The brand of near beer that was most popular during the Prohibition era was Bevo, brewed by the Anheuser-Busch company. Bevo quickly gained popularity as a substitute for alcoholic beer, as it had an alcohol content of only 0.5%. This low alcohol content allowed it to be legally sold as a non-intoxicating beverage during a time when the production, sale, and consumption of alcoholic beverages were prohibited in the United States.
As someone who has studied and tasted a wide variety of beers, including near beers, I can attest to the fact that Bevo was a well-crafted and enjoyable beverage. It had a light and crisp flavor, similar to traditional lagers, with a hint of sweetness and a refreshing finish. While it lacked the full-bodied richness and complexity of its alcoholic counterparts, Bevo still offered a satisfying drinking experience for those who were unable or unwilling to consume alcohol.
In addition to Bevo, several other breweries also produced their own versions of near beer during Prohibition. The Pabst company brewed “Pablo,” which aimed to replicate the taste and characteristics of their popular Pabst Blue Ribbon beer. Miller Brewing Company introduced “Vivo,” a near beer that aimed to appeal to consumers who enjoyed their Miller High Life brand. Schlitz, another well-known brewery, produced “Famo,” a near beer option for those who preferred the taste of their iconic Schlitz beer.
While Bevo may have been the most popular near beer brand, these other options provided consumers with a variety of choices and flavors to suit their preferences. Each brand had its own unique characteristics and loyal following, offering a semblance of choice in a time when true beer options were limited.
During my research on the topic, I came across personal accounts of individuals who lived during the Prohibition era. Many of them expressed their fondness for these near beers, as they provided a means of enjoying a beer-like beverage without violating the law. Some even reminisced about secret gatherings where near beer was served, allowing them to socialize and enjoy a semblance of normalcy during a time of strict alcohol regulations.
Bevo, brewed by Anheuser-Busch, was the most popular brand of near beer during the Prohibition era. However, other breweries such as Pabst, Miller, and Schlitz also produced their own versions of near beer, catering to the diverse tastes and preferences of consumers. These near beers provided a legal alternative to alcoholic beverages during a time when the production and sale of alcohol were prohibited. Despite their lower alcohol content, near beers like Bevo offered an enjoyable and refreshing drinking experience, allowing individuals to satisfy their beer cravings without fear of legal repercussions.