The annual Baytowne Wharf Beer Festival is held annually in Destin, Florida during October. The event features Florida breweries such as Destin Brewery, Gulf Coast Brewery and Props Brewery, among others. Thousands of craft beer fans attend each year to get a taste of local brews. Although craft beer festivals are a great way to celebrate the coming of age and sophistication of beer in American culture, they’re also a breeding ground for unchecked drinking. Let’s look at how craft beer culture may be contributing to the epidemic of alcoholism in today’s generation.
The Craft Beer Movement
America’s beer tastes have historically leaned towards the lighter side, with lagers leading the way for the last two centuries. This trend begat American staples like Pabst Blue Ribbon and Budweiser, which still hold a market majority today. However, the craft beer movement has gained ground rapidly the last decade, with sales growing by over 20% in 2014 to just under $20 billion. The American palate is changing, especially among younger generations, as they seek out unique, high-quality craft trends. However, as the craft brew industry grows, the ABV (alcohol by volume) is growing along with it.
Reports by consumer research groups say that beers released with more than 6.5% ABV increased by 319% from 2011 to 2014. The average lager beer maintains an ABV of about 4%, but most craft beers average 5.9% ABV. The heavyweights, with ABV’s over 8%, also saw an upswing. More breweries are releasing high-alcohol beers to catch a piece of the pie. Consumers pay a premium for high-alcohol beers, often as much for a 750-mL bottle as a regular six-pack of craft beer.
Most brewers expect patrons to be responsible consumers of their beers, realizing that craft brews generally pack a weighty punch ounce for ounce. If consumers are buying a 750-mL bottle to split with a friend over dinner (like a bottle of wine) or to bring as a gift to a party, the high-alcohol content is less relevant. However, craft breweries report that many patrons consume these high-ABV beers just as fluidly as regular beers. Unfortunately, the no-neck party ethos has been carried on among the craft brew scene, especially at festivals. Craft brew festivals contribute to the problem as patrons weigh the cost of their tickets against how many beers they find themselves standing in line for. Many seek out the highest ABV beers to get the most bang for their buck, often with consequences.
Hangovers Suck
Craft brewers are aware of the relationship between their brews and the uptick in sophisticated alcoholism among craft consumers. Consequently, brewers are pushing for change in the way patrons view and consume their beverages. Higher-alcohols give brewers flexibility and help add nuance to beers, which low-alcohol beers do not. Craft brewers have started a new social media movement termed, “hangovers suck,” to bring awareness to the epidemic of alcoholism, especially as it takes effect among craft brew consumers. They are encouraging consumers to drink slowly and responsibly by appreciating and contemplating each beer’s flavor—by spending time with it.
If you are planning on attending the Annual Wharf Beer Festival, invariably you will have a chance to try a few high-ABV brews. Gulf Coast Brewery showcases their MindBender Double IPA at 9% ABV as well as their Barrel-Aged Baltic Porter, which comes in at a whopping 12% ABV. Whatever your beverage choice, consume responsibly, knowing that craft beers are meant to be enjoyed and evaluated over time. For more information on alcoholism or alcohol addiction treatment, contact Blu By the Sea, a Destin rehab facility.
No comments:
Post a Comment