Hopper Beer: Belgium’s Delicious Craft Beer Comes to India

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Whiskey has traditionally been the drink of choice for most Indians. The last couple of decades have seen a rise in wine-drinking (read more here), partly due to the gentrification of the sale of wine by La Cave owned by Brindco Sales Pvt. Ltd. (read more here). Beer’s been low on the list, but has become more prominent in recent years. The newest entrant in the beer market is the Belgian brand, Hopper Garten. I was recently invited to its launch event. Read on to know more about the beer and its fabulous launch party.

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HOPPER BEER:

If you’ve had the privilege of travelling to Belgium, you know that Belgians take their beer very seriously! Hopper is an authentic Belgian craft beer that’s revived a 100 year old sacred brew formulation. It’s been made by three brewmasters, belonging to the 124 year old region of Brouwerij De Brabandere in Bavikhove, Belgium, under the supervision of head brewmaster Chris Van Acker. Amandeep Dhall and Albert De Brabandere are jointly responsible for reviving and launching this smooth brew.

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HOW HOPPER BEER IS MADE:

The natural fresh spring water of Belgium adds a light sweetness, missing in most beers sold in India. The highest quality of wheat and the finest aromatic hops ensure a delectable end result. One is treated to a refreshingly smooth brew, made with genuine Belgian-style brewing techniques.

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Amandeep Dhall, Albert De Brabandere and H. E. the Ambassador of Belgium, Francoise Delhaye launching Hopper Beer 

THE LAUNCH PARTY:

Brindco Sales Pvt. Ltd. is masterful at classy presentation, evident from their wine store La Cave in Select Citywalk Mall, Saket. On October 25, 2018 I was invited by the Ambassador of H.M. the King of the Belgians, H.E. Mr. Francoise Delhaye, and the Executive Director of Brindco Sales Pvt. Ltd., Mr. Amandeep Singh Dhall, to the official launch of Hopper- Authentic Belgian Craft. The party was held at the beautiful residence of the Belgian Ambassador in Chanakyapuri, Delhi. The dress code was smart casual but the evening wasn’t casual in the least!

The lovely lawns of the ambassador’s residence were bedecked in subtle outdoorsy décor. Candle-lit wooden tables strewn through the venue, reminded one of a picnic in the woods.

The beer was clearly the highlight of the evening, and Ritu Dalmia’s tasteful yet filling hors d’ouvres, perfectly complimented it.

The guests were treated to a short film explaining the vision behind the beer, before giving the stage to the live band “Frisky Pines and Mona Lisa”.

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REVIEW AND INFORMATION ABOUT HOPPER BEER:

The craft beer offers two variants- the White, which is light and easy on the palate; and the Blonde, which packs a stronger punch. The beers are also available on tap as draft beers at many places like Irish House, Café Delhi Heights, Beer Café, and some premium hotels.

I particularly liked the white variant, as that suits my palate. The more robust blonde was my husband’s preference.

I highly recommend trying this Belgian beer next time you’re out and about. If you’re a beer lover, you will not be disappointed!

Scenes from the launch party of Hopper Beer

Here’s a small real-time vlog of the event. Follow me on Instagram for more real-time content!

*All photographs are clicked by me. The copyright belongs to nooranandchawla.

**This is not a sponsored post, but I was invited for the launch of the beer.

11 comments

  1. This is an interesting drink actually. During my 5 yrs stay in Belgium I had the opportunity to taste their finest beers. Its great to know I can have it here too now.

  2. Launch party looks interesting. Never heard about Belgian crafts beer. Thank God they have come to India, now will try.

  3. I’m not much of a beer person but your description makes me want to try this out. Will surely check out next time I go for a drink.

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