About this beer

Geist Brewing Co. is one of the names that put Bengaluru on India's craft beer map. Led by co-founder and CEO Narayan Manepally, the brewery is known for well-made European styles and for running a near zero liquid discharge brewery. In 2026 Geist brought its canned range to Kolkata, and James Blond, with its playful spy-film name, is the most characterful of the line-up: a Belgian-style strong blond ale at 7.7% ABV.

Belgian blonds are all about the yeast, and James Blond follows the style: a hazy golden pour with fruity notes of pear and banana, a little clove-like spice and a soft, honeyed malt body, finishing drier than you might expect with moderate bitterness (26 IBU). It is a beer to sip and savour rather than gulp, and a good introduction to Belgian-style ales for anyone used to lagers. Bring it to the table with a proper meal, or share a can or two among friends who enjoy trying Indian craft beer.

Key facts

• Belgian-style strong blond ale, 7.7% ABV and 26 IBU
• Brewed in Bengaluru by Geist Brewing Co., co-founded by CEO Narayan Manepally
• Launched in Kolkata in 500 ml cans as part of Geist's 2026 expansion
• Geist runs a near zero liquid discharge brewery in Bengaluru

Tasting notes

Aroma:

ripe pear, banana, clove and honeyed malt

Taste:

soft and fruity, gentle spice, light sweetness balanced by moderate bitterness

Finish:

dry, warming and lightly spicy

Serve

Serve cool rather than ice-cold, around 6-8°C, in a tulip or wine glass to show off the aroma.

Food pairing

Lovely with chingri malai curry or mustard-steamed fish, and with mussels in white wine or a creamy chicken pie.