As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Miller Genuine Draft (MGD) is not exactly the same as Miller High Life, although they do share some similarities.
Miller Genuine Draft was introduced in 1985 as “Miller High Life Genuine Draft” with the intention of replicating the flavor of High Life from a non-pasteurized keg, but in a can or bottle. While both beers are made from the same recipe, MGD undergoes a different process during production.
One key difference between the two beers is the method of filtration. MGD is cold filtered, whereas Miller High Life is pasteurized. Cold filtration involves passing the beer through a series of filters at near-freezing temperatures to remove any remaining yeast, sediment, and impurities. This process helps to maintain the beer's freshness and flavor, similar to the taste of High Life straight from the keg.
The decision to cold filter MGD instead of pasteurizing it like High Life was made to give consumers a different drinking experience. By avoiding pasteurization, MGD retains more of the beer's natural flavors and aromas, resulting in a crisper, smoother taste. This process also allows MGD to have a longer shelf life than High Life, as it is not subjected to the heat treatment of pasteurization.
In terms of appearance, both MGD and High Life have a similar golden color, although individual batches may vary slightly. The aromas of the two beers are also similar, with subtle notes of malt and hops present. However, the cold filtration process used in MGD may contribute to a cleaner and more pronounced aroma profile compared to High Life.
When it comes to taste, MGD and High Life have distinct differences. MGD is known for its smooth and refreshing character, with a slightly sweeter malt profile and a clean finish. On the other hand, High Life tends to have a more robust flavor, with a slightly bitter hop presence and a fuller-bodied mouthfeel.
Personal experience has shown that people who enjoy the crispness and drinkability of MGD may not necessarily prefer the bolder flavor profile of High Life, and vice versa. It ultimately comes down to individual taste preferences and what one is looking for in a beer.
While Miller Genuine Draft and Miller High Life share the same recipe, they differ in their production process and characteristics. MGD's cold filtration method gives it a distinct flavor profile, offering a smoother and crisper drinking experience compared to High Life's pasteurized version. Both beers have their own merits and cater to different tastes, allowing consumers to choose the one that best suits their preferences.