Top 05 Premium Lager Beer in India: Brands & Price Guide 2025

The Indian beer landscape has evolved significantly. While budget strong beers still dominate, consumer preferences are shifting towards smoother, craft‑style, and internationally renowned premium lagers. With rising disposable incomes and adventurous palates, discerning drinkers are exploring flavour-forward yet sessionable beers. This article dives into the top premium lagers of 2025, considering flavour profiles, popularity, and city‑wise pricing – especially in Delhi and Mumbai.

Heineken

Style & USP: Dutch premium lager, crisp, slightly bitter, with balanced hop notes.
Delhi Price (500 ml): INR 150–INR 160
Mumbai Price (500 ml): INR 200
Why It’s Top Tier:

• Internationally consistent, brewed with high-quality malt and hops.
  
  
• Widely available and trusted—ideal for those seeking a clean, recognizable taste.

Corona Extra

Style & USP: Mexican lager; light-bodied, with subtle citrus and clean finish.
Delhi Price (330 ml): INR 200 (MRP)
Mumbai Price (330 ml): INR 210
Why It’s Premium:

• Pairs well with tropical (Som Tam, fish curry) and continental cuisine.
  
  
• Strong brand identity & served with lime—an iconic refreshment choice.

Carlsberg Elephant / All Malt

Style & USP: Danish lager including Elephant Strong (7% ABV) and All Malt (5% ABV).
Delhi Price (650 ml): Elephant INR 165, All Malt INR 160
Mumbai Price (650 ml): Elephant Strong ~INR 200
Why It Stands Out:

• Elephant offers strong character; All Malt balances premium flavour with moderate strength.
  
  
• Appeals to both serious and casual drinkers.

Budweiser (Magnum/International)

Style & USP: American-style lager; medium-bodied, slightly sweet, smooth.
Delhi Price (330 ml): INR 130; (500 ml): INR 190
Mumbai Price (500 ml can): INR 190
Why It’s a Favorite:

• Globally available, consistent profile.
  
  
• AB InBev's flagship—quietly premium, crowd-pleasing.

Kingfisher Ultra

Style & USP: Indian premium lager—smooth, with mild malt sweetness.
Delhi Price (500 ml): Ultra INR 130; Ultra Max INR 160; Storm INR 120
Mumbai Price (500 ml): Ultra INR 190; Premium Malt Strong INR 200
Why It’s Premium:

• Local alternative to international imports; consistent and appealing.
  
  
• Gaining from UB's focus on higher-tier beers (see UB’s consumer strategy).

Honorable Mentions

• Bira 91 Blonde – Indian craft lager with lemony hops; Delhi INR 110–INR 150, Mumbai INR 160–INR 200.
  
  
• Asahi – Japanese premium lager; Delhi ~INR 150.
  
  
• Peroni Nastro Azzurro – Italian premium lager; Delhi INR 130 for 330 ml.
  
  

Summing Up

2025’s premium lager segment in India caters to diverse tastes—from internationally popular lagers to strong, locally brewed favourites. For consistency and crispness, Heineken and Corona are top contenders. For malt-forward profiles, Carlsberg’s Elephant and All Malt lead the category. Mumbai tends to price slightly higher than Delhi, likely due to taxes and market demand. Local innovation from Kingfisher Ultra and craft options like Bira 91 enrich the market further.

Whether you're a light-session enthusiast, malt-lover, or seeking an alcoholic kick, India’s premium lager scene in 2025 has something refreshing for everyone.