Craft Beer on Grand Cayman

As the Charlotte region was bracing for its first winter storm of the season, I was fortunate enough to visit Grand Cayman to enjoy some summer-like weather during the winter months (a habit I wish to establish moving into the years ahead).

With all my travels, the local craft beer scene is always top of mind. And when travelling to the Caribbean, my anxiety about finding a good brew or two to try always heightens. Places like Jamaica, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands are almost completely devoid of craft beers, while the island nation of Aruba (on a visit two years ago) was a delightful surprise.

Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman

As I prepared for my winter journey to Grand Cayman, I did some quick research on craft beer scene in George Town and found there would likely be at least a couple of options for me when I arrived.

In my short 4-day stay I was pleasantly surprised in the quality of the few options I had. In the retail stores and the restaurants there were predominantly two breweries that dominated the tap list: 19-81 Brewing and Cayman Island Brewing (or Caybrew Brewing), both located on the island.

The first brew I indulged in was the Tropical IPA from 19-81 Brewing. It was a rich copper color and reminded me a lot of Founder’s Centennial IPA. Excellent hop profile with a slightly malty backbone. I was pleased with my first choice in Grand Cayman.

Tropical IPA, 19-81 Brewing

Next, I learned on my first trip to the local market that alcohol is not sold in grocery stores. I found my way to a nearby package store where I picked up a few 6-packs for the days ahead.

Caybrew Island Hopper Cold Brew IPA was the next brew I enjoyed. This dry-hooped brew is brewed with lager yeast. At only 5% ABV, it was a lighter, tropical brew that was quite enjoyable.

Island Hopper, Caybrew

Hopnosis was Caybrew’s West Coast IPA offering. This brew had an aroma I could just not get past, so will not say more.

We did not find many imports on the island, but we did find a light, crisp premium lager by Royal Dutch Brewery out of the Netherlands. Of the lagers we found on the island, including 19-81’s Ridgefield Pilsner, this premium lager became a go-to for time spent by the ocean and the pool.

Royal Dutch, Premium Lager

And lastly, on the higher ABV end of things, the highest beer we found was the Ironshore Bock, also brewed by Caybrew. I was concerned this beer may be on the sweet side, however, this one was well balanced and a delightful rendition of the style. Malty, but not too sweet, and a comfortable 7% ABV when we were in the mood for something a little stronger.

Ironshore Bock, Caybrew

In summary, while the variety of craft brew options on Grand Cayman were quite limited, most of the brews that were available, and locally brewed, did not disappoint.

Cheers,

Rob Jacik (President & Owner: Carolina Beer Temple)