One of my favorite parts of finding new craft beer to try is simple: a cool can. Nothing screams "TRY ME!" like a can that grabs your attention from a shelf. Sometimes it can be a crazy design, other times it can be a clever name. Many times, especially when it comes to a local brewer, a can has the ability to give you some history and insight to a brewery's namesake or mission. Let's go through a few of my favorites.
81 Artisan Brewery: Hoptopuss, Vienna Pale Ale
West Sussex, United Kingdom
This can grabbed my attention immediately due to my favorite thing: a good pun. The design includes a sea explorer that is fighting off a hops flower-octopus hybrid creature. What is more clever than that?
If the punny name wasn't enough to draw you in, this can comes with a great color palette and artwork. The blue sea background with the green highlights of the creature allows the can to jump out at you.
A good name with imagery to match it is an easy way to invite someone in to try your creation.
Great Lakes Brewing Co.: Burning River, Pale Ale
Cleveland, Ohio
This can holds a spot at the top of my "favorites" list because of its incredible artwork. The imagery pays homage to the history of the burning of the Cuyahoga River, which caught fire 13 times between 1868 and 1969.
While the original Burning River Pale Ale was only sold in bottles with a tamer design, the can's illustrator, Sam Hadley, brought the heat and intensity in this new depiction of historic events. With the city skyline and detailed flames, it is easy to see why this can is captivating to the eye.
Golden Road Brewing: Mango Cart, Wheat Ale
Los Angeles, California
While some cans are able to draw someone in with a clever name or sophisticated design, others can simply grab one's attention by creating an aesthetic and emotion. There are many cans out there that can create an atmosphere that takes the imagination to a completely different time or place.
With Golden Road Brewing's "Mango Cart," the can immediately transports the mind to a boardwalk in sunny Los Angeles. Nothing goes better with a hot sunny day than the rejuvenating taste of fresh fruit. With the simple imagery and welcoming colors, it is not hard to visualize walking the Los Angeles beaches while sipping on a cold can of Mango Cart.
There are many ways to make a beer stand out to a consumer. I encourage you to try a local brewery near you and see which beer, or can, catches your eye first. Was it the design of a can, the name of a beer or just the fact that a sip of it takes you back to a moment in time? All of these are great reasons to expand your horizon and support those who allow us to experience their passionate creations!
Add comment
Comments
I love this fun and interesting way to look at new beers and brewers. I can’t wait to see what you review next.