Is MGD the same as Miller High Life?
Many people wonder if Miller Genuine Draft (MGD) is the same as Miller High Life. The short answer is no, they are not exactly the same, but they do share some similarities.
Miller High Life, often referred to as the “Champagne of Beers,” has been around since 1903. It is known for its crisp and refreshing taste, with a slight sweetness and a hint of hops. MGD, on the other hand, was introduced in 1985 as “Miller High Life Genuine Draft” and was developed to replicate the flavor of High Life from a non-pasteurized keg in a can or bottle.
The main difference between MGD and High Life lies in the production process. While both beers are made from the same recipe, MGD is cold filtered instead of pasteurized. This means that MGD undergoes a special filtration process that removes impurities and gives it a smoother and crisper taste compared to High Life.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste both MGD and High Life side by side. While they do have similar flavor profiles, MGD does seem to have a cleaner and more refined taste. The cold filtering process really does make a difference in terms of the overall drinking experience.
Both MGD and High Life are lagers, which means they are fermented and conditioned at low temperatures. This results in a beer that is light-bodied, with a clean and crisp finish. They also have a similar ABV (alcohol by volume) content, typically around 4.6%.
In terms of appearance, MGD and High Life are quite similar. They both have a golden color with a frothy white head when poured into a glass. The carbonation levels are moderate, adding to the refreshing nature of the beers.
When it comes to aroma, MGD and High Life share some common characteristics. They both have a subtle malty sweetness with a touch of graininess. There is also a hint of hops, although it is more pronounced in High Life compared to MGD.
In terms of popularity, both MGD and High Life have their own loyal fan bases. Some people prefer the smoother and crisper taste of MGD, while others enjoy the classic and slightly sweeter flavor of High Life. It ultimately comes down to personal preference.
To summarize, while MGD and Miller High Life share similarities in terms of flavor profile and appearance, they are not the same beer. MGD is a cold-filtered version of High Life, developed to replicate the flavor of High Life from a non-pasteurized keg. The cold filtering process gives MGD a smoother and crisper taste, making it a popular choice among beer enthusiasts.