How Monte Carlo Beer is bringing a taste of Monaco to London's summer

In association with

The first hint of a heatwave is all it takes. Pavements spill onto terraces, parks become picnic grounds, and rooftops fill with people determined to make the most of every golden hour. For a fleeting few weeks, London adopts a Riviera state of mind. Lunches stretch into late afternoons, aperitifs become dinner, and the city feels just a little more relaxed.

Of course, while we may not have the superyachts of Port Hercule or the impossibly blue waters of the Côte d'Azur, there's something rather appealing about borrowing the rituals of the Mediterranean. Good company. Unhurried conversation. A beautifully chilled beer enjoyed in the sunshine.

That philosophy is precisely what sits behind Monte Carlo Beer.

Founded in 2019 by Monégasque friends William Scheffer and Anthony Orengo, the brand was born from a simple ambition: to bottle the effortless elegance of Monaco and bring a little of that lifestyle wherever it's enjoyed. More than simply creating another premium lager, the pair wanted to capture a feeling, one rooted in slow afternoons and riviera living.

Every detail reflects those origins. The distinctive three gold diamonds that adorn each bottle are inspired by an official emblem of the Principality of Monaco approved by the Prince's Palace, while the founders' own signatures reinforce the personal story behind the label.

The beer itself is brewed with French Triskel hops, Monte Carlo Beer is a crisp 4.8 per cent lager with delicate floral aromas, subtle citrus notes and a clean, refreshing finish. It's light enough for a long lunch, balanced enough for an early evening aperitif, and possesses the sort of easy drinkability that encourages another round as the sun begins to dip.

As William Scheffer explains: "Monte Carlo has always been about more than just beer. We wanted to create something that captures the atmosphere of the Riviera — relaxed and elegant. Whether you're sitting by the Mediterranean or making the most of a heatwave in the UK, it's about slowing down and enjoying the moment."

It's a sentiment that's perhaps more relevant than ever. London has quietly become one of Europe's great summer cities, especially over the last couple of months. As soon as the sun appears, terraces come alive, canal-side tables fill within minutes, and rooftops become some of the capital's most desirable addresses.

Anthony Orengo agrees.

"London has an incredible outdoor drinking culture when the sun arrives. We love seeing people embrace terraces, rooftops and canal spots that almost transport you somewhere else. Monte Carlo Beer is made for those moments, bringing a little taste of Monaco to wherever you're enjoying summer."

And that's perhaps the appeal of Monte Carlo Beer. It doesn't ask you to recreate Monaco. Instead, it encourages you to embrace the same slower pace and appreciation for life's simpler pleasures, whether that's an impromptu drink after work, an afternoon in the park or an evening spent watching the sunset from a favourite rooftop.

This summer, we'd recommend doing exactly that. Find a sunny terrace, gather good friends and raise a bottle to the Riviera spirit, no passport required.