Ginger beer is widely available at major grocery stores (like Kroger, Walmart, and Target), specialty beverage shops, liquor stores (for alcoholic varieties), and online retailers including Amazon, Thrive Market, and specialty beverage websites. International and craft varieties can often be found at Whole Foods, World Market, and local craft beverage stores.
If you're searching for where to buy ginger beer, you'll find it in numerous locations both offline and online. This comprehensive guide details exactly where to find quality ginger beer whether you need it for a Moscow Mule cocktail, non-alcoholic refreshment, or culinary use. Understanding the different purchasing options can help you find the perfect ginger beer for your needs without wasting time searching fruitlessly.
Understanding Ginger Beer Types Before You Buy
Before exploring where to buy ginger beer, it's important to distinguish between the two main types:
- Non-alcoholic ginger beer - Typically contains less than 0.5% alcohol, considered a soft drink
- Alcoholic ginger beer - Contains 2-6% alcohol by volume, classified as a malt beverage
This distinction matters because where you can purchase them differs significantly. Non-alcoholic varieties appear in the soft drink aisle, while alcoholic versions require purchase from liquor stores or the alcohol section of supermarkets in regions where permitted.
Major Grocery Stores Carrying Ginger Beer
Most large supermarket chains stock ginger beer in their beverage sections. Here's where to look:
| Store Chain | Non-Alcoholic Options | Alcoholic Options | Specialty Varieties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walmart | Fever-Tree, Bundaberg, Reed's | Bundaberg, Barritt's | Limited craft options |
| Kroger | Reed's, Q Mixers, Fever-Tree | Bundaberg, Q Mixers Craft | Local craft options |
| Target | Fever-Tree, Q Mixers | Limited selection | Seasonal craft varieties |
| Costco | Reed's, Bundaberg (bulk) | Bundaberg (seasonal) | Limited |
When shopping at grocery stores, check both the soft drink aisle and near the cocktail mixers. Some stores now feature dedicated "craft mixer" sections that include premium ginger beers. For alcoholic versions, you'll need to visit the beer/wine section or a separate liquor department depending on local regulations.
Specialty Food and Beverage Retailers
For higher quality and more diverse options, specialty retailers often provide superior selections:
Whole Foods Market
Whole Foods typically carries an extensive selection of craft ginger beers including Reed's Extra Ginger, Maine Root, and local artisanal brands. Their 365 Everyday Value house brand also offers a quality non-alcoholic option. The alcoholic varieties are usually found in the craft beer section.
World Market
World Market specializes in international products and usually stocks Bundaberg (Australian), Fentimans (British), and other imported ginger beers. Their selection often includes unique flavors like blood orange or elderflower ginger beer that are harder to find elsewhere.
Liquor Stores and Beverage Shops
For alcoholic ginger beer specifically, dedicated liquor stores provide the most comprehensive selection. Stores like BevMo!, Total Wine, and local independent liquor shops typically carry:
- Premium craft ginger beers (like Q Mixers Craft)
- International brands (Bundaberg, Fentimans, Fever-Tree)
- Small-batch local craft options
- Seasonal and limited edition varieties
Online Retailers for Ginger Beer Delivery
When local options are limited or you want specific craft varieties, online retailers provide convenient solutions:
Major Online Marketplaces
Amazon offers extensive ginger beer options with Prime delivery. Search for "ginger beer" and filter by alcoholic/non-alcoholic as needed. Thrive Market specializes in natural products and often has better pricing on organic and craft ginger beers with membership.
Specialty Beverage Websites
For the widest selection of craft and international ginger beers, consider these specialized online retailers:
- Woodshop Barrels - Specializes in cocktail ingredients including rare ginger beers
- Cocktail Kingdom - Carries premium mixers and craft ginger beers
- Marketview Liquor - Extensive selection of international and craft options
International and Regional Availability Considerations
Ginger beer availability varies significantly by region and country:
- United States: Widely available nationwide with regional craft varieties
- United Kingdom: Fentimans and Bundaberg are widely available in supermarkets
- Australia: Bundaberg is the dominant brand found everywhere
- Canada: Similar selection to US but with additional local craft options
- Europe: Availability varies by country; larger supermarkets in major cities typically carry options
If you're traveling or living abroad and searching where to buy ginger beer locally, check major supermarkets, specialty beverage shops, and ask at cocktail bars which brands they use.
How to Select Quality Ginger Beer
Not all ginger beers are created equal. When purchasing, consider these factors:
- Ginger content: Look for "real ginger" or high ginger root content in ingredients
- Sweetness level: Options range from unsweetened to very sweet
- Carbonation: Craft brands often have more natural, lively carbonation
- Additives: Premium brands avoid high fructose corn syrup and artificial flavors
- Alcohol content: Verify percentage if purchasing alcoholic varieties
For cocktail use, drier, less sweet varieties with strong ginger flavor work best. For standalone drinking, many prefer slightly sweeter options with balanced spice.
Price Expectations When Buying Ginger Beer
Understanding typical price ranges helps avoid overpaying:
- Economy brands: $1.50-$2.50 per 12oz bottle
- Mid-range craft: $2.50-$4.00 per 12oz bottle
- Premium/imported: $4.00-$7.00 per 12oz bottle
- Specialty craft: $7.00+ per 12oz bottle
Buying in bulk (12-packs or cases) typically reduces the per-bottle cost by 20-30%. Specialty liquor stores often run promotions on ginger beer, especially during cocktail season (spring through summer).
Finding Local Ginger Beer Options
To discover where to buy ginger beer near your specific location:
- Check store websites for inventory search features
- Call local grocery and liquor stores directly
- Visit craft beverage-focused bars and ask where they source their ginger beer
- Search "craft ginger beer near me" for local producers
- Ask at farmers markets where vendors get their mixers
Many craft ginger beer producers sell directly from their facilities or at local markets, offering fresher product with unique flavor profiles you won't find in stores.
Can I find ginger beer at regular grocery stores?
Yes, most major grocery stores carry ginger beer in the soft drink aisle or near cocktail mixers. Larger chains like Kroger, Walmart, and Target typically stock popular brands such as Bundaberg, Fever-Tree, and Reed's. For alcoholic ginger beer (over 0.5% ABV), check the beer or liquor section depending on local regulations.
What's the difference between ginger beer and ginger ale?
Ginger beer typically contains more real ginger root, has a stronger, spicier flavor, and is often brewed through fermentation. Ginger ale is usually milder, sweeter, and carbonated without fermentation. Traditional ginger beer has a more complex flavor profile preferred for cocktails, while ginger ale tends to be lighter and more neutral.
Where can I buy alcoholic ginger beer?
Alcoholic ginger beer (typically 2-6% ABV) can be purchased at liquor stores, the beer/wine section of supermarkets in states that permit it, and specialty beverage shops. Popular brands include Bundaberg, Q Mixers Craft, and Barritt's. Note that alcohol regulations vary by state and country, so availability may differ based on your location.
Are there craft ginger beer options available locally?
Yes, many regions have local craft ginger beer producers. Check farmers markets, craft beverage shops, and specialty grocery stores for regional brands. You can also search "craft ginger beer near me" to find local producers. Craft options often feature unique flavor combinations and higher quality ingredients compared to mass-produced varieties.
How can I verify if a store has ginger beer before visiting?
Most major grocery chains have inventory search features on their websites or mobile apps where you can check product availability at your local store. For smaller stores, calling ahead is the most reliable method. Some third-party apps like Instacart or Google Shopping also show real-time inventory for participating stores in certain regions.
浙公网安备
33010002000092号
浙B2-20120091-4