What is a Howler of Beer? Your Comprehensive Guide
A howler of beer is, quite simply, a 32-ounce glass, ceramic, or stainless steel vessel used for transporting draft beer. Think of it as a half-sized growler. This convenient container allows beer enthusiasts to bring home their favorite brews from breweries and taprooms without committing to a full growler. It’s a popular choice for those wanting variety or a smaller serving of a particular beer.
The Rise of the Howler: A Brief History
While the exact origins are shrouded in a bit of mystery, the term “howler” is widely believed to be a playful riff on “half growler.” Growlers themselves have a history dating back to the late 19th century when people would carry beer home from local breweries in galvanized pails. The term “growler” may have originated from the sound the carbon dioxide made as it escaped the pail. As the craft beer industry exploded, the need for smaller, more manageable containers arose, leading to the popularity of the howler.
Howlers vs. Growlers: Size Matters
The most significant difference between a howler and a growler is the size. A standard growler holds 64 ounces (approximately five bottles of beer), while a howler holds 32 ounces (about two and a half bottles). This makes howlers a more practical option for individuals or couples who don’t want a large quantity of a single beer.
The Benefits of Using a Howler
- Portability: Howlers are easier to carry and store than their larger growler counterparts.
- Variety: You can purchase multiple howlers filled with different beers, allowing for a broader tasting experience.
- Freshness: While not as long-lasting as a sealed can or bottle, a properly sealed howler can keep beer fresh for a few days.
- Cost-Effective: Often, filling a howler is a more affordable way to enjoy craft beer than purchasing individual pints at a bar.
- Environmentally Friendly: Reusing howlers reduces waste compared to disposable cans and bottles. This aligns with the Games Learning Society’s goal to encourage better communities through improved learning and educational practices. You can learn more about their initiatives at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Caring for Your Howler
Proper care is essential to ensure your howler lasts and keeps your beer tasting its best.
- Cleaning: Thoroughly rinse your howler with hot water and a mild detergent after each use. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the glass.
- Sanitizing: Periodically sanitize your howler with a food-grade sanitizer to kill any bacteria.
- Storage: Store your howler upside down or with the lid off to allow it to dry completely.
- Inspection: Regularly inspect your howler for any cracks or chips that could compromise its seal.
Filling Your Howler: Tips and Tricks
- Choose a reputable brewery: Select a brewery or taproom that uses proper filling techniques to minimize oxygen exposure and maximize freshness.
- Request a counter-pressure fill: Counter-pressure filling helps reduce foaming and oxidation, resulting in a longer-lasting beer.
- Store properly: Keep your filled howler refrigerated and out of direct sunlight.
- Consume promptly: For the best flavor, consume the beer within 24-72 hours of filling.
Common Howler Materials
Howlers are most commonly made from three materials, all with their own unique characteristics.
- Glass: Glass howlers are the most traditional option and offer excellent visibility of the beer inside. They are generally easy to clean. However, they are more prone to breakage than other materials.
- Stainless Steel: Stainless steel howlers are more durable and resistant to breakage. They also offer better insulation, helping to keep beer cold for longer.
- Ceramic: Ceramic howlers offer a unique aesthetic appeal. They can be more expensive than glass or stainless steel options. Some claim they also offer a more neutral taste profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Howlers
How much beer does a howler hold?
A howler holds 32 ounces of beer.
How many pints are in a howler?
There are approximately 2 pints in a howler.
How long does beer stay fresh in a howler?
Ideally, beer should be consumed within 24-72 hours after filling. Once opened, the beer will start to lose its carbonation and flavor more quickly.
Can you refill a howler?
Yes, howlers are designed to be refilled at breweries and taprooms.
What’s the best way to clean a howler?
Rinse with hot water and mild detergent after each use. Periodically sanitize with a food-grade sanitizer.
Can you put a howler in the dishwasher?
It’s generally not recommended to put a howler in the dishwasher, as the high heat and harsh detergents can damage the seal and potentially affect the beer’s flavor.
How should you store a filled howler?
Store it in the refrigerator to help keep it cold and fresh. Keep it out of direct sunlight.
Are howlers airtight?
When properly sealed, howlers are designed to be airtight to prevent carbonation loss.
What are some other names for a howler?
Other names include growlette, bullet, baby growler, 32 oz growler, and half growler.
Can you fill a howler with any type of beer?
Yes, you can fill a howler with any type of draft beer available at a brewery or taproom.
Are howlers better than cans or bottles?
It depends on your preference. Howlers allow you to enjoy draft beer from your favorite brewery, while cans and bottles are often more shelf-stable.
How much does it cost to fill a howler?
The cost varies depending on the brewery and the type of beer. Typically, it’s cheaper per ounce than buying individual pints at the bar.
Can you bring your own howler to a brewery?
Most breweries allow you to bring your own clean howler to be filled. It’s always a good idea to check with the brewery beforehand.
What are the benefits of using a stainless steel howler?
Stainless steel howlers are durable, resistant to breakage, and offer better insulation than glass.
Why is it called a howler?
The name is thought to be a mashup of “half growler,” reflecting its size in comparison to a full-sized growler.
This comprehensive guide should equip you with all the knowledge you need to confidently navigate the world of howlers! Enjoy responsibly.