A howler beer is a 32-ounce container used for transporting draft beer, typically filled at a brewery or taproom.It is the smaller sibling to the more commonly known growler, which holds 64 ounces. As an expert brewer with a passion for all things beer, I have had the pleasure of tasting many different howler beers and experiencing the unique characteristics they bring to the table. In this blog post, I will share my personal experience with howler beers and dive into the details of what makes them special. So, without further ado, let’s get into it!
The Origins of Howler Beers
The howler, like its larger counterpart, the growler, has its roots in the late 1800s and early 1900s when beer lovers would transport their favorite brews from the local watering hole back to their homes in metal pails. Fast forward to the craft beer boom of the 21st century, and howlers have become an increasingly popular option for bringing home fresh, draft beer from local breweries and taprooms.
Howler vs. Growler: What’s the Difference?
The primary difference between a howler and a growler is the size. Howlers hold 32 ounces of beer, while growlers hold 64 ounces. This smaller size makes howlers more convenient for those who want to sample a variety of beers or don’t want to commit to a full 64 ounces of one brew. Additionally, howlers are a better choice for those who cannot consume a full growler before the beer goes flat or stale.
The Anatomy of a Howler
Howler beer containers are typically made of glass, stainless steel, or ceramic. Glass is the most common material, as it is both economical and allows for a clear view of the beer inside. Stainless steel and ceramic howlers are more expensive, but offer better insulation and protection from light, which can negatively impact the beer’s taste.
The howler’s lid is equally important, as it provides an airtight seal to keep the beer fresh. Most howlers have a screw-on cap with a rubber or silicone gasket to create a tight seal. Some stainless steel howlers even feature a flip-top design with a locking mechanism for added security.
The Benefits of Using a Howler
There are several reasons why beer enthusiasts might choose a howler over a traditional growler:
1.Portability:The smaller size of a howler makes it easier to transport, whether you’re bringing it to a party, picnic, or simply enjoying a beer in your backyard.
2.Variety:Howlers allow you to sample multiple beers from a brewery or taproom without the commitment of a full growler.
3.Freshness:With a smaller volume, it’s more likely that you’ll finish the beer before it goes flat or stale, ensuring that you’re always enjoying the freshest brew possible.
4.Sustainability:By refilling a howler, you’re reducing waste from disposable bottles and cans.
My Personal Experience with Howler Beers
I’ve had the pleasure of trying many howler beers from various breweries and taprooms, and I must say, there’s just something special about enjoying a fresh draft beer at home. The aroma, appearance, and taste of howler beers can be vastly different from their bottled or canned counterparts.
–Smell:The aroma of a howler beer is often more vibrant and pronounced. The freshness of the beer allows the hops, malt, and other ingredients to truly shine.
–Looks:The appearance of a beer in a howler can be striking, with lively carbonation and a more substantial head than you might find in a bottled beer.
–Taste:The brewing process often results in subtle nuances in flavor that can be lost in the bottling process. Drinking beer from a howler allows you to experience these nuances and truly appreciate the art of brewing.
Caring for Your Howler
Proper care of your howler is essential to ensure the freshness and quality of your beer. After each use, clean your howler with warm, soapy water and let it air dry completely. Always store your howler with the cap off to prevent any trapped moisture from causing mold or mildew. Finally, when filling your howler, ask the brewery or taproom staff to purge the container with CO2 before filling. This will help prevent oxidation and keep your beer fresher for longer.
# Conclusion
In summary, a howler beer is a 32-ounce container used for transporting draft beer, offering beer lovers a more portable and versatile option for enjoying their favorite brews. Here are 5 to 10 facts about howler beers to remember:
1. Howlers hold 32 ounces of beer, while growlers hold 64 ounces.
2. They are typically made of glass, stainless steel, or ceramic.
3. Howlers offer better portability and variety compared to growlers.
4. They can help maintain the freshness of your beer.
5. Proper care and cleaning are essential for preserving beer quality in a howler.
6. The aroma, appearance, and taste of howler beers can be different from bottled or canned beer.
7. Always store your howler with the cap off to prevent mold or mildew.
So, next time you visit your local brewery or taproom, why not give a howler beer a try? You might just discover a new favorite way to enjoy the freshest brews. Cheers!
FAQs
How many beers are in a growler?
A growler typically holds 64 fluid ounces, which is equivalent to approximately 4 pints or 8 12-ounce servings of beer. However, there are also smaller growler sizes like the 32-ounce growler, which holds around 2 pints or 4 12-ounce servings of beer.
How long will a growler of beer last?
A growler of beer will typically last for 7-10 days if unopened and properly sealed, stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it is best to consume the beer within 24-48 hours, as the carbonation and freshness will start to decrease significantly after that time.
How many 12 ounce beers are in a growler?
A standard growler holds 64 ounces of beer. To determine how many 12-ounce beers are in a growler, you would divide 64 by 12. This results in approximately 5.33 beers. So, a growler holds a little over five 12-ounce beers.
What is the difference between Crowler and Howler?
A Crowler and a Howler are both types of beer containers used for transporting draft beer from breweries or taprooms. The primary difference between the two lies in their size and material.
A Crowler is a 32-ounce (946 ml) aluminum can that is filled with draft beer and then sealed using a specialized canning machine. The aluminum can helps prevent light and air from affecting the beer, ensuring freshness for an extended period.
On the other hand, a Howler, also known as a half-growler, is a 32-ounce (946 ml) glass container with a screw cap or flip-top closure. It serves the same purpose as a Crowler but is reusable and requires proper cleaning and sanitization between uses.
In summary, the main differences between a Crowler and a Howler are their materials (aluminum can vs. glass container) and reusability (single-use vs. reusable). Both are designed to hold and transport draft beer while maintaining its quality and freshness.
What’s the difference between a crowler and a growler?
A crowler and a growler are both containers used for transporting draft beer, but they differ in material, size, and reusability. A growler is a reusable glass, ceramic, or stainless steel jug, typically holding 64 ounces (1.89 liters) of beer, while a crowler is a single-use, large aluminum can, usually 32 ounces (0.95 liters). Growlers are filled and sealed manually, whereas crowlers are machine-sealed for a tighter seal and longer shelf life.
