What’s a Growler of Beer? The Perfect Way to Share Craft Brew
A growler of beer is a reusable jug, typically glass or stainless steel, used to transport fresh draught beer from a brewery or taproom. It allows you to enjoy your favorite craft beers at home, keeping them relatively fresh for a limited time.
A Brief History of the Growler
The term “growler” has a history almost as rich as the beer it carries. Its origins are debated, but one popular theory traces it back to the late 19th century when beer was carried home from saloons in galvanized pails. The sound of the CO2 escaping from these pails as the beer sloshed around is said to have resembled a growl, hence the name. Modern growlers are a far cry from those pails, designed to maintain the beer’s quality and carbonation for a much longer period.
Why Choose a Growler? The Benefits
Growlers offer several advantages for beer enthusiasts:
- Freshness: Enjoy draught beer at home, as fresh as if you were at the brewery.
- Variety: Access beers that may not be available in bottles or cans.
- Sustainability: Reduce waste by reusing the growler instead of single-use containers.
- Cost-effectiveness: Often cheaper per ounce than purchasing individual bottles or cans.
- Community: Support local breweries and taprooms.
Growler Materials: Glass vs. Stainless Steel
Growlers are primarily made from two materials: glass and stainless steel. Each has its own set of pros and cons:
| Feature | Glass Growler | Stainless Steel Growler |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Durability | More fragile, prone to breaking | More durable, resistant to damage |
| Light Protection | None, beer can become skunked if exposed to light | Excellent, beer protected from light exposure |
| Insulation | Poor, beer warms up quickly | Some models are insulated, keeping beer cold longer |
| Cleaning | Easy to clean | Easy to clean, but check for specific care instructions |
| Portability | Heavy | Typically lighter |
The Growler Filling Process: From Tap to Jug
Filling a growler properly is essential for maintaining the beer’s quality. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
- Purge the growler: Some breweries use a counter-pressure filling system to purge the growler of oxygen with CO2. This significantly extends the beer’s shelf life.
- Fill slowly: The growler should be filled from the bottom up to minimize foaming.
- Cap tightly: The cap must create a tight seal to prevent CO2 from escaping and oxygen from entering.
- Leave headspace: A small amount of headspace (air at the top) is necessary to allow for expansion due to temperature changes. Overfilling can lead to excessive pressure and potential leaks.
- Label and date: The brewery should label the growler with the beer type, filling date, and any specific storage instructions.
Common Growler Mistakes to Avoid
Making a few key mistakes can drastically reduce the lifespan and quality of your growler beer:
- Not cleaning the growler properly: Residual beer can spoil and contaminate future fills.
- Leaving the growler in direct sunlight: This can cause the beer to become skunked.
- Storing the growler improperly: Store upright to maintain the seal and minimize beer-to-air contact.
- Waiting too long to drink: Growler beer has a limited shelf life, so consume it as soon as possible for optimal freshness.
- Not tightening the cap securely: Loose caps allow CO2 to escape and oxygen to enter.
Cleaning and Caring for Your Growler
Proper cleaning is vital to keep your growler in top condition. Rinse it immediately after emptying with hot water. For a deeper clean, use a non-abrasive brush and a mild detergent. Avoid using soap with fragrances that can linger and affect the taste of future fills. Always allow the growler to air dry completely before sealing it up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the standard size of a growler?
The most common size for a growler is 64 ounces (half-gallon or 1.89 liters). You can also find smaller sizes, such as 32-ounce growlers (sometimes called “growlettes” or “howlers”), which are perfect for single servings or sampling different beers.
How long will my beer stay fresh in a growler?
Unopened, a properly filled growler will generally keep beer fresh for 1-3 days. Using a CO2 purging system during filling can extend that freshness to 5-7 days. Once opened, it’s best to consume the beer within 24 hours to enjoy its optimal flavor and carbonation.
Can I fill my growler with any beer?
Generally, yes, you can fill your growler with any draught beer offered at a brewery or taproom that allows growler fills. However, some breweries may have restrictions on specific beers or limited-release brews. It’s always best to check with the establishment beforehand.
Are there any legal restrictions on growler fills?
State and local laws regarding growler fills vary. Some jurisdictions have specific regulations about where growlers can be filled, the types of beers allowed, and the labeling requirements. Always familiarize yourself with the laws in your area.
What is a crowler?
A crowler is a 32-ounce can that is filled and sealed at a brewery or taproom, offering a single-use alternative to a growler. Crowlers offer superior light and oxygen protection compared to growlers and can keep beer fresh for longer.
Can I use any growler at any brewery?
While most breweries are happy to fill any clean growler, some may have branded growlers that they prefer to fill or require due to inventory management. Always check with the brewery’s policy before assuming your growler will be accepted.
How do I know if my growler is properly sealed?
A properly sealed growler will have a tight cap that prevents any leaks or hissing sounds. If you can easily unscrew the cap, or if you notice any beer leaking, the seal is compromised. Recap the growler tightly or contact the brewery if you have concerns.
What should I do if my growler beer goes flat?
Unfortunately, once a growler of beer goes flat, there’s not much you can do to restore its carbonation. The best way to prevent this is to consume the beer promptly after filling and to ensure a proper seal. You could try making beer bread or cooking with it.
Are there growler fill alternatives that keep beer fresh longer?
Yes, several alternatives exist for keeping beer fresh for extended periods, including counter-pressure growler filling systems, which purge the growler with CO2 before filling. Also, consider using crowlers that have an airtight seal in aluminum cans.
What is the best way to transport a full growler?
Always transport your growler upright to minimize agitation and potential leaks. Some growlers have handles that make carrying easier. Consider using a padded carrier or securing the growler in your car to prevent it from tipping over during transport.
Can I use my dishwasher to clean my growler?
Avoid using the dishwasher to clean your growler, especially if it’s glass. The high heat and harsh detergents can damage the growler and affect the taste of future fills. Hand washing with mild soap and hot water is the best approach.
How much does it typically cost to fill a growler?
The cost to fill a growler varies depending on the brewery, the type of beer, and the size of the growler. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $30 for a 64-ounce growler fill. Keep an eye out for growler fill specials or discounts offered by local breweries.