Beer-articles 947

Beer is one of the most beloved alcoholic beverages, commonly associated with various celebrations and social gatherings. Understanding the details about beer, especially regarding its longevity and storage, is essential for enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.

Does Beer Expire?

Beer doesn’t technically spoil like food items might because pathogenic bacteria cannot thrive in it. However, over time, beer can lose its desirable qualities, leading to a disappointing drinking experience. Registered dietitian Baker indicates that while consuming expired beer won’t make you sick, its taste can change, primarily due to oxidation and the presence of ethanol.

How Long Can Beer Last?

If kept unopened and refrigerated, many beers can last about two years beyond their expiration date. In contrast, if stored at room temperature, they generally only last four to six months. Over time, and especially for beers with higher alcohol content, certain varieties can even improve with age, similar to fine wine.

Signs That Beer Has Gone Bad

To determine if beer is no longer at its prime, watch for these signs:

• No sound ("psst") upon opening the bottle or can.
• Lack of foam when poured.
• Unusual smells, such as a skunky scent in beers that should not have it.
• Excessive sediment.
• A taste that appears flat, stale, overly sweet, or oddly sour.

Best Storage Practices for Beer

The ideal storage solution for beer is in the refrigerator, as it maintains its freshness longer. If refrigeration is not possible, keeping beer at room temperature is acceptable for short periods, but it significantly reduces shelf life. Always store beer upright to minimize oxidation and potential leakage, as light exposure can negatively impact beer quality.

Tips for Buying Beer

When purchasing beer, consider the following tips to ensure you select high-quality options:

1. Buy Cold: Acquire cold beer to help it stay fresh longer.
2. High-Volume Retailers: Purchase from locations with high inventory turnover to ensure freshness.
3. Check Dates: Use the "best by" or "bottled on" dates to select the freshest beer, especially for events.

Tips for Storing Beer

To prolong the quality of your beer, adhere to these storage recommendations:

• Maintain a cold and dark environment, as temperature fluctuations are detrimental.
• Keep beer upright to prevent potential oxidation.
• Shield beer from light exposure, which can lead to skunky flavors.

For more information on beer expiration and general tips, visit the article on Southern Living.

George Washington’s original beer recipe has been brought back to life thanks to the New York Public Library’s collaboration with the Talea Beer Co. As part of the celebration of America 250, the library requested the brewery to craft a small batch of beer based on Washington’s 1757 recipe, which was penned during his time as a colonel in the Virginia militia.

In the 18th century, beer served a vital role in the diets of troops, providing a safer alternative to contaminated water. "Small beer" was a low-alcohol beverage (1 to 3 percent) that Washington described in his recipe, which includes hops, yeast, water, and an ample amount of molasses, leading to a unique sweetness and flavor profile.

Eric Brown, Talea’s brewmaster, explains that this brew differs significantly from modern beers. It is a dark amber color, cloudy due to lack of filtering, and imparts complex flavors reminiscent of wine—rich with spices and minerality. Interestingly, this historical beverage was typically served at room temperature, taking on the temperature of the environment in which it was consumed.

For those inspired to try creating Washington’s small beer at home, the library has made the recipe available online. With suggestions to use baking molasses and clean brewing techniques, aspiring brewers can attempt to recreate a taste of history.

If you want to explore Washington’s beer recipe, you can find it on the New York Public Library’s website.

For more historical insights, check out related content on Beer, historical documents, and George Washington.

As grocery prices continue to rise dramatically, many American consumers are curious about how this trend affects their favorite beverages, specifically beer prices over the decades. The beer market has transformed significantly from the 1970s to the 2020s, shifting from a few dominant brands like Budweiser, Miller High Life, and Coors to a plethora of craft beer options.

In the 1970s, shoppers at the Albany Public Market in New York would find a six-pack of Miller High Life for $0.99 in June and Budweiser even cheaper at $0.89 in March. Fast forward to today, prices have escalated markedly. A six-pack of Miller High Life now costs around $5.99, a 600% increase (though the current cans are larger at 16 ounces instead of 12). Budweiser’s price is harder to compare directly as six-packs have largely fallen out of favor; currently, a 12-pack of Budweiser retails for about $13.99, equating to nearly $7 for six cans, representing an increase of roughly 800%.

Understanding these price changes in the context of inflation reveals a more nuanced picture. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates the buying power of $1 in 1970 to be approximately $8.60 today. Thus, while beer prices have indeed risen, they have done so at a slower rate than general inflation, suggesting that modern beer prices are comparable to those from the 1970s when adjusted for inflation.

The reason behind beer prices not keeping pace with inflation relates to the economics of beer production. Major beer producers have optimized their processes, allowing them to reduce costs via bulk ingredient purchases and efficient packaging. This stability in large-scale brewing keeps prices lower. In contrast, craft beers, which are produced in smaller quantities with more expensive ingredients, often command higher prices. The average six-pack of craft beer can go for around $11, indicating the premium consumers pay for these artisanal options.

Ultimately, while sticker shock may accompany the current prices at checkout, consumers still enjoy a fair deal with big-brand beers today when inflation is taken into account. The trade-off lies in the vastly expanded market options—where once there were only a few selections, now there are thousands of craft varieties to choose from, each with their own price tags.

The Tallahassee craft brewery, Ology Brewing Company, is celebrating its 9th anniversary this weekend, marking a significant milestone since its inception in Midtown in 2017. Ology has become a pivotal player in Tallahassee’s craft beer scene, leading to the establishment of the Tallahassee Beer Society, an idea inspired by the brewery’s success and propelled by community support.

When Ology opened its doors nearly a decade ago, it was the fifth brewery in Tallahassee, enticing craft beer enthusiasts to explore local offerings. The initiative ultimately transformed the city into a hub for craft beer, encouraging even more visitors to indulge in the burgeoning microbrew culture.

To commemorate this landmark occasion, Ology has planned four special beer releases, including:

• Aquatank: A collaborative 8% Hazy Oat Milk Double IPA featuring hops from various respected breweries.
• Knights of the Round: A robust 14% Barrel-Aged Imperial Stout infused with hazelnuts, coconut, marshmallow, and coffee.
• Knight Cap: A creamy liqueur mirroring the flavors of Knights of the Round.
• 9 Year Rye: A special rye whiskey aged in barrels for nine years, celebrated for its rich flavors.

Co-founder Nick Walker reflected on the brewery’s journey, expressing gratitude for the community’s continual support and for the dedicated team that has helped Ology evolve over the years. He noted the excitement surrounding their anniversary as a time for appreciation and celebration.

Local fans are encouraged to visit Ology’s taprooms this weekend to raise a glass in honor of nine fantastic years and to take advantage of special membership perks, including complimentary shots for members.

For more details, see Ology Brewing Company here.

The Great American Beer Festival, a significant event in the U.S. beer scene, will make a historic shift in 2026 by moving outdoors for the first time since its inception over 40 years ago. This change aims to rejuvenate interest and adapt to evolving consumer preferences, particularly among younger beer drinkers seeking outdoor experiences.

Previously held at the Colorado Convention Center, the festival is now set to take place at Denver’s Levitt Pavilion, which introduces the challenge of unpredictable weather. Amid concerns about the smaller scale of the event leading to its decline, organizers believe that an outdoor setting could attract a new audience.

The festival will feature a limited attendance of 7,500 per session on two days, October 10 and 11, 2026. This downsized version is designed to be logistically simpler while still offering an opportunity for breweries to showcase their best products. Up to 220 breweries are expected to participate, with approximately 75% of them having earned accolades at prestigious competitions.

A significant highlight will be the return of the awards ceremony to the festival grounds, enhancing the overall experience for attendees. These changes reflect a strategic pivot not just for the festival but also for the breweries involved, aiming to align better with contemporary consumer desires.

Tickets for the event will be available starting June 25, 2026, offering enthusiasts a chance to experience the celebration of craft beer in a new, dynamic environment.

With the recent announcement that Schlitz beer will cease production, my memories of Kite’s, a popular tavern in Aggieville, come flooding back. During my time at Kansas State University from 1969 to 1973, Kite’s was my second home. This bar exclusively served Schlitz beer on tap, and after a disappointing experience with a can, I vowed only to drink it fresh on tap.

Kite’s was taken over by Terry Ray in 1969, following its establishment by Keith “Kite” Thomas, a former K-State and professional baseball player. The establishment thrived on its simple offerings—a place for 18-year-olds to gather and enjoy 3.2% alcohol beer. The atmosphere was distinctly casual, marked by the scent of spilled drinks and walls adorned with photographs of K-State sports legends, all underscored by the lively tunes from a jukebox.

It was the hub for students on Fridays, with everyone scrambling for a booth or hopping between tables to socialise. Living just two blocks away at the Sigma Chi fraternity house made Kite’s our go-to hangout and, often, our “annex.”

Years later, while sifting through old checks, I realized just how many I had written to Kite’s—frequenting it was like banking for my university days. One memory stands out: returning from spring break in 1970, I recall the jukebox blaring Three Dog Night’s "Joy to the World," and noticing that the price of a pitcher had risen from one dollar to $1.25, and steins from 25 cents to 30 cents—a bitter reminder of inflation during the Vietnam War era.

During its heyday, Schlitz ranked as the second-best-selling beer in America. After graduation, my path took me away from taverns and back to academia, marking an end to my love story with Schlitz. Eventually, Kite’s closed, but it later reemerged as Kite’s Bar and Grill, offering a more enhanced dining experience.

To the friends I shared those beer-soaked memories with, let’s raise a toast the next time we enjoy a drink together—after all, “When you’re out of Schlitz, you’re out of beer.”

The Iowa Athletics Department has partnered with Big Grove Brewery to introduce "TIGERHAWK," a new beer aimed at supporting the university’s sports teams. A portion of the sales from this beer will directly benefit Hawkeye athletics, providing critical funding to ensure the university’s success in various sports amid the changing landscape of collegiate athletics.

Matt Swift, co-founder and CEO of Big Grove Brewery, emphasized the unique nature of this beer, stating, "We wanted to create a beer that Iowans are proud to hold—not just because it looks amazing and tastes great, but because every sip helps the Hawks win." The beer celebrates Iowa’s sport heritage and is designed to be broadly appealing, catering to all fans, whether they be farmers, alumni, or lifelong supporters of the Hawkeyes.

Matt Henderson, Deputy Director of Athletics at the University of Iowa, expressed excitement about this partnership. He highlighted that "TIGERHAWK" not only enhances the experience for fans but also provides a direct way for them to support Iowa’s athletic programs while enjoying a locally crafted beer.

Starting June 8, "TIGERHAWK" will be available year-round across the state, with expanded distribution expected as football season approaches. It will be offered in various formats, including draft, 12-pack, and 24-pack options, along with individual cans available at Kinnick Stadium and Carver-Hawkeye Arena during games.

During the 1980s, American beer culture experienced significant changes. Though beer consumption was at an all-time high, the market was evolving. Brands like Schlitz fell out of favor, overshadowed by major players such as Anheuser-Busch and Bud Light. Light lagers remained popular, while imported beers like Heineken and Corona started gaining traction.

This decade also marked the emergence of craft brewing, as small-scale American breweries began making their mark with distinctive styles. Iconic names such as Sierra Nevada, Bell’s Brewery, and Samuel Adams entered the scene, coinciding with the rise of Genesee Cream Ale, a best-seller that gained prominence from the late 1970s to the mid-1980s. Though Genesee Cream Ale originally launched in 1960, its success during the ’80s highlighted a broader renaissance in American brewing.

Cream ales had been around since the 19th century but dwindled during Prohibition. Genesee Brewery in Rochester, New York, revitalized this style, appealing to beer enthusiasts who sought alternatives to standard lagers. The brewery cultivated a strong regional following, positioning Genesee Cream Ale as both a local favorite and a national success.

What distinguishes this cream ale? Unlike lagers, cream ales are ales, meaning they ferment with yeast at warmer temperatures, yielding a fuller-bodied drinking experience. Genesee Cream Ale has a slightly higher alcohol content of 5.1% ABV, compared to the typical 4% of light lagers. The use of the term "cream" may be misleading; while it offers a hint of bitterness, it is not primarily creamy. Genesee’s appeal lies in its balance of character and drinkability.

Since its introduction, Genesee Cream Ale has garnered several awards and continues to be a staple in many markets. Though it wasn’t the first cream ale—Krueger’s Cream Ale predated it, debuting in 1935—few have managed to maintain a presence like Genesee, especially in the context of the craft beer explosion.

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San Antonio’s Alamo Beer Company is set to reopen its taproom in July following a five-month hiatus for renovations. The iconic brewery, located at 202 Lamar St., has been closed since February, but the upcoming reopening marks a fresh start after the company was acquired by the private equity firm SKJ Capital in December 2025.

The acquisition came after Alamo Beer Co. filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier that year, leading to new plans for modernization of its facilities and a revamp of its legacy taproom designed by Lake Flato. The investment aims to provide strategic oversight to stabilize and grow the brand, which has faced challenges similar to other breweries in the San Antonio area.

As part of this transition, Jason Pond has been appointed as the new CEO, bringing extensive experience from across the brewing industry. The renovations are expected to enhance the brewery’s community presence while also improving its manufacturing capabilities. Despite these changes, the brand will continue to offer its classic beers and seasonal releases, including popular collaborations like the viral King of the Hill.

While the grand reopening date hasn’t been officially announced, fans can stay updated by signing up for notifications on Alamo Beer’s website.

A Certified Cicerone’s Guide to Beer for Wine Lovers

Certified Cicerone Anne Becerra understands the hesitation wine lovers face when approaching beer. Many find it overwhelming and foreign, but Becerra believes that wine drinkers have the tools to understand beer because many of the same concepts, like body, texture, and aromatics, are applicable to both beverages.

For those looking to explore beer, Becerra suggests starting with styles that mirror wines they already enjoy. For instance, a Belgian dubbel is a great recommendation for Pinot Noir enthusiasts because it features similar flavors of jammy fig and dried cherry with a clean finish. Sauvignon Blanc fans might appreciate a pale ale like Maine Beer Company’s Peeper, which carries herbaceous and citrus notes, while Cabernet Sauvignon drinkers can enjoy a Scotch ale such as Traquair House Brewery’s House Ale, known for its robustness and sweet undertones.

Becerra encourages wine lovers to think in terms of flavors rather than strictly styles when choosing beer. Just like in wine, elements such as body, acidity, and finish have their beer counterparts. For example, beer color hints at the malt flavors to expect, while aroma can reveal if it is hop-forward or yeast-driven.

When navigating the beer aisle, Becerra emphasizes clarity in what you are seeking—whether it’s a pairing for dinner or simply an exploration of new flavors. Noting the beer’s style name and trusted producers can help refine your choices. Labels with tasting notes are especially helpful, and fresh dates should be prioritized, especially for hop-forward beers.

Wine lovers should not overlook sour beers, regarded as a great entry point. These beers, ranging from Berliner weisse to Belgian lambics, offer a range of flavors that can intrigue those fond of acidity.

Becerra points out that beer has significant advantages at the dinner table, particularly its carbonation, which can cleanse the palate. The wide range of flavors found in beer — from bready to fruity — allows for versatile food pairings. For instance, pairing a fruity golden ale with asparagus or dark chocolate with a German eisbock can create unforgettable dining experiences.

Additionally, proper glassware is essential for appreciating the nuances of beer, as using an appropriate glass enhances its flavors and aromas.

For those interested in exploring renowned breweries, Becerra highlights the importance of visiting cult-favorite locations like Russian River Brewing Company in California and Brasserie Cantillon in Brussels to experience exceptional brews firsthand.

Thus, with a few foundational tips, wine lovers are encouraged to embrace the world of beer, discovering preferences that align with their established wine tastes.

For more insights on beer pairings and recommendations, visit: Food & Wine