A growler is an essential vessel for beer enthusiasts who want to enjoy fresh, craft beer from their favorite breweries. It is essentially a container, typically made of glass, that allows you to transport and store beer in an airtight manner. The name “growler” is believed to have originated in the late 19th century, when people would carry beer home in a metal pail with a lid that would make a rumbling or growling sound as the carbonation escaped.
The most common sizes of growlers are 32 ounces (sometimes referred to as a “howler”) and 64 ounces, though other sizes can also be found. These sizes are perfect for individuals or small groups who want to enjoy a few pints of beer without having to consume it all in one sitting. Personally, I find the 64-ounce growler to be the ideal size for sharing with friends or for enjoying over the course of a weekend.
One of the great things about growlers is that they allow you to bring home fresh beer directly from the brewery. Many breweries have taps specifically for filling growlers, ensuring that you get the beer at its peak freshness and flavor. This is especially important for beers that are not widely distributed or have limited availability. I have had the pleasure of visiting several breweries and filling my growler with unique and limited-release beers that I would not have been able to enjoy otherwise.
To use a growler, you simply take it to a brewery or any establishment that offers growler fills. The staff will sanitize the growler to ensure cleanliness, and then fill it directly from the tap. It's important to note that some breweries may have restrictions on what types of beer can be filled in growlers. For example, some high-alcohol or barrel-aged beers may not be available for growler fills due to their limited quantities or special aging requirements.
Once your growler is filled, it's crucial to keep it refrigerated to maintain the beer's freshness and carbonation. I always make sure to consume the beer within a few days of filling the growler, as the quality can deteriorate over time. It's also important to note that once you open a growler, the carbonation will begin to escape, so it's best to finish the beer within a day or two for optimal taste.
In addition to being a convenient way to enjoy fresh beer at home, growlers also contribute to sustainability efforts. By filling a growler with beer, you eliminate the need for single-use bottles or cans, reducing waste and environmental impact. I appreciate the eco-friendly aspect of using a growler, as it aligns with my goal of living a more sustainable lifestyle.
A growler is a fantastic tool for beer lovers who want to enjoy fresh, craft beer from their favorite breweries. It allows you to bring home unique and limited-release beers, share them with friends, and contribute to sustainability efforts. So, next time you visit a brewery, consider getting a growler fill and experience the joy of enjoying a fresh pint of beer in the comfort of your own home.