When you think of the world’s best-selling beer, the usual suspects like Budweiser or Heineken come to mind. But here’s a twist: the world’s best-selling beer is actually Snow Beer, a Chinese lager that most people outside of China have never heard of.
While it might not have the global recognition of other beer brands, Snow Beer has been dominating the beer market for years.
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How Snow Beer Became the World’s Best-Selling Beer
Snow Beer was first brewed in 1993 by China Resources Snow Breweries, a joint venture between China Resources Enterprise and the global brewing giant SABMiller. The beer was created with one goal in mind: to cater to China’s massive beer-drinking population. It was designed to be cheap, easy to drink, and mass-produced, and it quickly became the go-to beer for millions of people across China.
What makes Snow Beer stand out is its sheer volume. While it’s not known for its complex flavors or craft beer appeal, it has become a staple in the Chinese beer market. With over 100 million hectolitres sold annually, Snow Beer has held its position as the world’s best-selling beer for years, beating out global heavyweights like Budweiser and Heineken.
What’s So Special About Snow Beer?
Let’s be real—Snow Beer isn’t winning any awards for its taste. It’s a light, bland lager with little to distinguish it from other mass-produced beers. It’s not the kind of beer you savor or get excited about. But that’s exactly why it’s so popular. It’s cheap, it’s refreshing, and it gets the job done.
In China, beer is more about quantity than quality. Snow Beer is the drink of choice for everything from casual street food meals to big celebrations. It’s the kind of beer you crack open after a long day or while enjoying a plate of skewers at a local night market. It’s not about the flavor—it’s about having a cold beer in hand.
Snow Beer’s Global Reach (or Lack Thereof)
While Snow Beer may be the world’s best-selling beer, it hasn’t made much of a splash outside of China. Sure, you can find it in some international markets, particularly in areas with large Chinese communities, but it’s not exactly taking over the world. Snow Beer’s presence in places like Europe or the US is limited, and it’s not a go-to choice for most beer drinkers outside of China.
In short, Snow Beer is a China thing. It’s everywhere in China, but if you’re outside the country, don’t expect to see it at your local pub or supermarket anytime soon.
The Top 5 Beers in China
While Snow Beer reigns supreme in terms of sales, it’s not the only beer on the market in China. The Chinese beer scene is diverse, with a variety of local brews catering to different tastes. Here are the top five beers you’ll find in China:
- Snow Beer
Of course, Snow Beer takes the top spot. Despite its lack of flavor complexity, it’s the go-to beer for millions of Chinese drinkers. It’s everywhere, from street food stalls to large celebrations. - Tsingtao
Tsingtao is the most internationally recognized Chinese beer. Founded in 1903, it’s a pale lager that’s crisp and slightly bitter. It’s popular both in China and abroad, often found in Chinese restaurants around the world. - Yanjing
Yanjing Beer is another popular choice in China. It’s known for being affordable and easy to drink, making it a favorite at casual gatherings and street food stalls. It has a mild, light flavor that appeals to a wide range of beer drinkers. - Harbin
Harbin Beer, named after the northern Chinese city of Harbin, is a lager that’s been brewed since 1900. It’s one of the oldest beer brands in China and is known for its smooth, slightly malty taste. It’s a popular choice in the colder regions of China. A classic for Dandong dining. - Braumeister
Braumeister is a relatively newer player in the Chinese beer scene but has quickly gained popularity. Brewed by China Resources, it’s a German-style lager that’s become a favorite among younger Chinese beer drinkers for its smoother taste and higher quality compared to some of the more mass-produced options.
Why Snow Beer is Here to Stay
As craft beer continues to gain popularity around the world, Snow Beer might face more competition in the future. But for now, it’s still the best-seller in China, and it’s not going anywhere. The sheer volume of beer consumed in China ensures that Snow Beer will remain a dominant force in the market.
It’s cheap, it’s easy to drink, and it’s perfect for pairing with street food or a casual night out. So, if you ever find yourself in China, grab a Snow Beer—it’s the beer that’s been quenching the thirst of millions for decades. But don’t expect it to be your new favorite.