Although it still makes up less than 10 percent of U.S. beer sales, craft beer has gained in popularity in recent years. Throughout the country, there are over 2,300 small breweries that are making their artisan products out of traditional ingredients such as malt barley. They sell to a loyal cult following and seem to be taking the nation by storm one mug at a time.
TRYING SOMETHING NEW
When you go to a bar and order one of the established brands of beer, you know exactly what you are getting, and it remains consistent over time. By contrast, craft beers are known for their full flavors whether they are India Pale Ales (IPAs), Belgians or seasonal varieties. Unlikely ingredients can then take a prominent position, yielding unconventional but delicious tastes and flavors. Rose, raspberry, coffee bean and pumpkin are just a few of the tastes that an enjoyer of craft beers can experience.
SUPPLY AND DEMAND
The success of craft beers is feeding on itself. As more consumers go out on a limb and sip something new and innovative, they are causing an increased demand for these types of products. Retailers, always with their ear to the ground when it comes to what their customers want, are more than happy to comply. As a result, wholesalers and retailers are augmenting the selection in their refrigerated cases.
THE CHANGING FACE OF RETAIL
As craft beer has gained a foothold in the market, it has established its own selling spaces. Many small breweries now have restaurants or tasting rooms attached where customers can try the selections that are available, decide which they like and make a purchase on the spot. Consequently, beer lovers are now beginning to make artisan beer nights a part of their social calendars.
PORTABILITY
Although there are purists who refuse to taste a beverage that doesn’t come out of either a bottle or a tap, cans definitely have their place. Lighter than bottles, they are much more portable and can be more easily carried. Furthermore, many venues such as golf courses will not allow bottles on the course whereas their less glamorous aluminum cousins are accepted.
READY FOR GIFT-GIVING
Artisan brews are a terrific option for anyone who has a beer lover on their gift list. A quick online search will reveal that there are numerous craft beer of the month clubs… Read the rest