Wine & drink in Kazakhstan
Including Almaty Craft Beer District and Turgen Wine Valley. On the map.
The vibe
Sipping chilled fermented mare's milk from a wooden bowl offers a bracingly tart taste of ancient nomadic tradition alongside a growing craft beer and lounge scene in the cities. Summer is the lively season for outdoor terraces and buzzing evening patios. The bar culture feels overwhelmingly local and unpretentious, with plenty of room to strike up conversations without running into tourist traps.
Almaty Craft Beer District
Алматы
Anton Yefimov / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Almaty has developed a vibrant craft beer scene, particularly concentrated around the city center and the Panfilov Street area. Visitors explore a variety of independent microbreweries and specialty taprooms that showcase both traditional brewing techniques and modern experimental flavors.
Access. Easily walkable within the city center; most breweries are clustered near the pedestrian-friendly zones of Almaty.
Notes. Many breweries offer brewery tours and tasting flights, though checking opening hours in advance is recommended.
Turgen Wine Valley
Almaty Region
Anton Yefimov / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Nestled in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau, this region is emerging as a premier destination for high-altitude viticulture. Travelers visit to explore boutique wineries that specialize in cool-climate varietals, enjoying tastings against a backdrop of dramatic mountain scenery.
Access. Located about 70km east of Almaty, the valley is best accessed by private car or guided wine tours departing from the city.
Notes. Best visited from late spring to early autumn for optimal weather and vineyard tours.