Ice beer, once a popular trend in the world of brewing, seems to have faded away in recent years. However, despite the passing of the fad, it’s interesting to note that several brands of ice beer continue to thrive in the market today.
The Survival of Ice Beer Brands
One might assume that ice beer would have become a relic of the past, but that assumption would be far from the truth. Take Bud Ice, for instance, a brand that can still be found on shelves, particularly in its hometown of St. Louis. It’s clear that Budweiser recognizes the enduring appeal of ice beer and continues to cater to its loyal fanbase.
Another major player in the ice beer market is Miller. The company proudly claims to brew millions of barrels of Icehouse, Keystone Ice, and Milwaukee’s Best Ice every year. This staggering production volume indicates that there is still a significant demand for ice beer among consumers, even if it may not gather as much attention as it once did.
The Decline of the Ice Beer Trend
Ice beer rose to prominence in the 1990s, captivating beer enthusiasts with its unique brewing process. To create ice beer, brewers lower the temperature of the beer during fermentation, allowing water to freeze and separate from the alcohol, resulting in a higher alcohol content. This technique was initially met with curiosity and excitement, leading to widespread demand.
However, as with any trend, the popularity of ice beer eventually waned. Craft brewing gained traction, offering a wide range of bold and creative flavors that captured the attention of beer aficionados. The focus shifted from maximizing alcohol content to exploring new and exciting taste profiles.
In addition, the novelty of ice beer’s higher alcohol content began to lose its allure. Consumers started to prioritize quality and taste over sheer potency, leading to a decline in demand for ice beer.
A Niche Market and Loyal Fanbase
While ice beer may not command the same level of attention as it once did, it has found its place in a niche market. Despite the decline in overall popularity, there are still beer enthusiasts who appreciate the unique characteristics and higher alcohol content that ice beer offers.
These dedicated fans, with their loyalty and passion for the beverage, have ensured the survival and continued production of ice beer. It may not be as widely available as some other beer varieties, but for those who seek it out, ice beer remains a beloved choice.
The Future of Ice Beer
While it’s difficult to predict the future of any particular beer style or brand, it seems that ice beer has settled into a comfortable niche. As long as there are consumers who appreciate its distinct qualities, breweries like Budweiser and Miller will likely continue to produce ice beer, albeit in smaller quantities compared to their more mainstream offerings.
Perhaps ice beer will never recapture the widespread popularity it once enjoyed, but its presence in the market serves as a testament to the ever-evolving tastes and preferences of beer drinkers.
In Conclusion
So, to answer the question “Do they still make ice beer?” the answer is a resounding yes. While the ice beer trend may have passed, certain brands such as Bud Ice, Icehouse, Keystone Ice, and Milwaukee’s Best Ice continue to satisfy the cravings of their loyal fanbase. Ice beer may have found its place in a niche market, but its existence proves that even in the ever-changing world of brewing, there is space for diverse tastes and preferences.
