The New York Times reports that craft beer manufacturers are embracing container sizes larger than the traditional bottles and cans - "22-ounce 'bombers,' 750-milliliter wine bottles, even three-liter jeroboams ... The trend toward large bottles is part of what is being called the 'wine-ification' of beer, the push by many brewers to make their product as respectable to pair with braised short ribs as is a nice Chateauneuf-du-Pape, and at a price to match. Bottles sell for as much as $30 in stores and much more on restaurant menus."
But, the Times writes, "they are getting a chilly reception from many drinkers. Internet message boards dedicated to craft beer are replete with complaints that large bottles are too expensive and, thanks to their typically higher alcohol content, a challenge to finish in one sitting. Unlike wine, a beer is nearly impossible to recork.
"The backlash is particularly troublesome for merchants and restaurateurs, who say it can be hard to persuade customers to commit to these big, boozy beers."
But, the Times writes, "they are getting a chilly reception from many drinkers. Internet message boards dedicated to craft beer are replete with complaints that large bottles are too expensive and, thanks to their typically higher alcohol content, a challenge to finish in one sitting. Unlike wine, a beer is nearly impossible to recork.
"The backlash is particularly troublesome for merchants and restaurateurs, who say it can be hard to persuade customers to commit to these big, boozy beers."
- KC's View:
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I have to admit that I'm one of those folks who would tend not to buy larger sized beers. To me, beer and wine are different experiences, and I think the whole "wine-ification" trend is silly. And maybe even a little pretentious.
