What Is XXXX Beer? Australia's Pride And Joy Explained

The history of XXXX beer

It didn't take long for XXXX beer to gain popularity in Queensland. However, the brand faced challenges in distributing its beer to the drier and hotter regions of Australia. Enter Alhois 'Bill' Leitner, the new master brewer for XXXX. With a background in brewing from Germany and Austria, Leitner discovered an innovative method to clean the brewing vessels, effectively addressing the transportation issues that had hindered XXXX's reach across the country. He also launched XXXX Bitter, a brew that has remained unchanged since its debut in 1924. That same year marked the introduction of the brand's mascot, Mr. Fourex, who, with a playful wink and a raised glass, has become a beloved figure among Queenslanders.

XXXX has a longstanding tradition of using its renowned beer to uplift spirits and contribute positively to society. After observing that returning soldiers craved a glass of XXXX following WWI, the company began sending beer to troops during WWII and the Vietnam War. They also stepped in to save pubs on the brink of foreclosure and supported struggling farmers during the Great Depression. Remarkably, they even managed to deliver beer during the Queensland Floods of 1974, 2011, and 2013. This legacy of goodwill is a significant reason why XXXX beer is cherished throughout Australia.

What does XXXX beer taste like?

If you're hoping to grab a case of XXXX beer at your local grocery store in the U.S., you're out of luck. The brand only distributes its beer in Australia. Despite its popularity, the reviews for the beer are not particularly impressive. One reviewer on Beer Advocate describes XXXX Gold as "forgettable neutral," while another states it's "nice to try, once." It holds an average rating of 2.48 out of 5. RateBeer rates it even lower, with an overall score of 1.88 out of 5, and reviews vary from "bready with some spice" to "refreshing, but nothing remarkable."

The company currently offers seven varieties of beer: XXXX Gold with an alcohol content of 3.5%, XXXX Bitter at 4.4%, XXXX Dry at 4.2%, Summer Bright Lager at 4%, Summer Bright Lime at 4%, Summer Bright Mango at 4%, and XXXX Zero, a non-alcoholic option.

The brand describes XXXX Gold as having "a balanced, smooth flavor and body, with mild bitterness and a hint of sweetness." According to the company, Summer Bright Lager boasts a refreshing taste and a smooth hop character. The non-alcoholic beer is noted for its crisp finish and subtle aroma. If you find yourself traveling to Australia, XXXX beer is definitely worth sampling for its unique history and exclusivity.

XXXX: A brand steeped in Aussie culture

XXXX beer has always embraced its Australian heritage. This is clearly reflected in the brand's commitment to supporting Australians during times of war and economic hardship in the past, and it continues to serve as a symbol of community spirit today. Celebrating the Queensland region that contributed to its success, XXXX is well-known for its longstanding partnership with the Queensland rugby team, the Maroons. In fact, the beer company values its Queensland roots so much that in 2022, it chose not to display its logo on the team's jerseys, opting instead to feature local postcodes as a heartfelt tribute to the team's loyal supporters and the brewery itself.

However, if you think XXXX is confined to just one part of Australia, think again. The brand has a significant presence across the country and is dedicated to embodying the fun-loving, relaxed Aussie spirit. At one point, it even leased an entire island along the Great Barrier Reef to host a prize draw, offering winners a chance to enjoy a getaway with friends in a secluded paradise. Is it a clever marketing strategy? Absolutely. But it’s undeniable that since its founding, XXXX has consistently aimed to capture the essence of the Australian culture it cherishes.