Rupee Beer Launches Distribution Across the San Francisco Bay Area

Award-Winning Indian-Inspired Beer Brand Expands National Footprint Into One of America’s Most Influential Food & Beverage Markets.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Rupee Beer, the pioneering Indian-inspired beer brand redefining how beer pairs with global cuisine, has officially launched distribution throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.

The expansion marks a major milestone in the company’s national growth strategy and introduces Rupee Beer’s acclaimed lineup to one of the country’s most sophisticated and internationally influenced culinary markets.

Named “Best Beer to Pair with World Food” and recognized through a growing list of industry awards, national media features, and retail partnerships, Rupee Beer has quickly emerged as a category-defining brand focused on enhancing the experience of pairing beer with bold, spice-driven cuisine.

The Bay Area rollout is powered through new partnerships with Markstein Sales Company and Mattagrano Inc., two of Northern California’s premier beverage distributors.

“The Bay Area is one of the most culturally diverse and global food-forward regions in the world, making it a natural fit for Rupee Beer,” said co-founder Sumit Sharma. “Our mission has always been to create beers that elevate global flavors and bring more intentionality to food and beer pairing.”

A Portfolio Designed for Global Cuisine

Rupee Beer’s portfolio was developed specifically to complement the depth, spice, and complexity of Indian and international dishes. Current offerings include:

• Basmati Rice Lager (Flagship)
• India Pale Ale
• Mango Wheat Ale (Seasonal)
• Non-Alcoholic
• Darjeeling Hard Tea

The beers were developed in collaboration with legendary master brewer Alan Pugsley, whose 40+ year career includes launching more than 100 beer brands worldwide. Known for its clean, crisp, and food-friendly profile, Rupee Beer has gained recognition for offering a modern alternative to traditional beer pairings, particularly alongside spicy and globally inspired cuisine.

Founded From Restaurant Roots

Brothers Van & Sumit Sharma, sons of Indian restaurateurs with over half a century in the restaurant trade, grew up immersed in the flavors of Indian cuisine. After their family immigrated to Portland, Maine from Europe, the brothers noticed the lack of reliable distribution of Indian beer in the state—often cited as the least diverse in America.

After living in London and Australia for several years, the brothers returned home to Maine during the pandemic. Inspired by their upbringing and frustrated by limited beer options that truly paired with Indian food, they set out to create a fresher, locally crafted, Indian-inspired beer designed specifically for spicy and global dishes.

Continued National Expansion

Now available in 23 states, Rupee Beer continues to expand its national presence while championing the intersection where craft beer meets import beer. As consumer demand for globally inspired food and beverage experiences continues to rise, Rupee Beer is positioning itself at the forefront of a rapidly evolving category.