Why do people buy growlers?
There are several reasons why beer enthusiasts choose to buy growlers. Let's explore some of the main motivations behind this popular trend.
1. Freshness: One of the primary reasons people opt for growlers is the guarantee of fresh beer. Growlers allow you to enjoy beer straight from the tap, preserving its flavor and aroma. By filling a growler at a brewery or brewpub, you can ensure that you're getting the beer at its peak freshness, without any oxidation or degradation that may occur during packaging and transportation.
2. Variety: Craft breweries are known for their diverse and ever-changing selection of beers. By purchasing a growler, you gain access to a wide range of brews that may not be available in bottles or cans. This is particularly true for small, local breweries that often experiment with unique flavors and styles. Growlers enable you to sample limited-edition or seasonal beers that may not be distributed widely.
3. Rarity: Some breweries release limited batches of beer that quickly sell out. In such cases, growlers become a coveted item for beer enthusiasts who want to secure a taste of these exclusive brews. By purchasing a growler, you can be among the fortunate few to enjoy these rare offerings, even if the kegs run dry shortly after release.
4. Support for Local Businesses: Buying growlers directly from breweries is a great way to support local businesses and the craft beer industry. It allows you to establish a personal connection with the brewers and staff, fostering a sense of community. Many beer enthusiasts appreciate the opportunity to meet the people behind their favorite brews and learn about the brewing process firsthand.
5. Sustainability: Growlers are reusable containers that help reduce waste from single-use bottles or cans. By investing in a growler, you contribute to sustainable practices and minimize your environmental impact. Some breweries even offer incentives, such as discounted refills, to encourage customers to bring their own growlers and reduce packaging waste.
6. Cost Savings: While the upfront cost of purchasing a growler may seem higher compared to buying a single bottle or can, in the long run, it can be more cost-effective. Growlers typically hold around 64 ounces of beer, which is equivalent to four pints. If you were to buy four pints of beer individually at a brewpub, it would likely cost more than filling a growler. Therefore, growlers offer a more economical way to enjoy quality craft beer.
7. Convenience: Having a growler at home means you always have access to fresh beer without having to leave your house. This is particularly appealing for those who live far from breweries or have limited access to specialty beer stores. With a growler in your fridge, you can satisfy your beer cravings whenever you desire, without the need to venture out.
People buy growlers for a variety of reasons, including the desire for fresh beer, access to unique and rare brews, support for local breweries, sustainability, cost savings, and the convenience of having beer readily available at home. Growlers offer a unique and immersive beer-drinking experience that cannot be replicated by simply purchasing bottles or cans from the store. So, whether you're a beer aficionado or just someone who appreciates a good brew, investing in a growler can enhance your beer-drinking journey.