What was the first malt liquor?

Answered by Bill Hernandez

The first liquor ever produced and sold as a labeled product was Clix Malt Liquor, introduced by Friars Brewery in 1937. This was a significant milestone in the industry, as it marked the beginning of a new category of .

Friars Brewery, known for its popular Friars Porter and Friars Beer, was a pioneering brewery that constantly pushed the boundaries of brewing innovation. Their foray into malt liquor was yet another example of their commitment to creating unique and distinctive beverages.

Malt liquor, as the name suggests, is a type of beer that is brewed with a higher proportion of malted barley than traditional beers. This results in a beer with a higher content and a richer, maltier flavor profile. Malt liquor is typically top fermented, meaning that it undergoes fermentation at higher temperatures, which imparts unique flavors and characteristics to the beer.

The introduction of Clix Malt Liquor by Friars Brewery was a game-changer in the brewing industry. Prior to this, there were no specific products that were labeled and sold as malt liquor. It was a category that was yet to be established, and Friars Brewery was at the forefront of this movement.

The significance of Clix Malt Liquor cannot be overstated. It not only paved the way for the creation of an entirely new beer category, but it also introduced consumers to a different kind of beer drinking experience. The higher alcohol content and distinct malt flavors made malt liquor a favorite among many beer enthusiasts.

As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring the world of malt liquor firsthand. I have tasted various brands and styles, each offering its own unique characteristics and nuances. From the rich, caramel notes to the smooth, full-bodied mouthfeel, malt liquor truly stands out in the beer world.

Today, malt liquor continues to be a popular choice among beer drinkers, with numerous breweries producing their own versions of this beloved . However, it is important to note that Friars Brewery holds the distinction of being the first to label and sell a malt liquor product, forever leaving their mark on the brewing industry.

Clix Malt Liquor introduced by Friars Brewery in 1937 was the first product ever to be labeled and sold as malt liquor. This marked the beginning of a new category of beer and opened the doors for countless breweries to explore and innovate within this space. The impact of this pioneering beverage continues to be felt in the beer industry to this day.