Brazilian New England / Hazy IPA

Most folks would more readily associate the country of Brazil with soccer, beaches and the Amazon than with beer. However, this South American paradise actually has a long and vibrant history of brewing. Many well-known brands are crafted in Brazil and they find their ways to all corners of the planet.

Beer brewing first arrived in Brazil thanks to an influx of German immigrants in the early 19th century. Some of the first Brazilian breweries were opened nearly 200 years ago, beginning in Petrópolis, Rio de Janeiro, with the production of the legendary brew Bohemia. Today, the city is home to both a Kirin factory and the Grupo Petrópolis headquarters (makers of brands such as Black Princess, Petra and Crystal.)

You may have heard of Brahma, arguably Brazil's most famous beer, but there are several other top brands that are sourced there. Skol, Antarctica, Xingu, Belo, Way Beer and Novo are all important Brazilian beer. Imports are greatly appreciated within the country's borders as well. In addition, a handful of microbreweries such as Baden Baden and Eisenbahn are located there.

Brazil is behind only China and the U.S. as the world's largest market for our favorite bubbly beverage. It's no wonder that the biggest Oktoberfest on Earth, outside of Germany of course, takes place in Blumenau, Brazil. Nearly a million beer lovers make the pilgrimage to Blumenau every year.