If you’ve ever visited a brewery or craft beer bar, you might have noticed a curious container called a growler. Maybe you’ve wondered, How big is a growler of beer? or How many beers can I get from one? Whether you’re a seasoned beer lover or just getting into craft brews, understanding growler sizes can help you make the best choice for your next beer adventure.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about growlers, their sizes, and how much beer they actually hold.
What Is a Growler?
A growler is a reusable container designed to transport draft beer. Traditionally made from glass, but also available in stainless steel or ceramic, growlers allow you to take fresh beer home directly from the tap. They’re a popular choice among craft beer enthusiasts because they keep beer fresh and carbonated for a short time, making them perfect for sharing or savoring at home.
The word “growler” dates back to the late 19th century, supposedly named after the growling sound carbon dioxide made escaping from the lid as beer sloshed around inside the jug.
Common Growler Sizes
Growlers come in a few standard sizes, each suited for different drinking needs and occasions. Here are the most common:
– 64 ounces (half-gallon): This is the classic and most popular growler size. It holds about 64 US fluid ounces, which is roughly equivalent to five and a third standard 12-ounce beers. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying over a couple of days.
– 32 ounces (quart): Sometimes called a “howler” (short for half growler), this size is ideal for solo drinkers or small tastings. It holds about 32 ounces, or roughly two and two-thirds beers.
– 128 ounces (one gallon): For bigger gatherings or parties, a gallon growler is available, holding about 128 ounces or almost eleven beers. These are less common but great for larger groups.
– Other sizes: You may also find growlers in 1-liter (approximately 33.8 ounces) and 2-liter sizes, as well as specialty sizes like 40 ounces or custom jugs. These offer flexibility depending on your needs.
How Many Beers Are in a Growler?
The standard serving size for beer in the US is 12 ounces. To figure out how many beers a growler holds, simply divide the growler’s capacity by 12.
| Growler Size | Fluid Ounces | Approximate Number of 12 oz Beers |
|---|---|---|
| 32 oz | 32 | 2.67 |
| 64 oz | 64 | 5.33 |
| 128 oz | 128 | 10.67 |
So, a 64-ounce growler gives you enough beer for about five standard pints, making it perfect for sharing with a few friends or enjoying over a couple of days.
Why Choose a Growler?
Growlers offer several benefits that make them a favorite among craft beer lovers:
– Freshness: They keep draft beer fresh longer than bottles or cans once filled at the brewery.
– Cost-effective: Buying beer in growlers is often cheaper than purchasing multiple bottles or cans.
– Environmentally friendly: Growlers are reusable, reducing waste and your carbon footprint.
– Variety: You can take home beers that aren’t available in bottles or cans, including seasonal or limited releases.
– Social: Great for sharing at gatherings or introducing friends to new brews.
Types of Growlers
Growlers come in different materials and styles:
– Glass growlers: The most traditional, often amber-colored to protect beer from UV light, which can spoil flavor. Clear glass growlers are also available but may cost less and offer less protection.
– Stainless steel growlers: Durable and often insulated to keep beer cold longer.
– Ceramic growlers: Less common but provide good insulation and a unique look.
Growler Lids and Seals
Most growlers have either a screw-cap or a flip-top (swing-top) lid. Screw caps are more common and affordable, while flip-tops offer a classic look and are often preferred by brewers for their aesthetic appeal. Both types aim to keep the beer fresh and carbonated after filling.
Tips for Using Growlers
– Drink fresh: Once opened, it’s best to consume the beer within a day or two to enjoy optimal flavor and carbonation.
– Keep cold: Store filled growlers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
– Clean thoroughly: Always clean your growler well before refilling to avoid off-flavors.
– Refill programs: Many breweries offer discounts or incentives if you bring your growler back for refills, making it a budget-friendly option.
Growlers vs. Crowlers
You might also hear about crowlers, which are canned growlers. Crowlers are typically 32 ounces and are sealed with a machine at the brewery. Unlike growlers, crowlers are not reusable but are easier to transport and keep beer fresh for longer periods.
Growlers are a fantastic way to enjoy fresh craft beer outside the brewery. Knowing the sizes and how much beer they hold helps you pick the right growler for your needs, whether it’s a solo tasting or a party with friends.
With options ranging from 32 ounces to 128 ounces, you can choose the perfect size to enjoy your favorite brews fresh and flavorful at home.
Cheers to your next growler adventure!