Celebrating Jimmy Carter: From President to Craft Beer Pioneer

If you were to visit Twain’s Brewpub & Billiards in Decatur, Ga., you might notice a proud display on the walls. Amongst the photos and memorabilia, there is a picture of former President Jimmy Carter, taken during his visit to this family-owned bar. Ethan Wurtzel, the owner, knows the significance of that moment and the role Carter played in fostering the craft brewing phenomenon that we enjoy today.

Back in 1978, Carter signed legislation that federally legalized home brewing. At the time, the American beer market was dominated by one style – a light lager sold by big breweries such as Coors and Anheuser-Busch. However, home brewers were able to showcase the appeal of different styles like hoppy IPAs, malty stouts, and citrusy wheat ales. This eventually led to a boom in small breweries across the country. Today, we have over 9,000 small and independent craft breweries. Bob Pease, the head of the Brewers Association, acknowledges Carter’s role, stating, “You could trace that revolution back to Carter.”

Interestingly, Carter never received political credit for this achievement since the craft brewing movement gained momentum long after his presidency. Jonathan Alter, Carter’s biographer, believes that his presidency has been underestimated. While people tend to remember the Iran hostage crisis, inflation, and high-interest rates, they often overlook the plethora of major and minor accomplishments that made our country better.

Now, as Carter’s 99th birthday approaches on October 1st, it’s the perfect time for us, the beer lovers, to raise a glass in his honor. Carter’s grandson, Jason Carter, believes it would be “100% appropriate to toast (his birthday) with a craft beer.” Jason also expresses his belief that his grandfather would be surprised at how far the craft brewing industry has come.

Some might find it surprising that Carter holds a significant place in the hearts of craft brewing and home brewing communities. Many mistakenly view him as a teetotaler due to his devout Christian beliefs and humanitarian work. However, Carter did enjoy drinking, although he disapproved of excessive consumption due to the toll it took on his family. He even refrained from serving hard liquor at some social events at the White House as a cost-saving measure. It is his brother, Billy Carter, who is more well-known in the beer world due to the short-lived Billy Beer he promoted.

Additionally, Carter’s administration was characterized by broad deregulatory efforts, which often go unnoticed due to the current political lenses we use to view him. Jason Carter suggests that people tend to forget about his grandfather’s deregulation efforts because Carter is now seen as a liberal, while deregulation is perceived as a conservative goal. However, Carter understood that not all regulations made sense, as he brought his small-business background into his presidency. For example, he realized that the restrictions on home brewing were remnants of Prohibition and collaborated with homebrewers in California to push for a change. This resulted in legislation that allowed beer to be made for personal and family use without being subject to federal excise tax – a significant milestone in alcohol production.

Homebrewing serves as the foundation and learning ground for most craft brewers today. In fact, for every $1 spent on beer in the U.S., 25% goes to a small and independent craft brewer. The bill signed by Carter truly “opened it up for the little guy,” as Wurtzel proudly acknowledges.

It’s no surprise that homebrewers occasionally pay tribute to Carter in the American Homebrewers Association’s annual competition. Beers like “Jimmy Carter’s Nut Brown Ale” and “Thank You Jimmy Carter” have been among the thousands of entries. Even an Arizona brewery, which began as a hobby amongst friends experimenting with homebrews, now offers a beer called “Jimmy Carter’s Second Term,” a peanut brittle flavored blonde ale.

At the age of 99, Carter is fully aware of the impact of the legislation he signed. While his brother might be more famous in the beer world, Carter remains a hero to many craft beer enthusiasts and home brewers alike. So, as we raise our glasses on October 1st, let’s toast to Jimmy Carter and his immeasurable contribution to the craft brewing industry. Cheers!

Title: Celebrating Jimmy Carter’s Birthday with Craft Beer: A Toast to American Ingenuity

Introduction:

Craft beer enthusiasts and history buffs alike have found a common ground—a reason to raise a glass and toast the ingenuity of American brewers. And interestingly enough, it’s none other than the 39th President of the United States, Jimmy Carter, who’s becoming an unexpected icon in the craft beer revolution. This article delves into the tale of how a former President inadvertently sparked a renewed appreciation for the art of beer-making and why his birthday is the perfect occasion to celebrate this unique connection between history, innovation, and good ol’ American craft beer.

Shifting Perspectives:

Jason Carter, the grandson of President Jimmy Carter, once shared, “But my grandfather certainly is proud of the ingenuity of the American brewers.” These words strike a chord among beer connoisseurs and those curious about the intersection of politics and fermentation. Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter, despite advancing in years, continue to inspire generations with their unwavering love and shared commitment to making a difference in the world. It’s this enduring spirit that resonates deeply, making their journey all the more remarkable.

The Story Unveiled:

As the story goes, it was in the late 1970s, during the Carter administration, that homebrewing was legalized in the United States after a long-standing ban brought on by Prohibition. Amidst concerns of economic recession and a yearning for self-sufficiency, President Carter played a significant role in signing the bill that allowed citizens to brew their own beer legally. Little did he know at the time that this simple act would set in motion a craft beer renaissance that would continue to flourish decades later. This decision brought forth a new wave of innovation, creativity, and passion for beer-making across America.

The American Craft Beer Revolution:

Craft breweries began to spring up nationwide, offering beer lovers a diverse range of flavors, styles, and experiences. These artisans focused on quality over quantity, embracing traditional brewing techniques while experimenting with novel ingredients and brewing processes. And as generations evolved, their shared love for craft beer became deeply intertwined with the cultural fabric of modern America. Independent breweries not only revived forgotten and obscure beer styles but also began to redefine the beer-drinking experience, elevating it to a level of sophistication and appreciation.

Honoring Jimmy Carter’s Birthday:

Given the profound impact of President Carter’s legislation on the brewing landscape, it is only fitting to celebrate his birthday in a manner that encompasses his own spirit of innovation and love for the United States. Brewing a themed craft beer—such as a Carter Cream Ale or Peanut Butter Porter—serves as a tribute to the man who unknowingly kick-started a revolution. Raising a glass of these specially crafted beers on his birthday becomes an act of acknowledging the connection between history, presidential legacy, and a thriving beer industry.

Conclusion:

As we observe Jimmy Carter’s birthday, let us reflect on the unlikely role he played in 1978, paving the way for a craft beer movement that has grown into a multi-billion-dollar industry. It is a testament to the ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit that has always defined America. So, when you reach for that ice-cold craft beer on a warm summer evening, let it be a reminder of the remarkable journey that began with one man’s signature and a nation’s quest for self-reliance. Cheers to President Jimmy Carter, the accidental trailblazer in the vast world of craft beer.