn.
Fermentation – Brewed with yeast, much like sour beers.
Minimal or no hops – Instead of hops, ginger provides the dominant flavour.
Some British-style alcoholic ginger beers include a small amount of hops, making them even closer to traditional beer styles.
Why Non-Alcoholic Ginger Beer is Not Beer
Many modern ginger beers, especially non-alcoholic versions, are not beer because:
They lack a malted grain base and are instead brewed with sugar.
They don’t undergo traditional beer fermentation.
They are more like soft drinks than alcoholic brews.
If you’re looking for a true “beer-like” ginger beer, check the ingredients and brewing process.
Ginger Beer vs Cider: Key Differences
Though both are fermented beverages, ginger beer and cider are fundamentally different:
Cider is made from fruit (usually apples) and fermented with fructose.
Alcoholic ginger beer (if made with malted grain) is a type of beer.
Cider is not considered beer under beer judging guidelines.
If it comes from fruit, it’s cider. If it comes from malted grain, it can be beer.
How to Choose a Proper Alcoholic Ginger Beer
Looking for an alcoholic ginger beer that’s actually beer? Keep an eye out for: ✅ Malted barley, wheat, or corn in the ingredients. ✅ A fermentation process similar to traditional beer. ✅ Alcoholic ginger beers that use brewing techniques, not just added alcohol.
Final Verdict: Is Ginger Beer Actually Beer?
✔ Alcoholic ginger beer is beer if it has a malted grain base and follows beer brewing methods. ❌ Non-alcoholic ginger beer is not beer because it lacks fermentation and a malted grain base.
Ginger beer sits in a grey area—some versions fit the beer category, while others don’t. If you’re a craft beer lover, seek out properly brewed alcoholic ginger beers for the best experience.
Next time someone asks, "Is ginger beer actually beer?"—you’ll have the answer. 🍻