When it comes to enjoying a refreshing beer, many of us prefer the convenience of having it delivered straight to our doorstep. One option that has gained popularity in recent years is the use of beer growlers. These large, reusable containers allow us to transport our favorite craft brews from local breweries or even fill them up at a taproom. But one burning question remains: do beer growlers go flat?
The answer to this question lies in the nature of carbonation. See, beer gets its delightful fizziness from carbon dioxide, which is carefully injected into the liquid during the brewing process. Over time, this carbonation can dissipate, leading to a flat and less enticing drinking experience.
However, the rate at which a beer growler goes flat largely depends on a couple of factors: how it is stored and when it is opened. Let’s delve into these factors further to get a better understanding.
The Importance of Proper Storage
Proper storage plays a crucial role in maintaining the carbonation of beer in a growler. To keep it as fresh and fizzy as possible, it is advisable to store the growler in a cool and dark place, such as a refrigerator. This helps to slow down the carbonation loss caused by temperature fluctuations. It is also important to keep the growler upright to minimize agitation that can accelerate carbonation loss.
Once opened, the beer can stay fresh for about 36 hours before it goes flat. This timeframe may vary depending on the type of beer and how much carbonation it had initially. It’s worth noting that some breweries even recommend consuming the beer within 24 hours for the best tasting experience.
The Impact of Opening a Growler
When you crack open a beer growler, the carbonation begins to escape. The more you open it, the more carbonation will be lost. That’s why it’s essential to plan your consumption accordingly once the seal has been broken. While it may be tempting to savor the beer over a few days, you’re more likely to encounter a flat beverage if you stretch it out too long.
Additionally, how you pour the beer can also influence the carbonation levels. A vigorous pour with a lot of splashing can cause the carbon dioxide to quickly escape, leaving you with a less fizzy final product.
Reviving Flat Beer
If you find yourself with a growler of beer that has gone flat, fear not! There are a few tricks you can try to revive its carbonation. One technique is to gently shake the growler to release some of the remaining carbon dioxide. Be careful not to go overboard, as excessive shaking can lead to an overly foamy pour.
Another method is to use a carbonation cap, a device that allows you to add carbon dioxide back into the beer. By injecting carbonation directly into the growler, you can rejuvenate the fizziness to some extent.
Conclusion
So, do beer growlers go flat? The short answer is yes, but the rate at which they go flat can be influenced by proper storage and careful handling. To maximize your enjoyment and ensure the beer stays carbonated, store the growler properly, consume it within the recommended timeframe, and pour it gently. And if you do end up with a flat beer, don’t fret; there are strategies to revive its carbonation. Now, go forth and enjoy your growler of delicious brew!
