Blue beer may sound like a novelty, but it's actually a real thing. Breweries around the world have been experimenting with different ingredients to create unique and visually striking beers. One such ingredient is spirulina, an algae that is grown and harvested for its vibrant blue color.
Etika Spirulina, a company based in northern France, specializes in cultivating spirulina in large basins. They carefully extract a component called phycocyanin, which is responsible for the blue hue. This phycocyanin is then added to the beer during the brewing process, giving it that distinct blue tint.
One brewery that has embraced blue beer is Labatt Brewing Company. Labatt, known for its wide range of beer brands in Canada, including Labatt Blue, introduced a blue beer variant called Labatt Blue Light. This version was launched in 1983 as a lower alcohol and lower calorie alternative to Labatt Blue.
The use of spirulina in blue beer adds more than just a striking color. Spirulina is known for its nutritional value, as it is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. This makes blue beer an interesting option for those looking for a more health-conscious choice while enjoying a cold brew.
In terms of taste, blue beer can vary depending on the brewing process and the specific beer style. Labatt Blue Light, for example, has a light and refreshing flavor with subtle hints of malt and hops. The addition of spirulina doesn't significantly alter the taste profile, but it does add a slight earthy undertone.
To enhance the overall experience, blue beer can also be garnished with an orange slice. This not only adds a pop of contrasting color but also heightens the citrus aroma and taste, complementing the beer's refreshing qualities.
While blue beer may not be as widely available as traditional beer styles, it offers a unique and visually appealing option for beer enthusiasts and those looking to try something different. Whether it's for a special occasion or just for the novelty factor, blue beer is sure to spark interest and conversation among beer lovers.
So, the next time you come across a blue beer, don't be afraid to give it a try. It's not just about the color, but the combination of flavors and the experience of trying something new. Cheers to the world of innovative and adventurous brewing!
What Is A Blue Beer?
Blue beer is a unique and visually striking beverage that derives its blue hue from a natural ingredient called spirulina. This vibrant blue tint is achieved by adding phycocyanin, a pigment found in spirulina, during the beer brewing process.
To create blue beer, the spirulina algae is cultivated in basins by a company known as Etika Spirulina in northern France. This algae is rich in phycocyanin, which is responsible for its distinct blue color. During the brewing process, the phycocyanin is extracted from the spirulina and added to the beer, resulting in a visually appealing blue shade.
It is important to note that the blue beer is not just a novelty in terms of its color. The addition of spirulina also imparts certain nutritional benefits to the beer. Spirulina is packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, making the blue beer a potentially healthier alternative to traditional brews.
Blue beer is a unique and visually captivating beverage that gets its blue color from the inclusion of spirulina-derived phycocyanin during the brewing process. This algae-based ingredient not only adds a vibrant hue but also brings potential nutritional benefits to the beer.
Who Makes Blue Beer?
Labatt is the company that produces Blue beer. Originally known as Labatt Pilsner, it was rebranded as Labatt Blue in 1968. Labatt is a well-known Canadian brewery that produces a wide range of beer brands, with Blue being one of their most popular offerings. Blue beer has been a flagship product for Labatt since its launch in 1951, and it continues to be a popular choice among beer consumers in Canada. In addition to Labatt Blue, Labatt also produces other well-known beer brands such as Budweiser, which is Canada's top-selling beer brand.
What's The Alcohol Content Of Labatt Blue?
The alcohol content of Labatt Blue is 4% ABV. ABV stands for Alcohol by Volume, which is a standard measure used to indicate the alcohol content in alcoholic beverages. In the case of Labatt Blue, it has an ABV of 4%, meaning that 4% of the total volume of the beverage is pure alcohol.
Labatt Blue Light, on the other hand, has a lower alcohol content, with an ABV of 4%. This makes it a lighter version of Labatt Blue, with less alcohol and fewer calories.
Labatt Blue Light was introduced in 1983 as a lower alcohol, lower calorie alternative to Labatt Blue, which is Canada's most popular brand. Despite its lower alcohol content, Labatt Blue Light still maintains the same great taste and quality that Labatt Blue is known for.
Labatt Brewing Company, based in Toronto, Ontario, is the manufacturer of Labatt Blue and Labatt Blue Light. With a history dating back to 1847, Labatt Brewing Company has become one of the largest and most well-known breweries in Canada. They are committed to producing high-quality, refreshing beverages for beer enthusiasts across the country.
Labatt Blue has an alcohol content of 4% ABV, while Labatt Blue Light has the same alcohol content of 4% ABV but is a lighter version with fewer calories.
Conclusion
Blue beer is a unique and visually stunning beverage that adds a touch of novelty to the traditional beer market. The blue tint in these beers is achieved by adding phycocyanin, a component derived from spirulina algae, during the brewing process. This innovation not only gives the beer a distinct blue color but also offers potential health benefits associated with spirulina, such as its high protein content and antioxidant properties.
Blue beer has gained popularity among beer enthusiasts who appreciate its eye-catching appearance and adventurous flavor profiles. Brands like Blue Moon® Belgian White and Labatt Blue have successfully incorporated the use of spirulina to create a visually appealing and delicious product.
Furthermore, blue beer offers a refreshing and unique drinking experience, often complemented by the addition of garnishes like orange slices to enhance the aroma and taste. This attention to detail in the brewing process showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of the brewers.
While blue beer may not be as widely available as traditional beer varieties, it has carved a niche market for itself, appealing to those seeking new and exciting drinking experiences. Whether enjoyed at special events, parties, or simply as a conversation starter, blue beer adds a touch of novelty and excitement to the beer-drinking culture.
Blue beer offers a delightful combination of visual appeal, unique flavor profiles, and potential health benefits. As the demand for innovative and unconventional beverages continues to grow, it is likely that blue beer will continue to captivate beer enthusiasts and expand its presence in the market. So, if you're looking to step outside the traditional beer offerings, why not give blue beer a try and embark on a vibrant and adventurous drinking experience.
