The difference between a growler and a crowler lies in their design and filling process. While both are containers used to transport and store beer, they have distinct characteristics that set them apart.
1. Design:
– Growler: A growler is typically a glass, ceramic, or stainless steel container with a resealable cap or a flip-top lid. It comes in various sizes, commonly ranging from 32 to 64 ounces (although smaller and larger sizes exist).
– Crowler: On the other hand, a crowler is specifically designed as a 32-ounce aluminum can. It resembles a regular beer can and is sealed with a pull-tab lid.
2. Material:
– Growler: Growlers are commonly made of glass, which allows you to see the beer inside, or stainless steel, which offers better insulation and durability. Some growlers may also be made of ceramic, but these are less common.
– Crowler: Crowlers are exclusively made of aluminum, as it provides a lightweight yet sturdy container for the beer. The use of aluminum helps to protect the beer from light and oxygen, ensuring its freshness.
3. Filling Process:
– Growler: When filling a growler, the traditional method involves purging the container with carbon dioxide (CO2) before filling it with beer from a tap. However, this method does not completely remove all the oxygen present in the container, which can affect the beer's flavor and shelf life.
– Crowler: The crowler filling process is more advanced and addresses the oxygen issue found in growlers. It employs a machine that purges the can with CO2, creating an oxygen-free environment before filling it with beer directly from the tap. This process helps to maintain the beer's quality and extend its shelf life.
4. Portability and Convenience:
– Growler: Growlers are often used for taking draft beer home from breweries or bars. They come in different sizes, allowing you to choose the amount of beer you want to transport. However, glass growlers can be heavy and fragile, making them less portable and potentially prone to breakage.
– Crowler: Crowlers provide a more convenient and portable option compared to growlers. The aluminum can is lightweight and easily transportable, making it ideal for outdoor activities, picnics, or events where glass may not be allowed. The pull-tab lid also allows for quick and easy opening, eliminating the need for additional tools.
While both growlers and crowlers serve the purpose of transporting and storing beer, the crowler offers advantages in terms of its design, material, filling process, and portability. The crowler's aluminum construction, oxygen-free filling process, and convenient packaging make it an excellent choice for keeping your favorite beers fresh until you're ready to enjoy them.