Ginger beer is everything right now

Ginger beer isn’t just for people who don’t like beer, though it is often thought of that way. It’s a zingy, spicy, sparkly number that deserves its time in the sun (hello, summer). So, we’ve rounded up a few of our fave alcoholic ginger beers for your perusal. From big spicy numbers to sweeter, more refreshing sippers, ginger beer is coming back in a big way, so get onboard. But before we show you our stellar list (don’t mind if we do), what exactly is ginger beer, and why has it been kicking on for so long?

Traditionally, ginger beer is a fermented mix of ginger, sugar, yeast or a SCOBY (and sometimes citrus) in water. It’s a process very similar to how kombucha (read more about that here) or even sourdough are made; these days, however, ginger beer producers tend to add carbonation to speed up production. It was first sipped in England around the 18th century and alcoholic versions were initially made at around the same percentage as regular beers. Ginger ale, on the other hand, is a Canadian invention and generally less gingery, sweeter and not alcoholic. We love a ginger beer, not only because it’s damn scrumptious, but it’s also a great cocktail ingredient – who doesn’t love a Moscow Mule or a Dark and Stormy? So, whether you’re mixing up a cheeky ginger cocktail or casually sipping it in the sun, here are our recos.