Ethiopian beers provide gateway into exotic new world of flavor

About 15 miles from Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, a brewery sits next to a soft mineral spring. The water from the spring meets international brewing standards, as it requires no additional treatment. The locals call it “holy water.”

The brewery also maintains a public park on its grounds where people can gather to enjoy nature along with Meta, which the brewery produces and which Kebede Tadesse, a businessman who distributes Ethiopian beer in the U.S., called “the king of beers in Ethiopia.”

Meta and other Ethiopian beers offer a possible alternative to common American beer for many reasons that could make them attractive to American consumers. But for the time being, enthusiasts will have to work to find them, as several factors currently limit availability in the U.S.

And among those who already appreciate them, loyalty is fierce. Read more