Bottling beer in a growler is not recommended for several reasons. Firstly, the design and materials of a growler are not specifically intended for long-term storage and carbonation. Growlers are typically made of glass or stainless steel, and while they may be great for transporting beer from a brewery to your home, they are not designed to withstand the pressure that builds up during the carbonation process.
One of the main issues with using a growler for bottling beer is the lid. Growler lids are often not airtight and may not provide a sufficient seal to keep the CO2 in. This can lead to carbonation loss and flat beer. Additionally, the lids of some growlers may not be able to withstand the pressure of carbonation, which could result in leaks or even explosions if the pressure builds up too high.
Another important factor to consider is the size and shape of a growler. Growlers typically hold around 64 ounces of liquid, which is quite a large volume for a single bottle of beer. This can be problematic if you want to enjoy your beer in smaller portions or share it with friends. Bottling in smaller, standard-sized beer bottles allows for better portion control and makes it easier to share your homebrew with others.
Furthermore, when it comes to storing beer, consistency is key. Using standard beer bottles allows for uniform carbonation levels and easier aging and cellaring. With growlers, the varying sizes and shapes can make it more difficult to achieve consistent carbonation throughout the batch.
Lastly, if you plan on aging your beer for an extended period, growlers may not be the best option. The larger surface area of the beer exposed to oxygen can lead to quicker oxidation, potentially resulting in off-flavors or spoilage. Standard beer bottles are designed to minimize oxygen contact and provide a more stable environment for aging.
While growlers are a convenient vessel for transporting beer, they are not suitable for long-term storage and carbonation. It is advisable to use standard beer bottles specifically designed for bottling and conditioning beer. This will help ensure consistent carbonation, better portion control, and a more stable aging process.