Craft Beer 101: What is a Crowler?
No, it’s not a typo. A Crowler is a thing. A magnificent thing. By now, most people have heard of a Growler...we think. For anyone who hasn’t, a Growler is a large bottle of sorts that is used to transport craft beer so that you can enjoy it anywhere! Many even boast a collection of them from far and wide. These beautiful vessels have become a part of today’s craft beer culture and have allowed for a fresh craft beer experience straight from the source.
But, have you ever had a Growler break in your backpack, or gone flat in the fridge? Oh, the horror! That’s where we come in. Introducing: the Crowler.
The Crowler is a 32 oz or 1 L (big boi) can which is treated the same way as a Growler. It’s purchased in the Tasting Room, filled from the taps, and seamed and labelled while you wait. So if it’s essentially the same thing, why are we so excited about it?
Well, oxygen is basically beer’s worst nightmare; over time it causes off-flavors (EWW). Growlers let oxygen both in and out of your beer through tiny gaps, which is why it has a shelf life of 3-5 days before opening. The Crowler on the other hand, can be stored for a couple of weeks! The tight seal allows for a more stable beer and a better shelf life.
This also makes the Crowler the perfect companion for those “off trail” adventures! Throw it in your pack and head out for the day without worrying about spillage or breakage, and when your done, you can easily (and responsibly) dispose of it.
Since it’s a disposable option, you have the freedom of not always lugging around a Growler in case you stumble upon a beer you’d like to take home. So, if you do come face to face with that decision of whether you must buy a new Growler because you forgot yours at home or you have to pass on taking home this weeks specialty, limited edition brew (DON’T DO IT), now you can just grab a Crowler. Ahhh, sweet spontaneity.
Needless to say, we are pretty stoked to be offering these bad boys! Of course, the Growler still has its place in our hearts. And it’ll be our go-to on many occasions. But it’s nice to have options! Come by our Tasting Room today and get any of our beers on tap to go and see for yourself the beauty that is the Crowler.