A Guide to Sri Lankan Alcoholic Beverages

Sri Lanka has a rich tradition of brewing and distilling alcoholic beverages, blending age-old techniques with modern craftsmanship. From world-famous beers to the unique arrack, the island offers a diverse range of drinks that reflect its history and culture.

Beer in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's beer industry is dominated by Lion Brewery, a well-established brand with seven distinct beers in its portfolio:

• Lion Lager
• Carlsberg
• Carlsberg Special Brew
• Lion Stout
• Strong Beer
• Corona
• Somersby

Most beers in Sri Lanka have an alcohol content of around 4.8%, making them a refreshing choice in the island's tropical climate.

Arrack – The Spirit of Sri Lanka

One of Sri Lanka’s most iconic alcoholic beverages is arrack, the world’s only naturally fermented alcoholic spirit made from toddy, a sap extracted from coconut palm flowers.

The Traditional Process of Making Arrack

1. Tapping the Coconut Palm: Skilled workers collect drops of liquid (toddy) from the flower of the coconut palm.
2. Fermentation: The sap ferments naturally due to the yeast present in the environment.
3. Collection & Distillation: Every 12 hours, toddy is collected and transported to distilleries, where it undergoes distillation to produce arrack.

This age-old craft has been passed down from generation to generation, making arrack a deeply rooted tradition in Sri Lanka. Unlike many spirits, Coconut Arrack does not contain methanol, making it as safe as any internationally recognized alcoholic beverage.

Other Locally Manufactured Spirits

Beyond arrack, Sri Lanka also produces a variety of brandy, whisky, gin, vodka, and rum. To support local manufacturing, the country imports methanol in large quantities for the production of these spirits under licensed distilleries.

The Availability of Imported Liquor

Most wine shops across Sri Lanka offer a wide selection of imported alcoholic beverages, often at very competitive prices. However, it is always advisable to check for authenticity before purchasing, as counterfeit liquor can sometimes find its way into the market.

Final Thoughts

Whether you are a beer lover, an arrack enthusiast, or a fan of classic spirits, Sri Lanka’s alcoholic beverage industry has something for everyone. If you ever visit, make sure to experience a glass of authentic Ceylon Arrack—a true taste of the island’s history and craftsmanship!