Singha Beer: Origin, Taste, Price in India, Alcohol Percentage & Full Review
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What Country Is Singha Beer From?
- Origin & Brewery History of Singha Beer
- Beer Style: What Kind of Beer Is Singha?
- Alcohol Percentage of Singha Beer
- Calories in Singha Beer
- Price in India – City-Wise Overview
- Is Singha Beer Available in India?
- Review: Flavours, Aroma, Mouth-feel
- Which Is Better, Chang or Singha?
- Drinking Occasions & Pairing with Indian Food
- Factors to Consider Before Buying Imported Beer in India
- Frequently Asked Questions (Questionnaire)
- Final Thoughts
- Disclaimer
1. Introduction
In the evolving Indian beer market, discerning drinkers are increasingly exploring imported premium lagers beyond domestic mainstream brands. Singha Beer, a Thai beer with international reach, stands among the popular options. With its crisp finish, full malt body and strong heritage, it suits Indian consumers seeking flavourful imported lager. This article delves into its origin, style, alcohol content, calories, pricing in India across cities, review of taste profile, comparison with competitor Chang, and practical tips for Indian buyers.
2. What Country Is Singha Beer From?
Singha Beer is from Thailand. It is the flagship premium lager of Thai brewer Boon Rawd Brewery — Thailand’s oldest licensed brewery. Thus Indian consumers purchasing Singha are getting a genuine Thai-origin premium lager.
3. Origin & Brewery History of Singha Beer
Singha’s history dates back to 1933. According to official sources, Boon Rawd Brewery founded Singha as Thailand’s first licensed brewery. The brand name Singha refers to a mythological lion (“Singha” in Thai). The golden lion logo appears on its packaging. In 1939 the brewery received a royal warrant allowing it to display the Garuda symbol, marking high corporate reputation. Over years the brand expanded export to many countries globally while retaining Thai brewing location and recipe integrity. For Indian consumers, this gives Singha appeal as an imported premium option with authentic heritage.
4. Beer Style: What Kind of Beer Is Singha?
Singha is a pale lager – specifically a full-malt premium lager beer. According to listing: “Light golden, malty notes, hoppy, refreshing crisp”. The standard version is brewed with 100% barley malt and three kinds of hops from Europe. From an Indian viewpoint: this means Singha differs from many economy lagers in India by emphasising full malt content and a crisp, refined profile rather than being dominated by adjuncts or strong bitterness.
5. Alcohol Percentage of Singha Beer
The standard Singha Lager has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 5.0%. A lighter version “Singha Light” is available in some markets at around 3.8-4.5% ABV. For Indian drinkers, the 5% ABV places Singha in the standard strength category for premium lager; it is neither ultra-light nor overly strong.
6. Calories in Singha Beer
While specific calorie listings for Singha in India are not readily published, as a standard 5% ABV full-malt lager we can estimate. Generally, a 330 ml beer at 5% ABV contains around 140-170 calories, depending on malt and sugar content. Given Singha’s full-malt brewing, the higher end of that range is plausible. For moderate drinking in Indian settings (hot climate and meals), awareness of calorie intake is useful.
7. Price in India – City-Wise Overview
Import beer pricing in India depends heavily on state taxes, imported duties, bottle size and retailer margin. Based on latest data:
- In Mumbai: Singha Beer 330 ml priced approx ₹250, 650 ml approx ₹460.
- In Maharashtra (per Boldsky listing): price for 330 ml listed at ₹520 in one context; for Karnataka 330 ml ~₹330.
- A 500 ml Singha can listing shows ~₹300 in another retailer.
Indicative City-Wise Table
| City | Bottle/Can Size | Approx Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai | 330 ml | ~ ₹250 |
| Mumbai | 650 ml | ~ ₹460 |
| Bengaluru | 330 ml | ~ ₹330 |
| Delhi | 330 ml (import) | ~ ₹220-₹300 |
| Kolkata | 330 ml | ~ ₹300 |
Note: These are indicative prices; actual retail may vary by state, shop, and duties.
For Indian consumers, this means Singha sits at a premium imported beer price point. It is more expensive than many domestic lagers, but often cheaper than ultra-premium imported craft beers.
8. Is Singha Beer Available in India?
Yes, Singha Beer is available in India through select licensed liquor retailers, import beer collections in metro cities, some duty-free shops and premium bars. Listings from Indian sites confirm availability and pricing for 330 ml and 500 ml formats. Availability may vary by state (due to excise licensing, distribution) and by format (can vs bottle, 330 vs 650 ml). Indian buyers should check local store stock and any import signage to ensure authenticity.
9. Review: Flavours, Aroma, Mouth-feel
Aroma / Nose
Singha offers a clean malt aroma with cereal and light hops. A review notes: “Aromas of grain, cereal, and a hint of floral hops greet the nose.”
Palate / Taste
- Malt sweetness and corn notes feature prominently.
- Slight citrus or light hops bitterness balances it.
- Medium body for a premium lager; smooth and rather crisp rather than heavy.
Finish
- Clean and refreshing finish with lingering malt and hops.
- Because of its lager profile (rather than stout or craft strong), it remains easy-drinking.
Suitability for Indian Audience
- The crisp finish suits Indian warm climate: suitable chilled, after meals or in lounges.
- The malt sweetness can complement spicy Indian dishes (Thai food, Indian curry) rather than being overly bitter.
- Format sizes (330 ml, 500 ml, 650 ml) provide flexibility for consumers.
Summary Review
Singha Beer stands as a reliable imported premium lager option in India: flavourful yet approachable, smooth rather than aggressively bitter, and offering a difference from domestic mainstream beers. For social drinking, dining with Indian food, or beer enthusiasts who want an imported brand without extreme pricing, Singha delivers value.
10. Which Is Better, Chang or Singha?
A frequent question among Indian consumers comparing Thai beers is: “Chang vs Singha”.
Comparison Highlights:
- Singha is brewed by Boon Rawd Brewery and marketed as premium; Chang is brewed by ThaiBev and often positioned slightly lower cost.
- According to Thaiest blog: “Singha is often a few Baht more expensive than other top Thai beer brands; Chang offers strong value.”
- Style-wise: Singha is full malt, crisp; Chang may be slightly lighter in malt profile and uses rice in some variants.
- For Indian consumers: if budget allows and desire a bit more premium profile, Singha is preferred; if value is focus, Chang may suffice.
Final Word
Neither is intrinsically “better” in absolute sense—they offer slightly different profiles and price points. Choose Singha for premium malt flavour and imported brand appeal; choose Chang for value and everyday drinking.
11. Drinking Occasions & Pairing with Indian Food
Recommended Occasions
- Dining out: Pairing with Indian curries, Thai fusion, Asian cuisines.
- Social gatherings: Imported beer recognition adds novelty.
- Lounges/bars: For patrons seeking something beyond domestic beer.
- Gift or special occasion: Imported branding adds perceived value.
Food Pairing Tips for Indian Audience
- Spicy Thai or Indian dishes: Singha’s malt sweetness and crisp finish balance heat.
- Tandoori, grilled meats: The full malt body complements smoky flavours.
- Light snacks, deep-fried starters: Offer refreshment and cleanse palate.
- Seafood, sushi, Asian-fusion: Crisp lager character pairs well.
Serving Suggestion
- Serve chilled (3-5 °C) for full refreshment as suggested in one Mumbai review.
- Use a clean beer glass or chilled bottle for better aroma and mouth-feel.
- Avoid mixing with heavy sweet mixers; the beer stands well alone.
12. Factors to Consider Before Buying Imported Beer in India
When purchasing Singha or any imported beer in India, keep these in mind:
- State excise duties & pricing: Prices vary heavily by state (Maharashtra, Karnataka, Delhi etc).
- Bottle size & format: 330 ml, 500 ml cans, 650 ml bottle each priced differently.
- Import authenticity: Confirm imported label, batch code, sealed cap.
- Storage conditions: Ensure good storage (cool, away from sunlight) as imported beer quality can degrade.
- Availability: Not all states/libraries may stock; check local premium retail network.
- Drinking age & responsibility: Must comply with state drinking age; import beers often cost higher so moderation advised.
13. Frequently Asked Questions (Questionnaire)
Q1. What country is Singha Beer from?
It is from Thailand, brewed by Boon Rawd Brewery since 1933.
Q2. Which is better, Chang or Singha?
They serve slightly different segments: Singha is premium full-malt, Chang is value oriented. Choose based on budget and flavour preference.
Q3. Is Singha Beer available in India?
Yes; select imported beer retailers and premium liquor stores stock Singha. Availability varies by city and state.
Q4. What is Singha Beer alcohol percentage?
The standard version has ABV of 5.0%.
Q5. What is the price of Singha Beer in India?
Indicative prices: Mumbai 330 ml ~₹250, 650 ml ~₹460. Prices vary by city and store.
Q6. What does Singha Beer taste like?
It has a crisp, full-malt character with cereal/malt sweetness, slight hops bitterness and a refreshing finish.
Q7. How many calories does Singha Beer have?
While exact values aren’t posted, as a 5% ABV full-malt lager a 330 ml serving likely has ~140-170 calories.
Q8. Is Singha a strong beer?
No – at 5% ABV it is standard strength for a premium lager, not a “strong beer”.
Q9. What sizes does Singha beer come in India?
Common formats: 330 ml bottle, 500 ml can, 650 ml bottle.
Q10. How should Singha Beer be served?
Chilled at 3-5 °C, in a clean glass. Pairs well with spicy food, Asian cuisine and casual social occasions.
14. Final Thoughts
Singha Beer brings Thailand’s oldest brewery tradition to India’s beer drinkers seeking an imported premium lager. With its crisp malt profile, 5% ABV, and imported brand appeal, it offers a distinct step above ordinary domestic beers. For Indian consumers at urban bars, lounges and premium retail stores, it is an excellent choice to diversify beer repertoire, enjoy with meals or gift something distinctive.
Although pricing is higher than domestic beers (due to import duties and distribution), the value lies in flavour, brand heritage and global recognition. In comparison to peer Thai beers like Chang, Singha offers slightly elevated malt body and brand prestige.
For best experience: ensure chilled serving, pair with spicy or grilled Indian foods, and appreciate it as a premium imported lager rather than just another beer.
15. Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Alcohol consumption is restricted to individuals above the legal drinking age in their respective Indian states. Prices and availability of Singha Beer may vary by state, retailer and time. Please drink responsibly and in moderation.
