Can You Bottle Beer in Growlers?

As a beer enthusiast, you may have come across the term “growler” before. Growlers are a popular way of transporting beer from the brewery to your home or a party. However, can you bottle beer in growlers? In this article, we will explore the answer to this question and provide you with some insights into the world of growlers and beer.

Yes, it is possible to bottle beer in growlers. Growlers are typically used as containers for transporting draft beer from a brewery or bar to someone’s home. However, with the right equipment and technique, it is possible to sanitize and seal a growler for long-term storage of beer. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of bottling beer in growlers and provide some tips for doing it successfully.

The Basics of Growlers

What is a Growler?

A growler is a container used for storing and transporting beer. It is typically made of glass, ceramic, or stainless steel and can hold anywhere from 32 ounces to 128 ounces of beer. Growlers are sealed with a screw-on or flip-top lid to keep the beer fresh and prevent it from spilling.

Why Use a Growler?

Growlers are a popular way of transporting beer because they allow you to enjoy fresh draft beer from your favorite brewery in the comfort of your own home. They are also eco-friendly as they eliminate the need for single-use bottles or cans.

Types of Growlers

There are two main types of growlers: screw-top and flip-top. Screw-top growlers are sealed with a screw-on lid, while flip-top growlers are sealed with a hinged lid that is secured with a wire bail.

The Process of Bottling Beer in Growlers

Is it Possible to Bottle Beer in Growlers?

Yes, it is possible to bottle beer in growlers. In fact, many breweries offer growlers as a way of transporting their beer. However, it is important to note that not all beer is suitable for growler filling.

Types of Beer Suitable for Growler Filling

Beers that are low in carbonation, such as stouts and porters, are ideal for growler filling. These beers do not foam as much when poured, making them easier to transport. Beers that are highly carbonated, such as IPAs and wheat beers, are not recommended for growler filling as they can become over-carbonated and lose their flavor.

The Bottling Process

When bottling beer in a growler, it is important to start with a clean, sanitized container. The beer is then filled from a tap or a bottle filler, leaving a small amount of headspace at the top of the growler. The lid is then screwed or flipped on tightly to prevent air from entering the container.

Tips for Bottling Beer in Growlers

Store in a Cool Place

After bottling beer in a growler, it is important to store it in a cool place away from direct sunlight. This will help to preserve the flavor and prevent the beer from spoiling.

Drink Fresh

Growlers are best consumed within a few days of filling. Unlike canned or bottled beer, growlers do not have a long shelf life and can lose their flavor quickly.

Don’t Shake the Growler

Shaking the growler can cause the beer to become over-carbonated and lose its flavor. It is important to handle the growler gently and avoid shaking it.

Clean and Sanitize the Growler

Before filling a growler, it is important to clean and sanitize it to prevent contamination. Growlers should be washed with hot, soapy water and rinsed thoroughly before being sanitized with a solution of water and a food-grade sanitizer. The growler should be allowed to air dry before filling.

Consider the Size of the Growler

When selecting a growler, it is important to consider the size and the amount of beer that will be consumed. A smaller growler may be more suitable for a single person or a small gathering, while a larger growler may be better for a party or a group of people. It is also important to consider the weight of the growler when filled with beer, as it can be heavy and difficult to transport.

FAQs – Can you bottle beer in growlers?

A growler is a container used for transporting beer. It is typically a glass, ceramic or stainless steel bottle with a capacity of 32 to 64 ounces. The term “growler” comes from the sound made by the carbon dioxide escaping from the container. Growlers are popular for purchasing craft beer from breweries because they provide beer enthusiasts with fresh beer in a convenient and portable package.

Can you use a growler to bottle beer?

Yes, you can use a growler to bottle beer. This can be particularly useful if you’ve brewed beer yourself or if you’ve purchased beer in bulk from a brewery and want to store it for later use. It is important to ensure that the growler is clean and sanitized before you use it to bottle your beer. You can also use specialized growler fillers that allow you to bottle your beer using CO2, which will help preserve its freshness.

How do you clean a growler before bottling beer?

To clean a growler before bottling beer, wash it with hot, soapy water and rinse it thoroughly. You can use a brush to scrub the inside of the growler to remove any residue or debris. Make sure you rinse the growler well and let it air-dry completely before you use it to bottle your beer. You can also sanitize the growler with a solution of water and a sanitizer like Star San or iodophor before you fill it with your beer.

How long will beer stay fresh in a growler?

The length of time beer will stay fresh in a growler depends on a number of factors, including the type of beer, the brewing process, and the conditions under which the beer is stored. Generally speaking, beer stored in a growler will stay fresh for up to a week, but this can vary depending on the beer and the conditions. If you want to maximize the freshness of your beer, it’s best to store it in a cool, dark place and consume it within a couple of days.

Can you carbonate beer in a growler?

Yes, you can carbonate beer in a growler. You can use a CO2 system to carbonate your beer directly in the growler. To do this, add priming sugar to your beer before you bottle it and then add CO2 to the growler to carbonate the beer. You can also use a carbonation cap system to carbonate your beer after it has been bottled in a growler. Carbonating your beer can give it a crisp, refreshing effervescence that makes it more enjoyable to drink.