Yes, Blue Moon, a Belgian-style wheat beer, was created by Coors and has been one of the company’s products since 1995. But the beer’s story is much more interesting than that! It all started in 1995, in the basement of Coors Field.
The Birth of Blue Moon
Blue Moon was the brainchild of Keith Villa, a brewer working for Coors at the time. Inspired by his travels to Belgium and his passion for brewing unique and flavorful beers, Villa set out to create something different. He aimed to craft a Belgian-style wheat beer that would stand out from the mainstream options available.
A Unique Brewing Process
What makes Blue Moon distinct is its brewing process. It is brewed with a blend of malted barley, wheat, and oats, combined with a special strain of wheat beer yeast. This specific yeast gives the beer its signature aroma and flavor profile.
An Unfiltered and Spiced Beer
Blue Moon is unfiltered, meaning it retains a cloudy appearance and a slightly heavier mouthfeel compared to filtered beers. It also boasts a subtle spiciness, thanks to the addition of coriander and orange peel during the brewing process. These botanical elements add depth and complexity to the beer’s taste.
A Refreshing and Versatile Beer
Blue Moon has gained popularity for its approachable and refreshing nature. With its smooth, crisp taste and balanced flavor, it appeals to both beer connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. It is often served with a slice of orange, which enhances the citrus notes and provides an extra touch of freshness.
Blue Moon and Coors: A Strong Partnership
While Blue Moon is a distinct brand in its own right, it is important to note that it operates under the umbrella of the Coors Brewing Company. This partnership has allowed Blue Moon to benefit from Coors’ extensive distribution network and marketing resources, helping it reach a wider audience.
Blue Moon’s Impact on the Craft Beer Movement
Blue Moon’s success has had a significant impact on the craft beer movement. It introduced many drinkers to the world of flavorful, specialty beers, paving the way for the subsequent explosion of craft breweries and their innovative creations. Blue Moon can be seen as a gateway beer, enticing people to explore beyond the traditional mainstream options.
Other Brews by Coors
While Blue Moon may be one of Coors’ most well-known creations, the company produces a diverse range of beers, including the classic Coors Banquet, Coors Light, and Keystone Light. Each of these beers has its unique characteristics and appeals to different tastes and preferences.
Blue Moon’s Continued Evolution
Over the years, Blue Moon has continued to innovate and expand its offerings. Today, in addition to the iconic Blue Moon Belgian White, the brand offers variations such as Blue Moon Mango Wheat, Blue Moon LightSky, and seasonal releases like Blue Moon Summer Honey Wheat. This constant evolution ensures that Blue Moon remains relevant and intriguing to beer enthusiasts.
Celebrating the Unique Taste of Blue Moon
Blue Moon’s distinctive flavor has garnered a dedicated following. It is a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship that went into its creation. Whether enjoyed at a backyard barbecue, a sports event, or a cozy bar, Blue Moon is a beer that brings people together, encouraging them to savor the moment and appreciate the unique taste.
Wrapping Up
So, to answer the question “Are Coors and Blue Moon the same?”, the answer is yes and no. While Blue Moon is a product of Coors, it has its own unique characteristics and has made a significant impact on the craft beer scene. It stands as a testament to the passion and ingenuity of its creator, Keith Villa, and the ongoing commitment to quality and innovation by Coors Brewing Company.
