What Is A Crowler?

A Crowler is a term used to describe a specific type of container used for packaging and transporting draft beer. The word “Crowler” is a combination of “can” and “growler,” signifying its characteristics. A Crowler is essentially a large aluminum can, typically with a volume of 32 ounces or 946 milliliters, although smaller and larger sizes may also be available.

What sets Crowlers apart from traditional cans or growlers is that they are sealed on-site at breweries or specialty beer stores. When a customer selects their preferred draft beer, the Crowler is filled directly from the tap. Once filled, a special machine called a Crowler seamer is used to seal the can, ensuring its freshness and preventing any leakage or carbonation loss.

The benefits of Crowlers are numerous. First, they provide a convenient and portable option for beer enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite craft brews. Crowlers are lightweight, easy to carry, and stackable, making them perfect for outdoor activities, parties, or simply taking beer home from a taproom. Additionally, the airtight seal of a Crowler helps preserve the beer’s flavors, aromas, and carbonation, ensuring a fresh and enjoyable drinking experience.

It’s worth noting that Crowlers are typically intended for single-use, as they are sealed and cannot be resealed like traditional growlers. However, they offer the advantage of being easily recyclable due to their aluminum composition.

What Is A Growler?

A growler is a container designed for carrying and storing draft beer. It is typically a refillable vessel made of glass, ceramic, or stainless steel, and it comes in various sizes, ranging from 32 ounces (946 milliliters) to 128 ounces (3.8 liters) or more.

The name “growler” originates from the sound produced by carbon dioxide escaping from the container when it was originally filled with beer in the late 19th century. Back then, bartenders used galvanized metal pails or covered buckets to transport draught beer, and the escaping gas made a rumbling or growling noise.

Today, growlers are popular among beer enthusiasts for several reasons. Firstly, they allow individuals to bring home their favorite craft beers directly from breweries, brewpubs, or beer filling stations. By using a growler, beer lovers can enjoy fresh draft beer at their convenience. Growlers are often filled straight from the tap, providing a unique and personalized beer-drinking experience.

Furthermore, growlers promote sustainability and reduce waste. Instead of purchasing single-use cans or bottles, beer enthusiasts can reuse their growlers by refilling them at participating breweries or beer retailers. Many establishments offer discounts for refills, making growlers an economical choice for beer lovers.

The choice of material for growlers can vary. Glass growlers are popular for their aesthetic appeal, allowing consumers to see the beer inside and check for clarity or sediment. Ceramic growlers offer insulation properties, helping to maintain the beer’s temperature. Stainless steel growlers are durable, and lightweight, and often come with additional features like insulation and pressure regulation.

Overall, growlers provide a way to transport and enjoy fresh, draft beer from a variety of establishments, providing beer enthusiasts with a convenient and environmentally friendly option for enjoying their favorite brews at home or on the go.

Crowlers Vs. Growlers

When choosing between a Crowler and a growler, there are a few factors to consider. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:

Size and Portability

• Crowlers: Crowlers typically come in a standard size of 32 ounces (946 milliliters), which is ideal for individual consumption or sharing with a friend. They are lightweight, stackable, and easy to carry, making them great for outdoor activities, picnics, or gatherings.
• Growlers: Growlers come in various sizes, ranging from 32 ounces to 128 ounces or more. Larger growlers are suitable for sharing with a group or for extended enjoyment. However, keep in mind that larger growlers can be heavier and less portable compared to Crowlers.

Freshness and Shelf Life

• Crowlers: Crowlers are sealed on-site using a special machine, providing an airtight seal that helps preserve the beer’s freshness, flavors, and carbonation. This sealing process offers a longer shelf life compared to opening a growler multiple times.
• Growlers: While growlers can also provide freshness if consumed promptly, they are not as airtight as Crowlers. Each time you open a growler, the beer is exposed to oxygen, which can lead to flavor degradation and loss of carbonation. It is recommended to consume growler beer within a few days after opening for the best taste experience.

Customizability and Variety

• Crowlers: Crowlers are typically filled and sealed at breweries or specialty beer stores. This means you can choose from a wide range of draft beers on tap, providing you with the opportunity to try different varieties and flavors.
• Growlers: Growlers offer the advantage of being refillable at breweries or beer filling stations. This allows you to have your favorite beer from a specific establishment, supporting local breweries and ensuring a consistent supply of your preferred brew.

Reusability and Environmental Impact

• Crowlers: Crowlers are designed for single-use and are recyclable due to their aluminum composition. They are convenient if you don’t want to worry about cleaning and maintaining a reusable container.
• Growlers: One of the primary benefits of growlers is their reusability. By using a growler, you can reduce waste by refilling the same container multiple times, promoting sustainability and minimizing the environmental impact.

Consider your specific needs, such as intended usage, beer preferences, and convenience, when choosing between a Crowler and a growler. Both options have their unique advantages, so it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and circumstances.