The Shift in Beer Drinkers’ Preferences: Brewing in a New Era

The beer industry has experienced a significant transformation in recent years thanks to a shift in beer drinkers’ preferences. As consumers’ tastes and interests have changed, so has the course of beer brewing. Craft brewers have been quick to adapt, creating new and innovative beer styles to meet the demands of modern beer drinkers. At The Growler Guys, you can always find a wide variety of beers on tap that you’re sure to love regardless of your preferences. Here’s a little about what we’ve observed in the beer industry and why we feel it’s important to carry the best craft beers from your local area.

The Shift in Beer Drinkers’ Preferences

Beer has a complex and evolving history in the United States. Before industry consolidation, small local breweries dotted the country. However, Prohibition in the 1920s decimated the industry, drastically reducing consumption and driving any drinking that did occur behind closed doors. When Prohibition was repealed in 1933, a period of rebirth began, and as alcohol restrictions and regulations were loosened or removed altogether, production volume rapidly increased. Over the 20th century, advancements in technology and infrastructure allowed breweries to scale up their operations, including improvements to the pasteurization process, transportation infrastructure, and packaging engineering. This led to large American brewers like Budweiser succeeding in an untapped market for light-colored, low-ABV beer.

That strategy worked well in the past because consumers tended to look for beers that were consistent in flavor and easy to drink. The most critical factors in selecting a beer were the brand, price, and availability. For many, beer was simply a refreshing drink to enjoy with friends and colleagues, and the specific flavor profile of the beer was less important than the social aspect of drinking.

However, there has been a significant shift in what people look for in a beer in recent years. As people become more health-conscious, they seek out beers that are lower in calories and carbohydrates. At the same time, many beer drinkers are also looking for new and unique flavor profiles that traditional beers may not offer. This has led to an increase in demand for craft beer. Craft beer is made in small batches by independent brewers, and it typically offers a wider variety of flavors and styles than mass-produced beer. Craft brewers can experiment with a wide range of ingredients and brewing techniques to create unique and exciting flavor profiles that cannot be found in traditional mass-produced beers. As more and more people discover craft beer, they become more discerning in their tastes.

The Craft Beer Revolution

As a result, the craft beer industry exploded over the past few decades, characterized by sophistication and specialization. In 1983, there were just 14 craft brewers in the U.S., but by 2020, that number had swelled to 8,884. This “craft beer revolution” is marked by various styles and flavors, moving the market towards “bigger” brews with more flavor and higher alcohol content. Craft brewers have played a significant role in driving the shift in beer drinkers’ preferences and have inspired consumers to try new beers and experiment with their tastes. The craft beer industry has also positively impacted local economies, creating jobs and contributing to the growth of small businesses.

One popular beer style that has emerged in response to this trend is the “session” beer. These beers typically have a lower alcohol content and fewer calories per serving than traditional beers. Session beers are designed to be enjoyed over an extended period, making them perfect for social gatherings or for those who want to enjoy a few drinks without feeling the effects of high alcohol content.

Craft brewers have also experimented with non-traditional ingredients to create unique and exciting flavor profiles. Many brewers have turned to fruits, spices, and even coffee to add depth and complexity. For example, a popular beer style in recent years has been fruit-infused beer. These beers are brewed with natural fruits, such as berries or citrus, which adds a refreshing and fruity twist to the traditional beer taste.

In addition to the desire for unique flavors, beer drinkers also seek options that align with their values. Many craft breweries have responded by incorporating sustainable practices into their brewing process. For example, some breweries use locally sourced ingredients to reduce their carbon footprint, while others donate a portion of their profits to environmental causes.

Overall, the shift in beer drinkers’ preferences has significantly impacted the beer industry. Craft brewers have stepped up to the challenge, creating innovative beer styles catering to modern tastes. The trend toward health consciousness and unique flavor profiles will likely continue. As a result, craft brewers have continued to push the boundaries, experimenting with new ingredients and brewing techniques to create beers that are truly unique and appealing to modern beer drinkers. While this may seem like competition for smaller craft breweries, it has also led to greater awareness and acceptance of craft beer among the general public.

Visit The Growler Guys to Discover New Beers

The shift in beer drinkers’ preferences has profoundly impacted the beer industry, particularly in the realm of craft beer. As people like you seek out new and unique flavors, craft brewers have risen to the challenge, creating new and innovative beer styles that cater to modern tastes. Explore the growing variety of beers in one taproom, The Growler Guys. Each location carries the best local varieties, from the palest ales to the darkest stouts, along with ciders and kombucha. Our friendly staff is happy to walk you through the characteristics of every style to help you discover your personal favorites. Take home the beers you love best in a growler to share with family and friends. View our online tap list to learn about the available selections at a location near you.