Rolling Rock is an iconic American lager known for its distinctive green glass bottle and painted-on label. It’s a crisp, clean-tasting beer that has been a favorite of many for generations.
But what if you’re looking to branch out and try something new, yet still want something similar to Rolling Rock?
Look no further! In this blog post, we’ll explore five fantastic alternatives to Rolling Rock that you’re sure to enjoy. We’ll dive into the history and brewing methods of each, all while sharing our own personal tasting experiences.
1. Coors Banquet
History and Brewing Method
Coors Banquet, also known as “The Banquet Beer,” has been a staple in American beer culture since its inception in 1873. This classic lager is brewed in Golden, Colorado, by the Coors Brewing Company. The brewery is nestled in the Rocky Mountains, which provides the beer with its famously pure water source. Coors Banquet is brewed with a blend of two-row and specialty malts, along with Coors’ proprietary yeast strain.
Taste Profile
When it comes to beers similar to Rolling Rock, Coors Banquet is a natural choice. It has a light golden color and a slightly sweet, malty aroma. The taste is crisp, clean, and refreshing, with a subtle hint of hops. The mouthfeel is smooth and light, making it an easy-drinking choice for any occasion.
2. Pabst Blue Ribbon
History and Brewing Method
Pabst Blue Ribbon, or PBR, is an American lager with a storied history dating back to 1844. The Pabst Brewing Company, originally based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, now brews this iconic beer in various locations throughout the United States. PBR is brewed with a blend of premium barley malt, corn, and a unique combination of Pacific domestic hops.
Taste Profile
PBR is a crisp, refreshing lager that closely resembles Rolling Rock in taste. The beer has a straw-yellow color and a faintly sweet, grainy aroma. The taste is a pleasing balance of malt and hops, with a light, refreshing finish. PBR’s smooth, easy-drinking nature has made it a fan favorite for generations.
3. Narragansett Lager
History and Brewing Method
Narragansett Lager, affectionately known as ‘Gansett, is a classic American lager with roots dating back to 1890. Once the best-selling beer in New England, Narragansett Brewing Company is now based in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. This pre-Prohibition style lager is brewed with a blend of six-row malt, corn, and hops sourced from Washington’s Yakima Valley.
Taste Profile
‘Gansett is a clean, crisp lager that offers a similar taste experience to Rolling Rock. The beer has a golden color and a mild, malty aroma. The taste is well-balanced, with a subtle sweetness from the malt and a gentle hop bitterness. Narragansett Lager is a refreshing, easy-drinking choice for those who appreciate a classic American lager.
4. Miller High Life
History and Brewing Method
Miller High Life, also known as “The Champagne of Beers,” has been a fixture in the American beer scene since 1903. This iconic lager is brewed by the Miller Brewing Company in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. High Life is brewed using a blend of malted barley, corn syrup, and a mix of Galena and Tahoma hops to create its distinctive taste.
Taste Profile
Miller High Life is a light, refreshing beer that shares a similar flavor profile with Rolling Rock. It has a pale golden color and a sweet, grainy aroma. The taste is crisp and clean, with a hint of hops and a smooth, easy-drinking finish. This classic American lager is a fantastic alternative for Rolling Rock fans.
5. Yuengling Traditional Lager
History and Brewing Method
Yuengling Traditional Lager is a true American classic, brewed by America’s oldest brewery, D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc., in Pottsville, Pennsylvania. Established in 1829, the brewery has been family-owned and operated for six generations. This amber lager is brewed with a blend of roasted caramel malt and a combination of Cluster and Cascade hops.
Taste Profile
While Yuengling Traditional Lager has a slightly darker color than Rolling Rock, it still offers a similar, refreshing taste experience. The beer has a rich amber color and a malty, slightly sweet aroma. The taste is smooth, with a hint of caramel and a light hop bitterness. Yuengling Traditional Lager is an excellent choice for those looking to branch out from Rolling Rock while still enjoying a classic American lager.
In Conclusion
Each of these five beers – Coors Banquet, Pabst Blue Ribbon, Narragansett Lager, Miller High Life, and Yuengling Traditional Lager – offers a taste experience that is similar to Rolling Rock, while still providing their own unique characteristics. Whether you’re a lifelong Rolling Rock fan looking to try something new or simply a lover of classic American lagers, any of these alternatives is sure to please.
Of these five alternatives, my personal recommendation would be Narragansett Lager – it’s a refreshing, easy-drinking choice that pays homage to the classic American lager style. Give it a try and see for yourself!
FAQs
What is similar to Rolling Rock?
Similar to Rolling Rock, there are several light lagers available in the market that offer a crisp and refreshing taste. Some popular alternatives include Budweiser, Coors Light, Miller Lite, and Corona Extra. These beers share similar characteristics of being light-bodied, mildly hoppy, and easy to drink.
Why can’t I find Rolling Rock in bottles?
Rolling Rock beer is primarily available in cans rather than bottles. The brand has chosen to focus on can production, likely due to factors such as cost, convenience, and market demand. While it may be possible to find limited quantities of Rolling Rock in bottles, the brand’s emphasis on cans is a deliberate choice made by the company.
Is Rolling Rock an ale or lager?
Rolling Rock is a lager.
What style of beer is Busch?
Busch is a light lager style of beer.
Is Busch Light a pilsner?
Yes, Busch Light is classified as a pilsner-style beer. It is a light lager that shares characteristics with traditional pilsners, such as a pale golden color, light body, and crisp taste.
What style of beer is Rolling Rock?
Rolling Rock is classified as an American Pale Lager. It is a light-bodied beer with a mild hop bitterness and a crisp, clean finish.
