The Start of Commercial Brewing in the USA

The first commercial brewery opened in New York in the 17th century, a time when most beers ranged only around 3% to 4% ABV. Flash forward to St. Louis in the mid-19th century where Anheuser-Busch is changing the nation with Budweiser. Their use of pasteurization and refrigerated roadcars make them the first Lager beer brand nationally distributed. Whiskey, on the other hand, was introduced in America by way of the first Scottish and Irish immigrants. 300 years later, national distilling in the U.S. began. Its production halted during the Prohibition Era in the 1920s, but whiskey quickly regained its rightful spot as one of America's favorite pastimes. Its reputation of class was glamorized in mainstream media like the hit AMC show Mad Men.

Are All Whiskeys and Beers Made the Same Way? Sort Of

Well, each utilizes malted barley differently. The whiskey distilling process begins with a combination of barley, wheat, and corn. It is malted, fermented, and ultimately, distilled into a number of different styles like single malt whiskey, bourbon, blended, and more aficionado favorites. Beer is milled and boiled with hops and barley to create a grain mixture before its fermentation process. There are many ways to highlight different flavors during the brewing process to create exciting, innovative crafted beer. The world of popular craft beer styles is inspiring to any aspiring brewmaster looking to carve their own space within the market.      

Craft beer expands on just how refreshing a beer can be. It’s a great way to treat your taste buds to flavors that are more your style. From milkshake stout IPAs to sour ales with notes of margarita, there’s something for everyone. 

Similarly, a rise in craft whiskey has given the distillers more wiggle room to play around with the classic spirit. Micro-distilleries creating small batch bourbons make whiskey more approachable to the curious still looking for their flavor. Online make your own whiskey services create an exciting, one-of-a-kind experience for whiskey lovers and novices alike. Imagine a blend entirely catered to your palate that is delivered right to your door.

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Beware of Too Much Sugar

This point mainly applies to whiskey. Higher caloric intake is expected when enjoying your drink. There are plenty of delicious, popular low-cal beer options that exist but whiskey requires a watchful eye. Always check the ABV. A typical whiskey’s ABV should be between 40% and 60%. If you find your bottle to be lower in ABV, it is most likely due to sugary, added ingredients. While there is a place for sweetened spirits, especially in cocktails, pure whiskey is better when you’re seeking something to sip on. 

Next time you pour yourself a glass of whiskey or crack open a beer, don’t forget a very important step: listen to your body. There are plenty of tricks to make sure you’re drinking at a healthy pace. Stay hydrated with water while drinking. Follow an excessive night of drinking with a hangover detox drink. If you do find that your alcohol intake is becoming a dependency that is affecting your life, seek counseling options willing to help. It is possible to enjoy beer and whiskey and still maintain a healthy lifestyle.