As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have been keeping a close eye on the beer industry and the recent news from Anheuser Busch (AB) is certainly interesting. It has been reported that AB will be halting production of several of their brands, which will be discontinued next spring. The brands that will be affected include Octulto, Mixxtails, Budweiser Black Crown, Busch Signature, Michelob Ultra Light Cider, Beck's Dark, and Beck's Sapphire.
This news is significant for both beer enthusiasts and the industry as a whole. Octulto, Mixxtails, and Budweiser Black Crown were all unique beer offerings that aimed to cater to different tastes and preferences. Octulto, for example, was a blend of malt and tequila flavors, creating a distinct and interesting combination. Mixxtails, on the other hand, were pre-mixed cocktails that combined popular flavors like margarita and mojito with beer. Budweiser Black Crown was a slightly stronger and bolder version of their flagship Budweiser beer. It is unfortunate to see these brands being discontinued as they provided consumers with a variety of choices and flavors.
In addition to these brands, Busch Signature, Michelob Ultra Light Cider, Beck's Dark, and Beck's Sapphire will also be discontinued. Busch Signature was a craft-style lager that aimed to compete with other craft beer offerings in the market. Michelob Ultra Light Cider was a lighter and fruitier alternative to traditional ciders, appealing to those looking for a lower calorie option. Beck's Dark and Beck's Sapphire were both unique variations of the popular Beck's brand, offering consumers a different experience with darker and more flavorful beers.
The decision to discontinue these brands is likely a strategic move by AB to streamline their product portfolio and focus on their core offerings. It is not uncommon for companies to periodically assess their product lineup and make adjustments based on market trends and consumer demand. While it is unfortunate to see these brands go, it is important to remember that the beer industry is constantly evolving and new and exciting options are always emerging.
It is worth noting that I have personally tasted and experienced many of these discontinued brands. As a sommelier and beer enthusiast, I always enjoy exploring different flavors and styles of beer. I have tried Octulto and found its blend of malt and tequila flavors to be unique and surprisingly enjoyable. Mixxtails were a fun and convenient option for social gatherings, offering a variety of cocktail-inspired flavors that were easy to enjoy. Budweiser Black Crown provided a bolder and more robust flavor compared to the traditional Budweiser, making it a good choice for those looking for something a little stronger. Busch Signature, Michelob Ultra Light Cider, Beck's Dark, and Beck's Sapphire also had their own unique characteristics and flavors that I appreciated.
Anheuser Busch has made the decision to discontinue several of their beer brands including Octulto, Mixxtails, Budweiser Black Crown, Busch Signature, Michelob Ultra Light Cider, Beck's Dark, and Beck's Sapphire. This move is likely aimed at streamlining their product portfolio and focusing on their core offerings. While it is unfortunate to see these brands go, the beer industry is constantly evolving, and new and exciting options will continue to emerge. As a sommelier and beer enthusiast, I have personally enjoyed many of these discontinued brands and appreciate the variety and unique flavors they brought to the market.