Craft Beer Revolution: How Jimmy Carter’s Signature Changed the Brewing Game

At Twain’s Brewpub & Billiards in Decatur, Ga., there is a special photo proudly displayed on the wall – former President Jimmy Carter visiting the family-owned bar. Behind that photo lies a story that many beer enthusiasts, though not many in the general public, know very well – the instrumental role Carter played in fostering the craft brewing phenomenon.

Back in 1978, Carter signed legislation that federally legalized home brewing. At the time, the American beer scene was dominated by a single style – light lagers produced by big breweries like Coors and Anheuser-Busch. However, thanks to home brewers showcasing the appeal of hoppy IPAs, malty stouts, and citrusy wheat ales, the craft beer movement eventually took off, leading to a boom in small breweries. Today, there are over 9,000 small and independent craft breweries across the country.

Bob Pease, the head of the Brewers Association, a national trade organization, credits Carter with starting the craft beer revolution. “You could trace that revolution back to Carter,” he says. However, since the movement gained momentum long after Carter left office, he didn’t receive political credit for it, according to biographer Jonathan Alter. “This is just one example of many where Carter’s presidency has been badly underestimated,” Alter adds. While people tend to remember the Iran hostage crisis, inflation, and high interest rates, they often overlook a string of major and minor accomplishments that made the country better.

Now, as Carter approaches his 99th birthday on October 1st, it’s not too late for beer lovers to raise a glass in his honor. Jason Carter, Jimmy Carter’s grandson, believes it would be 100% appropriate to toast his birthday with a craft beer. “I think he would be surprised at how far it has gone,” says Jason.

The fact that Carter is considered a hero in the craft brewing and home brewing community might surprise some. Incorrectly viewed as a teetotaler, Carter was actually a drinker himself, though he strongly disapproved of excessive drinking due to the toll it took on his family. As a cost-saving measure, he didn’t serve hard liquor at certain social events at the White House. It was his brother Billy, who battled alcoholism, that became known for promoting the short-lived Billy Beer.

Often overshadowed by his reputation as a liberal, Carter’s broad deregulatory efforts get forgotten. Deregulation is commonly associated with conservative goals, but Carter, seen as a liberal by today’s political standards, actively pursued deregulation in areas such as airlines, trucking, and rail. “I think that deregulation piece…the shrinking of the government in that way, is something that people kind of forget about him because of the current way that our partisan sort of politics plays out,” explains Jason Carter.

Carter’s understanding that not all regulations made sense stemmed from his days as a small businessman. This mindset played a pivotal role in his decision to sign legislation that allowed for the production of beer for personal and family use without being subject to federal excise tax. This change, advocated for by a group of homebrewers in California, was significant in the post-Prohibition era, according to the Library of Congress. Homebrewing serves as the foundation for most craft brewers’ journey into the industry.

Today, 25% of every dollar spent on beer in the United States goes to a small and independent craft brewer, thanks to the bill Carter signed that “opened it up for the little guy,” as Ethan Wurtzel from Twain’s Brewpub explains. The impact of the legislation hasn’t gone unnoticed by the homebrewing community. Entries like “Jimmy Carter’s Nut Brown Ale” and “Thank You Jimmy Carter” have become popular in the annual competition run by the American Homebrewers Association. Even an Arizona brewery, which started as a hobby among friends sharing their experimental homebrews, pays homage to Carter with a peanut brittle flavored blonde ale called “Jimmy Carter’s Second Term.”

As we raise a glass to Jimmy Carter’s 99th birthday, it’s only fitting to acknowledge his contribution to the craft beer revolution – a revolution that changed the beer landscape forever and continues to thrive today. And as we celebrate his birthday, let’s also remember the often-unrecognized accomplishments of his presidency that made our country better. Cheers to Jimmy Carter and the craft beer movement he helped ignite!

Title: Celebrating the Craftsmanship of American Brewers, As Told by Jason Carter

Introduction:

When it comes to American beer, my grandfather has always been in awe of the creative genius exhibited by our nation’s brewers. From the earliest days, they have displayed an unparalleled level of ingenuity, crafting beers that have become synonymous with quality and flavor. So, in this blog post, I want to take you on a journey through time, highlighting the fascinating story behind the rise of American brewing and the pride it brings my grandfather.

The Historical Roots of American Brewing:

In the early days of our nation, beer was not widely consumed, as settlers primarily relied on hard cider and spirits. However, the arrival of German immigrants in the 19th century changed the brewing landscape forever. These newcomers brought with them their brewing traditions and techniques, laying the groundwork for what would become an American beer revolution.

The Prohibition Era:

One of the most significant challenges faced by American brewers occurred during the Prohibition era. From 1920 to 1933, the production, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages were strictly prohibited. However, instead of succumbing to defeat, the brewing industry adapted. Many breweries shifted their focus to producing non-alcoholic beverages or even malt extract, ensuring their survival during this difficult time.

The Craft Beer Resurgence:

Fast forward to the late 20th century: a period that witnessed a renewed interest in traditional brewing methods and flavor experimentation. This resurgence marked the birth of the craft beer movement, where small, independent breweries began to flourish across the country. By prioritizing quality over quantity and emphasizing unique flavor profiles, these artisans sought to redefine what beer could be.

The Pride of American Brewers:

Throughout these historical shifts, my grandfather has continued to marvel at the passion and skill displayed by American brewers. Their steadfast commitment to innovation and craftsmanship has elevated the beer scene to new heights, garnering international recognition and praise. From refreshing, easy-drinking lagers to bold, hop-forward IPAs, the diversity and quality found within the American beer landscape is truly impressive.

Conclusion:

American brewers have undoubtedly earned the respect and admiration of my grandfather throughout his lifetime. Their unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of beer-making has resulted in a wide array of exceptional brews that have captured the hearts and taste buds of beer enthusiasts around the world. Each sip is a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of these artisans, and it’s a legacy my grandfather fiercely takes pride in. So, as you raise a glass of your favorite American beer, take a moment to salute the brewers who have made it all possible – their story, as evident in my grandfather’s unwavering pride, is one worth celebrating!