Specialty & Seasonal Beers
•
Understanding the 24 ounce beer size
What makes a 24-ounce beer unique?
The 24-ounce beer, often called a "tallboy," stands out for its generous serving size. This format is larger than the standard 12-ounce can or bottle, offering a substantial pour that appeals to those who want to enjoy their favorite brew for a longer period. Whether at a backyard barbecue, a sports event, or a casual gathering, this size provides convenience and value, reducing the need for frequent refills.
Why do breweries offer this size?
Breweries and beverage companies introduced the 24-ounce can to meet the demand for a single-serving option that bridges the gap between a regular can and a pitcher. It is especially popular in venues where glass is not allowed, such as stadiums and concerts. The larger format also allows for creative packaging and branding, making it a favorite among collectors and fans of limited-edition releases.
How does it compare to other beer sizes?
While the 12-ounce can remains the industry standard, the 24-ounce option is gaining traction for its practicality and shareability. It is ideal for splitting between friends or savoring solo over a longer period. This size also fits into the broader trend of exploring different beer styles and flavors, as it gives drinkers more to enjoy in one sitting. If you are curious about how beer styles influence the drinking experience, you might enjoy reading about the flavor journey of New England IPA.
Comparing price and value: beer, wine, and seltzer
Weighing cost and value: beer versus wine and seltzer
When you pick up a 24-ounce beer, you’re often thinking about more than just the drink itself—you’re considering value for your money. Compared to wine or hard seltzer, the 24-ounce format offers a unique balance of volume, price, and satisfaction.- Beer: The 24-ounce can or bottle is typically priced to offer more ounces per dollar than smaller beer servings. This makes it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a longer drink without breaking the bank.
- Wine: Single-serve wine options are usually smaller (around 187ml or 6.3 ounces) and can cost as much as, or more than, a 24-ounce beer. The price per ounce is often higher, and the experience is different—wine is sipped, while beer is often enjoyed in a more casual, social setting.
- Seltzer: Hard seltzers have grown in popularity, but their standard cans are 12 or 16 ounces. While multipacks can be cost-effective, a single 24-ounce beer still tends to deliver more beverage for your money in one convenient package.
Popular brands and styles: from lager to malt liquor
What you’ll find in a 24-ounce can
The 24-ounce beer format is a favorite for its convenience and variety. Whether you’re browsing the shelves at your local store or grabbing a cold one at a concert, you’ll notice that this size is offered by a wide range of brands and styles. Here’s what you can expect:
- Lagers: Classic American lagers like Budweiser, Coors, and Miller are staples in the 24-ounce format. These beers are crisp, light, and easy to drink, making them a go-to for many beer lovers.
- Malt liquors: Brands such as Steel Reserve, Colt 45, and Olde English 800 are well-known for their strong, bold flavors and higher alcohol content. The larger can size is popular among those seeking more value and a longer-lasting drink.
- Craft options: More breweries are joining the trend, offering IPAs, stouts, and even fruit-infused beers in 24-ounce cans. This gives fans of craft beer a chance to enjoy their favorites in a shareable or extended format.
- Flavored and specialty beers: The 24-ounce size is also used for unique blends, such as tea-infused lagers or fruit-forward brews. For example, the Anheuser-Busch Dragon Fruit Peach Lager brings a refreshing twist to the larger can experience.
With so many choices, the 24-ounce beer can caters to every taste, from those who prefer a classic lager to fans of bold, innovative flavors. This variety is a big part of why the format remains so popular in social settings and beyond.
How 24 ounce beer fits into social moments
Sharing moments with a 24-ounce beer
The 24-ounce beer has carved out a unique place in social gatherings. Its generous size makes it ideal for occasions where you want to linger and enjoy the company of friends, whether at a backyard barbecue, a tailgate party, or a casual evening at home. Unlike smaller cans or bottles, a 24-ounce beer encourages a relaxed pace, allowing you to savor your drink while engaging in conversation or watching a game.
- Perfect for sharing: While many enjoy a 24-ounce beer solo, it’s also great for splitting between two people, especially when trying a new style or flavor.
- Less frequent refills: The larger size means fewer trips to the fridge or cooler, keeping you present in the moment.
- Fits various settings: From music festivals to picnics, the 24-ounce can is portable and convenient, fitting easily into most cup holders and coolers.
In many ways, the 24-ounce beer bridges the gap between single-serve convenience and the communal spirit of sharing a pitcher. It’s a format that adapts to your social needs, making it a popular choice for those who value both practicality and enjoyment in their beer experience.
Mixing it up: beer, fruit, tea, and more
Creative blends for a bigger pour
The 24-ounce beer size isn’t just about quantity—it’s a canvas for creativity. With more beer to work with, you can experiment with mixing flavors and styles, turning a simple drink into something unique and refreshing. Here are some ideas to elevate your next 24-ounce beer:
- Beer and fruit: Add a splash of orange juice to a wheat beer for a citrusy twist, or drop in fresh berries for a subtle sweetness. This works especially well with lighter lagers and ales.
- Beer and tea: Combine a crisp lager with iced tea for a thirst-quenching shandy. Herbal teas can add floral or spicy notes, making each sip more interesting.
- Beer cocktails: Use your 24-ounce can as the base for classic beer cocktails like the michelada (beer, lime juice, hot sauce, and spices) or a beer margarita. The larger volume means you can share—or simply enjoy a longer-lasting drink.
- Layered flavors: Try pouring half of a dark stout and topping it with a lighter ale for a visually striking and flavorful black-and-tan. The bigger can gives you plenty of room to play with proportions.
These creative mixes can make your 24-ounce beer the centerpiece of any gathering, whether you’re relaxing at home or sharing with friends. If you’re curious about which beer styles work best for mixing, check out the popular brands and styles mentioned earlier in this article for inspiration.
