Five Local Beers to Try in Malta
If you’re heading to Malta this summer and enjoy a decent pint, you’re in luck. The island may be better known for its sunshine, blue sea, and centuries-old forts, but in recent years, its beer scene has quietly grown more interesting. Alongside long-time staples, a few local craft breweries have popped up, offering something beyond the usual lager. Here are five Maltese beers worth trying while you’re out here on the islands.
Cisk Lager
Still the national favourite, Cisk (pronounced “Chisk”) is a light, easy-drinking lager you’ll find just about everywhere. Brewed since 1929, it’s crisp, mildly bitter, and does exactly what you want it to on a hot day. Nothing overly fancy, but reliably good.
Lord Chambray, san blas
Based in Gozo, Lord Chambray is Malta’s first craft brewery. San Blas is one of their standout beers, a ruby red ale with caramel malt character balanced by a dry finish and subtle hop bitterness. A solid alternative if you’re after something maltier than a lager.
Huskie Pale Ale
One of the newer players on the scene, Huskie Craft Beer operates out of a small brewery in Marsa. Their Pale Ale is a balanced, approachable brew with citrusy hop notes and a slightly dry finish. It is very drinkable and a good entry point into Malta’s craft beer scene.
Stretta India Pale Ale
Stretta started as a passion project and is now available in bars across the islands. Their IPA leans on American-style hops, expect a bold, fruity nose with decent bitterness and a slightly boozy kick. It pairs well with BBQ food and those beachside evenings.
Farsons Blue Label Ale
A lesser-known beer from Malta’s leading brewery, Blue Label is a traditional English-style ale with a malty body and mild hop finish. It’s a nostalgic nod to British bitter and a welcome surprise if you’re craving something familiar with a local twist.
And if you fancy going beyond the pint glass, you can also visit the Farsons Brewery in Mrieħel. Their Brewhouse tour gives a behind-the-scenes look at Malta’s brewing history, with tastings included and a rooftop bar to finish things off. Classic or craft, make sure to explore the growing craft scene. Malta’s beers offer a refreshing way to tap into the island’s flavour, quite literally. Have you tried any of these beers, or perhaps there’s some we should add to our next round-up? Let us know in the comments below. Cheers!
